Nuclear Alternative for RTG Experiment?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the feasibility of using solar collectors as an alternative heat source for Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators (RTGs) in experiments. The participant proposes that a solar collector could potentially reach temperatures comparable to the 1050°F produced by traditional RTGs. They also seek advice on identifying cost-effective metals suitable for thermocouple construction, emphasizing the need for readily available materials from hardware stores.

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  • Understanding of thermoelectric principles
  • Familiarity with solar collector technology
  • Knowledge of thermocouple materials and their properties
  • Basic skills in experimental design and setup
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  • Research solar collector designs and their efficiency ratings
  • Investigate thermoelectric materials suitable for high-temperature applications
  • Explore the construction and calibration of thermocouples using common metals
  • Study the principles of heat transfer in thermoelectric systems
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Researchers, hobbyists, and engineers interested in alternative energy solutions, thermoelectric applications, and experimental setups involving solar energy and thermocouples.

Arctic Fox
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So, I’ve been thinking that the possibility of obtaining any usable amount of fuel for an RTG experiment is impossible while I’m still within the US borders...

Fine!

I just got another idea this afternoon. Instead of using the heat from the radioactive fuel, how about using the heat from a solar collector?

http://www.livescience.com/technology/041115_solar_dish.html

I’m pretty sure I could compete with the 1050° temp from an actual RTG by building something like this (for the moment).

Comments?
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
How about someone doing the most basic thing like identifying the best cheap metals for making thermocouples. Hopefully something found at the hardware store. I got a 55 gallon drum full of wood on fire here.
 

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