Theoretical design of a direct-collection nuclear cell integrated with a thermoelectricity module

In all types of nuclear battery, the structure of parallel plate direct-collection nuclear cell (DCC) is the simplest. However, this kind of DCC has low energy conversion efficiency, because a considerable part of the charged particles emitted by the radioisotope move reversely into the emitter electrode, producing just waste heat. A novel structure of nuclear battery, which integrates thermoelectric conversion device with the DCC, is designed to make use of the waste heat. In this case, the waste heat generated in DCC can be utilized, and the creative structure of composite nuclear battery can increase about 1% efficiency of DCC. (authors)