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Optimization Criteria and Efficiency of a Thermoelectric Generator
V H Juárez-Huerta1, N Sánchez-Salas1, J C Chimal-Eguía2
1Departamento de Física, Escuela Superior de Física y Matemáticas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, UP Zacatenco, Ciudad de México CP 07738, Mexico.
Entropy (Basel, Switzerland)
|December 23, 2022
Summary
This study compares thermoelectric generator (TEG) efficiencies using finite-time thermodynamics. The Omega function criterion offers higher efficiency than maximum power output for TEG optimization.
Area of Science:
- Thermodynamics
- Energy Conversion
- Materials Science
Background:
- Thermoelectric generators (TEGs) convert heat to electricity.
- Finite-time thermodynamics optimizes energy conversion processes.
- Irreversibilities in TEGs affect performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate TEG efficiency under maximum conditions using two optimization criteria.
- To compare efficiencies derived from the efficient power criterion and the Omega function.
- To analyze TEG performance considering electrical and thermal irreversibilities.
Main Methods:
- Modeling a macroscopic thermoelectric generator (TEG).
- Considering Joule heating (R), heat exchanger conductances (Kh, Kc), and internal heat leakage (K).
- Analyzing exoreversible and endoreversible TEG configurations.
Main Results:
- Efficiency at maximum Omega function surpasses maximum efficient power efficiency.
- Maximum efficient power efficiency exceeds maximum power output efficiency.
- The Omega function provides a better trade-off between useful and lost energy.
Conclusions:
- The Omega function is a superior criterion for optimizing TEG efficiency.
- Understanding irreversibilities is crucial for enhancing TEG performance.
- Finite-time thermodynamics offers valuable insights for TEG design and operation.
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