Thermoelectric: Direct Solar Thermal Energy Conversion (2008)

This report was arranged by Terry M. Tritt (Clemson University, USA), Harald Böttner (Fraunhofer Institut für Physikalische ebtechnik, Germany), and Lidong Chen (China Academy of Sciences, China). The report provides a brief history and overview on the field of thermoelectricity, along with the present and future uses of thermoelectricity and the benefits it could provide for third world countries. The topic is depicted through text, mathematical equations, and graphs.

The present applications of thermoelectric materials are discussed. Its increased prevalence in society has come about due to the rising costs of fossil fuels. Ideas are being brought forth on how thermoelectric materials can be applied to markets for “remote-powered” systems.

The future of thermoelectric materials is primarily connected to an enhanced material performance and better thermal management design. Otherwise, solar energy is the most stable, long-term, and readily available energy source. It is just a matter of storage and low-cost transformation.

Solar energy can play a major part in solving some of the problems that third world countries experience, one of which is being unable to receive reliable electric services. This energy source is more economically reasonable then anything else that these countries presently use. One of the only issues concerning this matter is the need for human infrastructure to maintain and deploy the systems.

Author : Terry M Tritt, Harald Böttner, Lidong Chen

Date of publication : 2008

Pages : 3

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