Abstract: The present application provides configurations, components, assemblies and methods for sealing cells of sodium-based thermal batteries, such as NaMx cells. In some embodiments the cells may include an integrated bridge member hermetically sealed to an electrically conductive case and a ceramic collar of the cell to hermetically seal an anodic chamber of the cell. In some embodiments the cells may include the ceramic collar hermetically sealed to an electrolyte separator tube of the cell to hermetically seal the anodic chamber of the cell. In some embodiments the anodic chamber may be defined, at least in part, by the case, integrated bridge member, ceramic collar and electrolyte separator tube. In some embodiments the cells may include a current collector hermetically sealed to the ceramic collar, and a cap member hermetically sealed to the current collector tube to hermetically seal a cathodic chamber of the cell.

Abstract: Systems and methods for providing the assembly electrochemical cells in neutral materials are described. Components can be eliminated from traditional electrochemical cell designs in this fashion. Embodiments of assemblies include a module block formed of a neutral material including a plurality of cell cavities, the cell cavities having at least an open top end. Each of the plurality of cell cavities is configured as a cell case for an electrochemical cell. The cavities can be provided a feed-through assembly, or have an electrochemical cell assembled therein.

Abstract: The present application provides configurations, components, assemblies and methods for sealing cells of sodium-based thermal batteries, such as NaMx cells. In some embodiments the cells may include an integrated bridge member hermetically sealed to an electrically conductive case and a ceramic collar of the cell to hermetically seal an anodic chamber of the cell. In some embodiments the cells may include the ceramic collar hermetically sealed to an electrolyte separator tube of the cell to hermetically seal the anodic chamber of the cell. In some embodiments the anodic chamber may be defined, at least in part, by the case, integrated bridge member, ceramic collar and electrolyte separator tube. In some embodiments the cells may include a current collector hermetically sealed to the ceramic collar, and a cap member hermetically sealed to the current collector tube to hermetically seal a cathodic chamber of the cell.

Abstract: The present invention provides an electrically conductive adhesive composition having cured low modulus elastomer and metallurgically-bonded micron-sized metal particles and nano-sized metal particles. The low modulus elastomer provides the mechanical robustness and reliability by relieving the stresses generated; and the metallurgically-bonded micron-sized metal particles and nano-sized metal particles provide a continuous conducting path with minimized interface resistance. Addition of nano-sized metal particles lowers the fusion temperature and allows the metallurgical-bonding to occur at manageable temperatures.

Abstract: A method for mitigating stress corrosion cracking of a component exposed to a high temperature water in a high temperature water system is provided. The method comprises the steps of lowering corrosion potential conditions to a desired low corrosion potential in the high temperature water environment; and introducing a first material comprising zinc into the high temperature water environment, such that the desired low corrosion potential facilitates transport of the first material into cracks in a structure communicative with the high temperature water environment.

Abstract: A nanocomposite comprising a plurality of nanoparticles dispersed in a metallic alloy matrix, and a structural component formed from such a nanocomposite. The metallic matrix comprises at least one of a nickel-based alloy and an iron-based alloy. The nanocomposite contains a higher volume fraction of nanoparticle dispersoids than those presently available. The structural component include those used in hot gas path assemblies, such as steam turbines, gas turbines, and aircraft turbine. A method of making such nanocomposites is also disclosed.