A review of thermionic energy conversion

A brief description will be given of a thermionic converter and its operation. It is a high temperature heat engine with the "cold" temperature about 1000°K. Because of the high reject heat temperature thermionic converters appear attractive for static electric generators for space and as topping devices for steam turbines in central station nuclear power plants. To indicate the present state of development, a review will be given of the International Conference on Thermionic Electric Power Generation held in London, Sept. 20-24.