Tech Company Charging into Soldier Power

Mesodyne, a Massachusetts-based company, is developing a thermal photovoltaic power generator known as the LightCell generator, designed to extend mission duration during expeditionary operations. The compact generator, roughly the size of a loaf of bread and weighing around eight pounds, offers significantly higher power output per pound compared to current tactical batteries. It utilizes a nano-engineered, photonic crystal material heated to incandescence through a micro combustor that can burn various fuels, emitting infrared radiation converted into high-efficiency direct current power by low bandgap photovoltaic cells. This innovation could reduce the weight carried by operators or extend mission durations by leveraging the high energy density of fuel. Mesodyne is also exploring applications for Group 2 drones, potentially extending their flight times.

Link to the full article: https://www.nationaldefensemagazine.org/articles/2023/10/16/tech-company-charging-into-soldier-power