反应堆生产放射性同位素热源材料及其应用

Production of Radioisotope Thermal Fuel by Reactor and Its Application

摘要: 可用于深空探测等领域的放射性同位素温差发电器利用半导体热电元件直接将放射性同位素的衰变热转化为电能。目前所使用的热源材料——放射性同位素²³⁸Pu具有半衰期适中、热功率密度较高、α衰变易于辐射防护等特点，已获得较为广泛的应用。本文简要介绍利用反应堆生产²³⁸Pu的途径以及分离、纯化过程。

Abstract: The radioisotope thermoelectric generator which is employed in deep space exploration, converts heat from the natural decay of radioisotope materials into electrical power directly. The ²³⁸Pu radioisotopic fuel has potentials at decay period, specific thermal power and radiation protection, so it is widely adopted in space application. This paper outlines the production of ²³⁸Pu and its separation and purification process.