Performance characterization of high-efficiency segmented Bi 2Te3/CoSb3 unicouples for thermoelectric generators

Abstract

High efficiency segmented thermoelectric unicouples STUs made of Bi 2Te3 and CoSb3-based alloys have been developed. The performance parameters of elements at selected temperatures ranging from 288 to 673K were tested on the constructed set-up. Characterization of electrical resistances of contacts and materials was made by a scanning thermoelectric microprobe (STM). The extended numerical model of STU, which takes into account i.e. thermal resistances and thermoelectric effects at junctions, as well as, inside segments (Thomson effect) was developed. The results of numerical calculations were compared with experimental data. © 2012 American Institute of Physics.