GRI research on thermophotovoltaics
- Gas Research Institute, Chicago, Illinois 60631 (United States)
Thermophotovoltaic (TPV) systems have potential applicability to residential and commercial gas furnaces that generate their own electric power. Two key requirements are high-temperature, wavelength-selective emitters that are durable and reliable, and low-cost, PV cells designed for TPV. GRI-supported research at the Tecogen Division of Thermo Power Corporation is progressing toward the development of a supported, continuous-fiber structure that operates effectively at temperatures of 1400 {degree}C--1800 {degree}C and emits radiation selectively at wavelengths near the band-gap of silicon PV cells. These structures also have potential in gas lighting and radiant burner applications. Tecogen has estimated the ultimate costs of its TPV system to be between $0.30 and $1.50 per watt. The costs depend strongly on the radiant intensity produced by the selective emitter and the cost and efficiency of the PV cells. Significant efficiency improvements and more evaluation are needed for using TPV in on-site cogeneration. {copyright} {ital 1995} {ital American} {ital Institute} {ital of} {ital Physics}.
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE
- OSTI ID:
- 165953
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-940101--
- Journal Information:
- AIP Conference Proceedings, Journal Name: AIP Conference Proceedings Journal Issue: 1 Vol. 321; ISSN 0094-243X; ISSN APCPCS
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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