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Series of detail comparison and optimization of thermoelectric element geometry considering the PV effect

Shittu, Samson; Li, Guiqiang; Zhao, Xudong; Ma, Xiaoli

Authors

Samson Shittu

Guiqiang Li



Abstract

This study investigates the optimum geometry for maximum efficiency of a hybrid PV-TE uni-couple using Finite Element Method. COMSOL Multiphysics is used to solve the 3-Dimensional heat transfer equations considering thermoelectric materials with temperature dependent properties. Two types of thermoelectric element geometry area ratios are considered for the range and . Nine different geometric configurations are analysed for two different PV cells. Effects of thermoelectric generator (TEG) geometric parameters, solar irradiation and concentration ratio on the hybrid system efficiency are presented. The results show that a hybrid PV-TE system will perform better with symmetrical TEG geometry () if a PV temperature coefficient of 0.004/K (Cell B) is used. This is different from the optimum geometry for a TEG only system. However, the optimum geometry of the TEG in a hybrid system will be the same as that of a TEG only system (dissymmetrical i.e. ) if a PV temperature coefficient of 0.001/K (Cell A) is used. The overall efficiency and TE temperature difference show a decreasing trend as thermoelectric element length and area increase respectively no matter the configuration or temperature coefficient value used. Results obtained from this research would influence hybrid PV-TE system design for obtaining maximum conversion efficiency.

Citation

Shittu, S., Li, G., Zhao, X., & Ma, X. (2019). Series of detail comparison and optimization of thermoelectric element geometry considering the PV effect. Renewable energy, 130, 930-942. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.renene.2018.07.002

Journal Article Type Article
Acceptance Date Jul 2, 2018
Online Publication Date Jul 4, 2018
Publication Date Jan 1, 2019
Deposit Date Jul 5, 2018
Publicly Available Date Jul 5, 2019
Journal Renewable Energy
Print ISSN 0960-1481
Publisher Elsevier
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 130
Pages 930-942
DOI https://doi.org/10.1016/j.renene.2018.07.002
Keywords PV-TE; Finite element method; TE area ratio; Geometry; Efficiency
Public URL https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/912663
Publisher URL https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0960148118307870?via%3Dihub
Contract Date Jul 5, 2018

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