Radiation Hardening of Electron Voltaic Cells

This paper contains a report of the performance of several silicon electron-voltaic cells designed for extended life under Sr90-Y90 radiation. Measurements of short circuit current are reported for electron fluence levels up to 1017 e/cm2. Also, an approximate calculation of initial open circuit voltage, short circuit current, and efficiency, is provided for comparison purposes. The essential result of the study is that the silicon electron-vol taic cell, using a Sr90-Y90 source of electrons, can be fabricated to deliver 2 kWh/kg with a life of 3000 hours and with an efficiency of 6-7 percent.