Development and evaluation of 3-stage segmented thermoelectric elements

摘要: One of a way to achieve high power performance thermoelectric device is broaden the operating temperature range materials. In order realize this, project team has carried out cooperative research and they have developed 3-stage segmented elements. The element composed three kinds optimized materials: SiGe; PbTe; Bi/sub 2/Te/sub 3/. can work over wide from room 1073 K. Every stage was prepared both in monolithic 2 layer-stepwise structures, simply called element, constructed by gradient materials, FGM (functionally graded materials). For confirming effect large also standard SiGe which machined same size as one. Evaluations for every included electric resistance, generative current output. A large-temperature-span apparatus conducted evaluations, accuracy electronic load used this experiment. results indicate that highest efficiency up 17% possible SiGe, PbTe Amount total resistance significantly affects Improvement joining process stepwise will greatly contribute performance.