Mini-PulPS: Miniaturized Pulsed Power Systems for Mission Critical Applications

Default ARPA-E Project Image

Program:
OPEN 2021
Award:
$965,028
Location:
Houston, Texas
Status:
ACTIVE
Project Term:
04/27/2022 - 04/26/2025
Website:

Technology Description:

The University of Houston aims to develop Miniaturized Pulsed Power System (Mini-PulPS) architectures to improve the power density (with 10-X reduction in capacitor size) and the life of converters used in pulsed power supplies. The University of Houston will perform multi-disciplinary research with Harvard University and Schlumberger-Doll Research Center for high- and low-power NMR applications. These technologies will improve the power converter system efficiency and reliability and reduce the risks of equipment or formation failures. If successful, Mini-PulPS will lead to disruptive adoption in oil and gas as well as healthcare applications in the near term and geothermal systems in the long term, for characterization of sub-surface formations and fluids.

Potential Impact:

The University of Houston will develop Mini-PulPS architectures, which will advance pulsed power applications and advance converter capability toward the miniaturization necessary for transitioning into mobile or handheld platforms.

Security:

Mini-PulPS will allow 1000 hours of reliable operation using gallium nitride (GaN) devices in high-temperature downhole-logging environments.

Environment:

Although developed for oil and gas exploration, Mini-PulPS has potential for use in geothermal exploration and production. A recent example of NMR well-logging for geothermal well placement highlighted the importance of advanced subsurface measurements for the growing renewable energy sector.

Economy:

Mini-PulPS will enhance U.S. leadership in energy and NMR markets worth >U.S. $6B, covering MRI systems, sub-surface characterization, lab use, and other applications.

Contact

ARPA-E Program Director:
Dr. Olga Spahn
Project Contact:
Dr. Harish Krishnamoorthy
Press and General Inquiries Email:
ARPA-E-Comms@hq.doe.gov
Project Contact Email:
hskrishn@uh.edu

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Release Date:
02/11/2021