Use of the thermoelectric effect is a most attractive method for converting heat into electrical work. The thermoelectric generator is a simple, quiet, nonrotating solid state device. Its efficiency is at least as high as that of the smaller mechanical converters. Its output per unit of mass is probably about on a par with them, and the output per unit of volume is probably higher. Consequently, these devices would be expected to be useful where quietness is important and in remote spots where almost automatic operation is necessary. They would also be useful for small-unit application (mobile or stationary), in situations where standby capacity is needed, and in the economical use of waste heat. At present, it is difficult to foresee the use of the thermoelectric generator as a large scale power unit. However, if the capital costs of such a generation system could be made sufficiently attractive when compared ...