Thermoelectric electrochemical conversion devices
OwnerYu-Che Changinventor
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Abstract
The present invention introduces a new hybrid thermal energy harvesting device that combines electrochemistry and semiconductors to achieve simultaneous high saturation thermo-voltage and high current density. This innovation demonstrates the synergistic effect of integrating semiconductors, commonly used in solid-state thermoelectrics for high current density, with ion-conducting polymer electrolytes, known for their high thermo-voltage. The device ensures constant high-power output from continuous or periodic heat sources. It directly converts heat into electricity for immediate use or stores electricity derived from low-grade temperature differentials and temperature ranges for later discharge. It exhibits characteristics resembling both photovoltaics and capacitors simultaneously.
Claims17
A thermoelectric electrochemical conversion device, comprising:
- a pair of electrodes configured to be applied with a temperature differential, at least one said electrode being a carbonaceous electrode;
- and
- a polymeric thermoelectric electrolyte disposed between the pair of electrodes, such that the applied temperature differential over said pair of electrodes makes mobile ions diffuse via the thermoelectric electrolyte towards a lower temperature electrode of the pair of electrodes in accordance with a Seebeck/Soret effect and generate a thermoelectric voltage,
- wherein a distance between the pair of electrodes is at most 1 mm;
- and
- wherein an anodic material is deposited on a heated side of the pair of electrodes.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.