Thermoelectric generator

from henders007



The thermoelectric effect refers to phenomena by which either a temperature difference creates an electric potential or an electric potential creates a temperature difference. Converting temperature to current is known more specifically as the Seebeck effect.

This effect has been used for decades to power space vehicles (Apollo ,Voyager probes, Mars rovers, etc..) using radioisotope thermoelectric generators, where the heat released by the radioctive materials is converted into electricity using an array of thermocouples.

Commonly used thermoelectric materials in such applications are semiconductors, as for example bismuth telluride (Bi2Te3).

What are the car companies waiting for to install these devices in our cars!!