Efficiency at Maximum Power of Dissipative Thermoelectric Generators: A Finite-time Thermodynamic Analysis

Journal Article · Sat Dec 15 00:00:00 EST 2018 · Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1007/S11665-018-3522-4· OSTI ID:22971103

Narducci, Dario ^[1]

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1. University of Milano-Bicocca, Department of Materials Science (Italy)

In this paper we analyze the thermodynamic efficiency expected for a fully dissipative thermoelectric generator (TEG) operating under stationary conditions at a finite rate. Although a finite-time thermodynamic analysis of TEGs has been aimed at since long time, no complete theory is available yet. The state of the art of theory is reviewed, and a simple expression for the maximum achievable efficiency of TEGs operating under fully irreversible conditions is obtained. This also sets a reference efficiency for forthcoming studies of nonstationary operation of TEGs.

• OSTI ID: 22971103
• Journal Information: Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance, Vol. 27, Issue 12; Conference: GiTE 2018 Workshop: Thermoelectricity Days, Santa Margherita Ligure (Italy), 21-22 Feb 2018; Other Information: Copyright (c) 2018 ASM International; http://www.springer-ny.com; Country of input: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA); ISSN 1059-9495
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS
GENERAL PHYSICS
THERMODYNAMICS
THERMOELECTRIC GENERATORS
THERMOELECTRICITY