Pioneering sustainable power: Harnessing material innovations in double stage segmented thermoelectric generators for optimal 4E performance

Hisham Alghamdi, Chika Maduabuchi, Kingsley Okoli, Abdullah Albaker, Emad Makki, Mohammed Alghassab, Mohammad Alobaid and Mohammad Alkhedher

Applied Energy, 2023, vol. 352, issue C, No S0306261923012497

Abstract: This study presents groundbreaking advancements in sustainable power through a comprehensive exploration of double-stage segmented thermoelectric generators (DSSTEGs) optimized for efficient solar energy conversion. Specifically comparing DSSTEGs with other solar thermoelectric generator (STEG) configurations through geometry parametric optimization, we elucidate the intricate interplay between material properties and design parameters using a finite element method-driven numerical approach. The focus is on achieving 4E optimization (energy, exergy, environmental, and economic factors). Our results demonstrate that a skutterudite content of 6.17% maximizes DSSTEG performance, showcasing its superiority over conventional STEGs. The optimized DSSTEG excels with remarkable CO2 savings of 23.78 kgyr−1 and an impressive high output power of 50.08 W at the optimal skutterudite content. Moreover, the DSSTEG design demonstrates a balanced cost-effectiveness with an outstanding $0.05 per watt output, surpassing conventional STEGs' cost-efficiency. These findings offer a pragmatic framework for integrating innovative materials and optimized designs in concentrated solar energy applications, signifying a significant stride in the field of thermoelectric generators. The pivotal role of materials and design in defining and optimizing performance for enhanced solar energy conversion is highlighted, propelling the path towards a more sustainable and efficient energy future.

Keywords: Performance analysis; Absorbed solar flux; Design optimization; Energy sustainability; Segmented thermoelectric (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (3)

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DOI: 10.1016/j.apenergy.2023.121885

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