Project Title:

Modular Chemical-Mechanical Heat Pump for Spacecraft Thermal Bus Applications

09.07-7003
Modular Chemical-Mechanical Heat Pump for Spacecraft Thermal Bus Applications
Mainstream Engineering Corp.
200 Yellow Place
Rockledge, F

32955
Robert P.
Scaringe
(407-631-3550)
GSFC

Abstract:

The intent of this project is to demonstrate an innovative, high-efficiency, high-reliability
heat pump for spacecraft heat-rejection applications. This heat pump would allow
equipment to operate at a temperature close to but different from the saturation
temperature of a two-phase thermal bus. The proposed heat pump applies a hybrid,
chemical-mechanical concept and is applicable to either thermally driven or electrically
driven applications. As a starting point, the electrically driven design has been
proposed for this project. Previous efforts by the company have identified a series
of working fluids that are superior to existing working fluids in terms of thermodynamic
performance and stability. Phase I will address the design of this innovative heat
pump. The subsequent Phase II effort will address the final design, construction,
and testing (in normal gravity and reduced gravity) of this innovative, modular,
chemical-mechanical heat pump.

Potential Commercial Application:

Potential Commercial Applications:  (None suggested by the company.)