Abstract:
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Thermoelectric modules are currently used both in Peltier cooling and in Seebeck mode for electricity
generation. The developments experienced in both cases depend essentially on two factors: the thermoelectric
properties of the materials that form these elements (mainly semiconductors), and the
external structure of the semiconductors. Figure of Merit Z is currently the best way of measuring the
efficiency of semiconductors, as it relates to the intrinsic parameters of the semiconductor: Seebeck
coefficient, thermal resistance, and thermal conductivity. When it comes to evaluating the complete
structure, the Coefficient of Performance (COP) is used, relating the electrical power to the thermal
power of the module. This paper develops a Thermoelectric Generator (TEG) structure which allows
minimising the response time of the thermoelectric device, obtaining short working cycles and, therefore,
a higher working frequency. |