The performance of Segmented Thermoelectric Unicouples (STUs) for terrestrial energy conversion applications is optimized both for maximizing efficiency and electrical power density. The STUs operate at cold side temperature of 298 K and hot side temperatures of 873 K, 773 K and 673 K. The composition, number, and length of the segments in the n-and p-legs change with the hot side temperature. However, the number of segments in the STUs optimized for maximum power density is generally fewer than in those optimized for maximum efficiency. For a hot side temperature of 873 K, assuming zero contact resistance, the optimized STU for maximum efficiency operates at a peak efficiency of 15% and peak electrical power of 0.34 We, versus only 13% and 0.48 We, respectively, when optimized for maximum electric power density. When the contact resistance per leg increases to 150-@-cm*, the peak efficiencies decrease to 13.3% and 10.9%, respectively.
IntroductionThermoelectric (TE) converters and coolers are being widely used in many recreational, industrial, military, and space applications. In the last four decades, TE converters have been used in more than 40 spacecrafts, mostly for planetary exploration missions powered by Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators (RTGs). Low and intermediate temperature thermoelectric converters are being used or considered for waste heat recovery in light and heavy-duty trucks and fuel-efficient vehicles to satisfy the federal standards for lower emission. Io these applications, the source temperature could be 573-873 K. Microhnilliwatts RTGs for bio-medical applications such as pacemakers and nerve or muscle stimulation, employ TE converters. For tens to hundreds of kilowatts electric power, TE generators have been