The Johnson Electric Heat Pipe (JEHP) combines the thermal conversion capability of a heat engine and the heat transport capabilities of a heat pipe into a
single versatile device. The device employs a binary working fluid, which is comprised of hydrogen in combination with a two-phase fluid. The JEHP utilizes
a proton conductive membrane (PCM) configured between two electrodes to form a Membrane Electrode Assembly (MEA). In the heat pump mode, the MEA is used to
pump hydrogen in such a way as to create a partial pressure differential within the vapors of the binary working fluid. The hydrogen partial pressure
differential drives the secondary working fluid to condense at the high temperature end of the heat pipe and evaporate at the low temperature end.
Latent heat consumed at the low temperature end is transported and released at the high temperature for a heat pump effect. In the power generation
configuration, liquid vaporized at the high temperature end consumes latent heat and creates a low hydrogen partial pressure. The vapor is condensed
at the low temperature end creating a high hydrogen partial pressure and releasing the latent heat. The resulting partial pressure differential is
applied across the MEA to generate electrical power. The electric heat pipe can be configured in length and shape, including bends, as needed to meet
the requirements of a given application. Several, proof of concept, component level experiments have been conducted to establish its feasibility.
Extensive investigations into suitable proton conductive materials have been performed.
