Investigation of Combined Electronic and Ionic Thermoelectric Concrete

Abstract

Thermoelectric energy is one of the promising renewable energy technologies. Research has been focused on finding new materials that have higher efficiency. While most research focuses on electronic thermoelectric materials based on solid materials, recent research also started to head towards ionic thermoelectricity utilizing the ionic conductivity of liquids and gels. Recently, more materials with p-types thermoelectric properties have been developed than n-type. More n-type thermoelectric materials are needed to be developed to produce more energy from thermoelectric modules. This paper aims to (1) illustrate the concept of combining electronic and ionic thermoelectric material properties, (2) develop an n-type thermoelectric generator using MnO2 nanopowders and cement paste which acts as a core of the sample, (3) present a novel way to compensate the strength loss through casting high strength concrete shell around the thermoelectric core. Finally, a parametric study is carried out to investigate the role of KOH, MnO2, inner core size, and the effect of temperature gradient on ionic conductivity.