Integrated Thermoelectric Generation System for Sustainable All-Day Power Supply Based on Solar Energy and Radiative...

Area of Science:

• Sustainable energy technologies
• Thermoelectric power generation
• Solar energy harvesting

Background:

• Thermoelectric generators (TEGs) offer reliable, sustainable energy by converting waste heat.
• Solar energy is abundant but largely wasted.
• Efficient solar energy utilization requires integrated systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an integrated system for efficient solar energy utilization using thermoelectric generators.
• To enhance thermoelectric power generation through a multi-component approach.
• To achieve continuous power supply using solar energy.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a solar absorber using multiwalled carbon nanotubes and polydimethylsiloxane for high sunlight absorption (99%).
• Incorporation of paraffin wax as a phase change material for thermal energy storage.
• Utilizing a Fresnel lens for concentrated solar power collection.
• Integration of these components with thermoelectric generators.

Main Results:

• The solar absorber achieved 99% sunlight absorption and demonstrated radiative cooling (7.3 K difference).
• The phase change material effectively stored and released heat.
• The integrated system achieved a daytime power density of 4.1 mW/cm² and a nighttime peak of 0.2 mW/cm².
• The system provides an uninterrupted power supply for electronic devices.

Conclusions:

• The multi-component system efficiently utilizes solar energy for continuous thermoelectric power generation.
• This approach offers a viable option for sustainable energy applications.
• The integration enhances thermoelectric generator performance and cost-effectiveness.