Work

Recent progress of thermoelectric devices or modules in Japan

Year: 2017

Type: article

Abstract: The Japanese government has promoted the thermoelectric research and development as one possible technology for raising the energy usage efficiency since 1978. The 1st application of thermoelectric power generation in Japan was a candle radio using β-FeSi2 modules, which was commercialized in 1990. Development of thermoelectric devices or modules was reactivated in 2002, when the 5-year NEDO project titled by “Development of thermoelectric energy conversion system with high efficiency” started. The Bi-Te devices with high energy conversion efficiency of 7.2% under a temperature gradient of 303-553K was reported. Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (MITI) of Japan has launched the 10-year project of “Development on the innovative utilization technologies of unused heat energy” since 2013. The administrator of this project has been changed from MITI to NEDO since 2015. Prototype devices of Mg-Si, skutterudite and organic polymers have been developed for power generation. In this paper, the recent progress of thermoelectric devices or modules in Japan is reviewed.

Source: Materials Today Proceedings

DOI: 10.1016/j.matpr.2017.10.001

Author: Yoshikazu Shinohara

Institution: National Institute for Materials Science

Language: English

Topic: Advanced Thermoelectric Materials and Devices

Subfield: Materials Chemistry

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Affordable and clean energy, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $200