Performance of π-shaped thermoelectric generator using novel p-type ZrMnZ and n-type Bi2Te3/SiGe alloys for renewable and sustainable energy applications
K. Klinton Brito, B. Yashwanth, M. Srinivasan, J. Jai Muthukumaran
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Energy emitted in the form of heat from various sources can be recovered and converted into usable electricity using thermoelectric generators (TEGs). In this study, the efficiency of a π-shaped thermoelectric module composed of p-type ZrMnZ (Z = In, Pb, Bi) legs and n-type Bi2Te3/SiGe alloys were investigated using MATLAB simulation software. The module efficiency was analyzed by varying the p-type legs (ZrMnIn, ZrMnPb, and ZrMnBi), n-type legs (Bi2Te3 and SiGe), and electrode materials (Al, Cu, and Ni), while keeping the ceramic plates (Al2O3) constant. The thermoelectric properties of the ZrMnZ alloys were evaluated using the WIEN2k code. Subsequently, the thermoelectric module was constructed, and its performance was simulated in MATLAB. The results reveal that the highest efficiency was achieved for the TEG comprising p-type ZrMnBi and n-type SiGe legs with Cu electrodes. Furthermore, it is observed that varying the leg height and incorporating suitable dopants can further enhance the device efficiency. Therefore, this study demonstrates that the half-Heusler alloys ZrMnIn, ZrMnPb, and ZrMnBi are promising candidates for efficient thermoelectric energy conversion applications.
期刊介绍：
Energy is the single most valuable resource for human activity and the basis for all human progress. Materials play a key role in enabling technologies that can offer promising solutions to achieve renewable and sustainable energy pathways for the future.
Materials for Renewable and Sustainable Energy has been established to be the world''s foremost interdisciplinary forum for publication of research on all aspects of the study of materials for the deployment of renewable and sustainable energy technologies. The journal covers experimental and theoretical aspects of materials and prototype devices for sustainable energy conversion, storage, and saving, together with materials needed for renewable fuel production. It publishes reviews, original research articles, rapid communications, and perspectives. All manuscripts are peer-reviewed for scientific quality.
Topics include:
1. MATERIALS for renewable energy storage and conversion: Batteries, Supercapacitors, Fuel cells, Hydrogen storage, and Photovoltaics and solar cells.
2. MATERIALS for renewable and sustainable fuel production: Hydrogen production and fuel generation from renewables (catalysis), Solar-driven reactions to hydrogen and fuels from renewables (photocatalysis), Biofuels, and Carbon dioxide sequestration and conversion.
3. MATERIALS for energy saving: Thermoelectrics, Novel illumination sources for efficient lighting, and Energy saving in buildings.
4. MATERIALS modeling and theoretical aspects.
5. Advanced characterization techniques of MATERIALS
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