Application of thermoelectric modules as renewable energy sources

Abstract

Thermoelectric modules are used for heating or cooling if an electric current flows through them. If one side of such a module is heated and the other side is cooled, the outputs show a potential difference that creates the current flow through an enclosed circuit. The paper describes briefly the physical basis of the operation of semiconductor thermoelectric modules and their application for generating electricity as thermoelectric generators. The experimental measurements were made with different available modules of thermoelectric generators. The analysis of obtained results has provided the conclusions about the possibility of their application as sources of electricity. Although the efficiency of thermoelectric modules is still quite low, the latest research reveals the possibility of the use of materials that make modules more efficient. Considering the fact that they do not contain moving parts, they are characterized by reliable, long-lasting work and simple operation and maintenance.

Keywords

• electricity generation
• materials
• Peltier's cell
• reliability
• renewable energy sources
• thermoelectric module