Many thermal energy conversion devices, such as thermoelectric, AMTEC and Stirling converters developed for space applications, also have terrestrial uses. Rather than use radioisotopes as a heat, a combustion flame can be used. Con sider a converter producing 100 W(e) with a 15% thermal to electric conversion efficiency designed to produce power continuously for one year.
(a) What mass of 238 Pu would be needed?
(b) What mass of a petroleum-based fuel, with density 0.9 g/cm3 and a heat of combustion of 40 l\f.J/L, would be needed?