A group of researchers from Pennsylvania State University have managed to reuse the energy lost in the form of heat through exhaust gases, using a thermoelectric generator, thus contributing to the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions and optimizing the energy efficiency of engines.
A thermoelectric generator that harnesses energy
This device works by capturing waste heat from exhaust gases, using advanced semiconductor materials such as bismuth telluride . What sets this device apart is its compact design, which eliminates the need for additional cooling systems. This feature makes it ideal for implementation in high-speed vehicles such as cars, helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
The generator is capable of producing up to 56 watts of electricity in airflow conditions typical of a car’s exhaust pipe. However, in more extreme locations, such as those found in helicopter exhaust, the generator can generate up to 146 watts. This energy can be used to power electronic devices, recharge batteries, and even improve the efficiency of the vehicle’s own electrical systems.
Furthermore, it does not require costly modifications or additional cooling systems, allowing waste heat to be harnessed without making large investments in new engine designs. This breakthrough opens the door to widespread adoption of thermoelectric devices in vehicles of all types, helping to reduce fuel consumption and lower the overall carbon footprint.
As demand for clean energy solutions continues to grow, such innovations could usher in a new era where vehicles become more fuel-efficient and actively contribute to generating electricity from their own waste heat.
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Source and photos: ACS
