The limited efficiency of internal combustion engines is one of the main factors that contribute to their high carbon footprint. In fact, only the 25% of the energy contained in fuel It is actually used to generate movement, while the rest disperses in the form of heat and exhaust gases. To reduce this energy waste and lower the environmental impact of thermal engines, the Dr. Bed Poudel and the Professor Wenjie Liboth researchers at the Pennsylvania State Universitydeveloped a thermallary generator able to transform the thermal energy of the exhaust gases into electricity.
A generator based on a highly efficient semiconductor material
This new technology adapts not only to terrestrial vehicles, but also to helicopters and drones. The thermallaster generator is built with Tellururo di Bismutoa semiconductor material that, thanks to a heat padder and one thermal exchangeris able to optimize the difference in temperature between its ends, maximizing energy production.
The first prototype made by scientists has reached a power of 40 Wattbut subsequent studies have shown that by increasing the air flow in the system, the performance can be improved. The simulations made on different vehicles highlighted a variable energy production: up to 56 watts on cars And Up to 146 watts on helicopters.
One of the most innovative aspects of this technology is his compatibility with current exhaust systemswithout the need for structural changes to the engines or to add new cooling systems. This means that the generator can be integrated without invasive interventionsmaking it a practicable solution to reduce carbon emissions and improve the energy efficiency of thermal engines.
The implementation of this device in the transport sector could bring Numerous advantagesincluding a reduction in the dependence on fossil fuels It is a smarter use of energy already available in vehicles.
The results of the study were published in the magazine ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces With the article entitled: “Turning Car and Helicopter Exhaust Into ThermoElectric Energy”.
