Project description
Pyroelectric materials for energy harvesting in space
Can we discover new energy sources in space? Unlike solar panels, which need continuous sunlight, pyroelectric energy harvesters convert thermal variations into electricity, providing an alternative energy solution for use in space. The ERC-funded CUBE_SAT_PYRO project aims to explore pyroelectric materials as alternatives to photovoltaic panels for energy generation in space. It will mount pyroelectric modules on a CubeSat launched into low Earth orbit to measure energy harvesting in real-time. The goal is to demonstrate a power density of 1 W/kg and an energy density of 200 J/kg, making pyroelectric harvesting a viable option for space missions. The project will also develop necessary technology and strategies for long-term reliability, including radiation resistance, while seeking partnerships post-launch.
Objective
Can we find new sources of energy in space? This project aims to explore pyroelectric materials as an alternative or complement to photovoltaic panels. Unlike solar panels, which require continuous sunlight, pyroelectric energy harvesters convert thermal variations into electricity, offering an alternative energy solution in space.
For the first time, this study will assess the potential of pyroelectric energy harvesters directly in space. Pyroelectric modules will be selected, prepared, mounted on a cube satellite, and launched in space in low earth orbit. The harvested energy will be measured in situ in space. The measurement data will be sent from the satellite and collected via a ground station built in our premises. The objective of this project is to show that this pyroelectric element can generate an electric energy density of 200 J/kg per thermal cycle and a continuous power density of 1 W/kg, which would show that pyroelectric energy harvesting is a convincing solution to produce electric energy in space.
The project is structured in five work packages addressing the key scientific and technological challenges but also focusing on a strong exploitation plan. The first work package is about pyroelectric materials. The harvesting modules and their associated electronics will be developed in the second one, both occurring before launch. Post-launch, the third work package will analyse thermal cycling behaviour in space, whereas the fourth one will evaluate long-term reliability, notably assessing radiation effect on pyroelectric harvesters for several months. Finally, the last work package is dedicated to project management and exploitation strategies, in which we will look for partners after the intellectual property is secured.
By demonstrating the feasibility of pyroelectric energy harvesting in space, this project will offer a new electric power source for satellites and space missions, broadening the possibilities for future space exploration.
Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)
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CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
- engineering and technology environmental engineering energy and fuels renewable energy solar energy
- engineering and technology mechanical engineering vehicle engineering aerospace engineering satellite technology
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Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.1.1 - European Research Council (ERC)
MAIN PROGRAMME
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Topic(s)
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Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
HORIZON-ERC-POC - HORIZON ERC Proof of Concept Grants
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Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) ERC-2025-POC
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Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.
4362 Esch Sur Alzette
Luxembourg
The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.