TEG for Energy Efficiency in Heavy Vehicles

The overall objective of the project is to develop and demonstrate an efficient and inexpensive thermoelectric (TE) generator for heavy vehicles based on Zn4Sb3/Mg2SiSn TE materials.

In the beginning of the project heavy vehicle fleet owners will be invited to give input to the project.

Later the thermo electric material will be improved aiming for long term reliability when exposed to high temperatures, the same applies for the thermoelectric modules. Efforts will be made to protect the thermoelectric material through coating against oxidation. Potting techniques as well as alternative assembly techniques for the thermoelectric module will also be investigated. Computer simulation will secure the best performance possible for the thermoelectric module.

Later in the project the thermoelectric modules will be integrated in thermoelectric generators. Initially design parameters are identified. Then a 20W generator will be implemented later a 100W generator for proof of concept. The thermoelectric generators will be tested with hot gas to emulate exhaust gas as the heat source in a test bench.

The project will pave the way for incorporating thermoelectric elements in future exhaust systems, thereby saving 1% of the fuel as a traditional generator can be omitted.

Read more here.