Basic study on water decomposition using Stirling engine generator

Abstract

For Japanese space developments, the only available energy source for long-term space activity is solar energy. On the other hand, a life support system for manned space activity contains physical or/and chemical reactors, and consumes immense quantities of energy. The most of required energy for a life support system is thermal energy to heat reactors. Therefore, it is necessary to utilize solar energy as thermal energy. A conceptual model of a life support system was designed. This is a self-contained partially circulated life support system, called the SEPAL. The most significant feature of the SEPAL is that the system includes an energy supply subsystem. Based on this concept, an oxygen and hydrogen production subsystem using solar thermal energy as an energy source has been developed in order to demonstrate the advantages of solar thermal energy utilization. This system composed of a Stirling engine generator and a water electrolysis system using PEM. This paper describes test results of the Stirling engine generators. In addition, the significant design features and preliminary test results of the oxygen and hydrogen production system.