Mesodyne

Mesodyne is an engineering and manufacturing company developing methods of electricity generation, centered on its patented LightCell technology. The LightCell is a portable, solid-state power generator that converts liquid or gaseous fuel into electricity via light: fuel powers a microcombustor that heats a photonic-crystal material engineered to emit light at specific wavelengths, which photovoltaic cells then convert into DC electricity. The design has no moving parts and is marketed as quiet, vibration-free, odorless, and low in thermal signature, with no toxins in the exhaust due to high-temperature combustion, allowing use in enclosed spaces.

Published specifications under development list continuous maximum power of 100-300 W with user-selectable DC output (12, 24 or 28 volts), dimensions of 15 x 6 x 6 inches, dry weight under 10 lbs, an estimated operating range of -60°C to +60°C, and an estimated 10,000-hour lifespan based on component testing, with a modular design permitting replacement of key components. Stated fuel consumption is 120 grams/hour on propane and 170 mL/hour on JP-8. Compatible fuels include hydrogen, propane, gasoline, diesel and jet fuel. Units can be combined into larger modules for higher power output.

Target applications include unmanned aerial systems (the company states the LightCell would enable a fixed-wing UAS to fly more than 24 hours without refueling), dismounted soldiers (claimed load reduction of up to 75% versus carried batteries), unmanned surface vessels (claimed 4-8x endurance versus batteries), and remote industrial or scientific instrumentation where solar is impractical. The company also positions the product as an off-grid tactical generator and for charging communications equipment such as Starlink terminals, computers and phones.