Conceptual Thermosyphonic Loop Cooled Thermoelectric Power Cogeneration System for Automotive Applications

Abstract:

Thermoelectric cogeneration may be applied to the exhaust of an automobile to generate additional electric power, by applying a temperature differential across the thermoelectric power generation modules. To obtain maximum net power, the highest allowable temperature difference should be obtained. Therefore, a cooling system should be employed to ensure that the cold side of the thermoelectric modules remain as cold as possible. An evaporative cooling system patented by Einstein and Szilard is used as a base for a non-parasitic cooling system to be used together with thermoelectric modules. The cooling system utilizes the same heat which powers the thermoelectric modules as a power source. By utilizing the high solubility of ammonia in water, the solubility dependency with temperature, and usage of polar and non-polar solvents to direct the flow of ammonia as a coolant, it is possible to create a cooling system which performs better than passive heat sinks, but negates the power requirements of active cooling systems.

• Periodical: Applied Mechanics and Materials (Volume 663)
• Pages: 294-298
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/AMM.663.294
• Online since: October 2014
• Authors: Jason Sim*, Rozli Zulkifli, Shahrir Abdullah
• Keywords: Automobiles, Cogeneration, Green Energy Technology, Phase Change Cooling, PV Power Generation, Thermoelectric

References

[1] A. Samba, H. Louahlia-Gualous, S.L. Masson, D. Norterhauser, Two-phase thermosyphon loop for cooling outdoor telecommunication equipments, Applied Thermal Engineering. 50 (2013) 1351-1360.

DOI: 10.1016/j.applthermaleng.2012.05.023

[2] R.Y. Nuwayid, R. Hamade, Design and testing of a locally made loop-type thermosyphonic heat sink for stove-top thermoelectric generators, Renewable Energy. 30 (2005) 1101-1116.

DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2004.09.008

[3] Y. Dobriansky, Concepts of self-acting circulation loops for downward heat transfer (reverse thermosiphons), Energy Conversion and Management. 52 (2011) 414-425.

DOI: 10.1016/j.enconman.2010.06.073

[4] A. Einstein & L. Szilard, Patent No. 1781541. Germany. (1930).

[5] A. Jha, (2008, September 21). Einstein fridge design can help global cooling, Retrieved October 7, 2013, from The Guardian: http: /www. theguardian. com/science/2008/sep/21/ scienceofclimatechange. climatechange.

[6] K. Mejbri, N.B. Ezzine, Y. Guizani, A. Bellagi, Discussion of the feasibility of the Einstein refrigeration cycle, International Journal f Refrigeration. 29 (2006) 60-70.

DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrefrig.2005.06.009

[7] K.W. Chan, M. McCulloch, Analysis and modelling of water based bubble pump at atmospheric pressure, International Journal of Refrigeration. 36 (2013) 1521-1528.

DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrefrig.2013.03.011