CREARE LLC — Department of Defense SBIR Phase II: N111-071

Description

Hydrothermal vents emit large amounts of hot water, which has the potential to produce electric power. This type of power source can enable remote sea sensors and communication networks, recharge unmanned underwater vehicles, and facilitate a variety of other deep sea activities. Developing a power system for this application is challenging because the environment is extremely corrosive, mineral precipitation and biological activity can obstruct critical surfaces, and the system must operate reliably for long time periods without maintenance. In response, we are developing a turbo-Rankine power system that is optimized for hydrothermal vents. Our system consists of discrete components that are packaged to fit optimally within a simple containment structure and around adjacent features and subsystems. Continuous fluid flow within the system will communicate directly with the heat source and heat rejection environment, without intermediate flow loops or large thermal structures. During prior SBIR Phase I and Phase II projects, we optimized design trades, completed a preliminary design, conducted laboratory tests, and demonstrated long-term heat extraction from hydrothermal vent flow. We now propose to fabricate and test complete power systems.