Work

Exploring thermoelectric generation of electrical energy from exhaust gas heat: An experimental study

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The global increase in energy demand has driven the automotive sector to rely heavily on fossil fuels, contributing to harmful GHG emissions. Recent advancements in exhaust gas recovery aim to enhance the efficiency of internal combustion engines, thereby reducing fossil fuel consumption and mitigating global warming. This study explores the potential of thermoelectric heat recovery systems in automotive applications, focusing on recovering heat from exhaust gases to generate electrical energy. A prototype exhaust system using 27 thermoelectric generators was developed, demonstrating its potential to improve fuel economy by converting waste heat into usable electricity. The study achieved a maximum current of 0.47 A, a voltage of 13.05 V, and 6 W of electrical power over a five-hour operation period. However, the system required a cooling load of 1.792 kW to maintain functionality, highlighting challenges in efficiency and integration.

Source: Thermal Science

DOI: 10.2298/tsci241028064e

Authors: Dilek Esen, Mesut Kaya, Sief Addeen Shabaneh

Institution: Kocaeli Üniversitesi

Language: English

Topic: Advanced Thermoelectric Materials and Devices

Subfield: Materials Chemistry

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Affordable and clean energy, Climate action, Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $161