Development of a compact high-performance combustion powered thermoelectric generator based on swirl burner

Abstract

Nowadays, with the emergence of high-performance thermoelectric (TE) modules and the continuous optimization of generator structures, hydrocarbon combustion powered mini-/meso-/micro-scale thermoelectric generator (HCP-m-TEG) has shown an energy density not second to that of lithium batteries. This means that HCP-m-TEG now has potential value in some specific commercial fields. However, the single-digit electric power output and over-miniaturized structure of most existing HCP-m-TEGs result in narrow application scenarios. To obtain higher energy density and electric power output, this study constructs a novel compact high-performance HCP-m-TEG prototype based on swirl burner. The total volume and weight of the HCP-m-TEG prototype are only 863.65 cm3 and 2.470 kg. The experimental results show that under extreme, safe, and long-term operating conditions, the electrical power and overall efficiency of the prototype reach 76.93 W-3.81 %, 69.58 W-3.73 %, and 56.21 W-3.29 %, respectively. Compared to previous work, this prototype has achieved excellent energy density. Moreover, the emission, modularity and the practical plans of the prototype are fully discussed. The emission of this prototype is comparable to residential stoves, which ensure safety. By combining different numbers of generation units, several potential application modes can be developed. Overall, this prototype provides a high energy density HCP-m-TEG structure with broad commercial potential.