Irreversible, normally closed, solid-state thermal switch

Abstract

An irreversible, normally closed, solid-state thermal switch is comprised of a rare-earth metal hydride thin film that can be integrated to an on-board microheater for switch actuation. The active metal hydride switch material undergoes a thermodynamically stable reduction-oxidation (REDOX) reaction leading to a multi-decade change in resistance. The switched state is maintained when the device is cooled back to room temperature, meaning the switch is irreversible and suitable as a thermal fuse. The nature of the REDOX-based approach to thermal switching is also suitable for passive operation in thermal environments.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.