No abstract

No abstract

No abstract

As global consumption of energy continues to increase at an exponential rate, the need to find technologies that can help reduce this rate of consumption, particularly in passenger vehicles, is imperative. This paper provides a progress report on the BSST-led US Department of Energy-sponsored automotive thermoelectric waste heat recovery project, which has transitioned from phase 3 and is completing phase 4. Thermoelectric generator (TEG) development will be discussed, including modeling and thermal cycling of subassemblies. The design includes the division of the TEG into different temperature zones, where the subassembly materials and aspect ratios are optimized to match the temperature gradients for the particular zone. Test results for a phase 3 quarter-scale device of the phase 4 high-temperature TEG will be discussed, where power outputs of up to 125 W were achieved on a 600°C hot-air test bench. The design of the TEG, which uses high-powerdensity segmented thermoelectric elements, has evolved from a planar design in phase 3 to a cylindrical design in phase 4. The culmination of phase 4 includes testing of the generator on a dynamometer at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory with a high-performance production engine.

No abstract

This paper describes the development of a modeling tool used for design and analysis of the building blocks of thermoelectric generators (TEGs). The described model captures the performance of a thermoelectric couple at varying loads and temperatures. The model includes the effects of interfacial resistances and other thermal losses. Validation experiments have been conducted, and the results are discussed. Once validated, the model was then used to design a 10% efficient segmented TEG, which was then built and tested. With this effective design tool along with improving thermoelectric material performance, a 14% efficient TEG is within reach.

This paper describes the development of a high-power-density thermoelectric generator (TEG) with a power output of greater than 100 W. Previous papers have described the development of the generator made of high-power-density TE couples. In this discussion, initial thermal cycling results for the TE couples are described. The building blocks are then scaled and integrated into a complete TEG. The design, build, and test of the TEG are discussed. The highpower-density design produces power at greater than 250 W/L and 80 W/kg. Test results are shown for varying flow rates, temperatures, and electrical loads.

No abstract