Modeling the Building Blocks of a 10% Efficient Segmented Thermoelectric Power Generator

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.

Heat Exchangers for Thermoelectric Devices

“…Therefore, efficiencies of thermoelectric modules and thermoelectric devices in general, designed for either generation or refrigeration purposes, depend to a great extent on the thermal resistances of the heat exchangers installed at either side of the modules. Several computational models have been developed (Stockholm & Stockholm, 1992;Astrain et al, , 2010Crane & Bell, 2006;Crane et al, 2009) to study the whole thermoelectric system, including the heat exchangers. These models serve as study and design tools for both thermoelectric refrigeration and generation devices.…”

Systematic Studies on Building the High Output Thermoelectric Power Generation

“…The total power output equals the total heat input multiplied by the efficiency. In the later section(s), authors will show that the properties of most TE semiconductors depend upon temperature, e.g., a single TE material typically operates well in about a couple of hundred degrees of temperature window [10]. There are numerous applications for TEPG ranging from the bio-thermoelectric to the deep-space power supplies.…”

Explore Novel Renewable Energy Generation via Applications of Thermoelectric Technology

“…The total power output equals to the total heat input multiplied by the efficiency. In the later section(s), authors will show that the properties of most TE semiconductors depend upon temperature, e.g., a single TE material typically operates well in about a couple of hundred degrees of temperature window (Crane, Kossakovski, & Bell, 2009). …”