Work

Experimental study of coupled heat transfer and thermoelectric performance in an exhaust waste heat recovery system for a stationary diesel generator

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Waste heat recovery from internal combustion engine (ICE) exhaust gases represents an effective approach to improving overall energy utilization and reducing fuel consumption. Among available technologies, thermoelectric generators (TEGs) are attractive due to high reliability and direct conversion of heat into electricity. However, the practical performance of exhaust-mounted TEG systems is largely affected by the coupled heat-transfer processes between the exhaust gas, thermoelectric modules, and cooling system, which remain insufficiently understood under realistic operating conditions. In this study, an exhaust-mounted thermoelectric generator was experimentally developed and evaluated on a stationary diesel engine generator under various operating loads. Two TEG configurations were investigated to evaluate the influence of exhaust thermal conditions on electrical performance. The experimental results show that increasing engine load enhances the exhaust-gas temperature and the temperature difference across the thermoelectric modules, resulting in improved electrical output. The optimized configuration achieved a maximum electrical power of 72 W, while demonstrating stable performance throughout the investigated operating range. The results further indicate that efficient cooling and reduced thermal resistance are essential for maintaining a large temperature gradient and maximizing thermoelectric conversion efficiency. This work provides experimental insight into the heat-transfer characteristics governing exhaust-mounted thermoelectric generators and offers a practical foundation for the thermal design and optimization of waste heat recovery systems for stationary ICEs.

Source: International Journal of Heat and Fluid Flow

DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheatfluidflow.2026.110694

Authors: Nguyen Duy Vinh, Nguyen Tien Tan, Khong Vu Quang, Tran Duy Duc

Institutions: Phenikaa University, Hanoi University of Industry, Trường Đại học Khoa học và Công nghệ Hà Nội, Hanoi University of Science and Technology

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: $3,420