NEGROS ORIENTAL HIGH SCHOOL

SENIOR HIGH CURRICULUM

Kagawasan Avenue, Capitol Area
Dumaguete City

RESEARCH PROJECT

DAN ISRAEL I. BARO

EUREKA DAHILAN

CAMZ EDRIAN C. DELNA

JHAN ACCEL DUMUGHO

JASTINE MAE C. GRAVANTE

BEA BIANCA B. GUEVARRA

ANDREY V. INOFERIO

BALERIE L. LAGUNERO

JANELL JOY M. LIGAHON

CYRUS BENEDIICT NODADO

DOMINIC THERON F. SANTILLAN

ZAYNAH VALDEHUEZA

May 2023
 NEGROS ORIENTAL HIGH SCHOOL
SENIOR HIGH CURRICULUM
Kagawasan Avenue, Capitol Area
Dumaguete City

INTRODUCTION

Coal has been one of the major contributors to the energy supply in

many countries and was the most widespread kind of fossil fuel around the

world. In fact, there were more than 75 countries around the world that has

coal deposits. Also, in the year 2013, the share of coal in the global power

generation was more or less 40 % but expected to decrease in succeeding

years, while the coal consumption had been gradually increasing. China alone

used as much coal as the other competing countries. And that was only in

terms of coal. Other developed countries are slowly acknowledging the

importance of using renewable energy. There are the top 11 countries that have

been shifting to renewable energy. These leading countries have one common

goal, and that is to eliminate or lessen the usage of fossil fuels in generating

electricity.

The solution to the problems of climate change and energy insecurity

demands large-scale conversion to clean, continual, and reliable energy at a

low cost alongside of an increase in energy efficiency. Subsidies for renewable

energy sources have been justified by the need to decarbonize the world

economy. Decarbonization was thought to be necessary to control and limit

carbon dioxide emissions. However, the strength of renewables lies in the

diversity and the abundance of their technology options and applications, as

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SENIOR HIGH CURRICULUM
Kagawasan Avenue, Capitol Area
Dumaguete City

well as their extensive availability. Renewables offer a large portfolio of different

sources and technologies.

A parallel dependence on fossil fuels has developed as a result of the

addiction to electricity. However, because oil is a finite resource, the fossil fuel

stocks will eventually run out. Due to the restricted oil supply, as well as other

economic and political issues, the price of electricity has increased to

previously unheard-of amounts throughout time. Therefore, since it will also

result in a cleaner environment for future generations, renewable energy is a

more alluring option for producing electricity. There are many excellent options

for renewable energy right now, but some of them are impractical. This

project's goal is to provide a tool that will enable anyone to use thermoelectric

devices to produce renewable energy. All solid-state thermoelectric generators

transform heat into electricity. Thermoelectric generators are absolutely silent

and have no moving parts, unlike conventional dynamic heat engines. Such

generators have been utilized successfully in deep space probes like NASA's

Voyager missions for over 30 years of maintenance-free operation. (Fisk, 2005)

There are numerous ways to produce renewable energy, including solar

energy, wind energy, hydropower, nuclear power, and many others. There are

some restrictions for each of these many methods of generating electricity. The
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SENIOR HIGH CURRICULUM
Kagawasan Avenue, Capitol Area
Dumaguete City

most popular renewable energy source, solar energy is employed in everything

from home appliances to spacecraft electrical systems. However, because solar

energy can only be produced while it is sunny, additional energy sources or a

way to store energy for later use are required. Hydropower and wind energy

both have their unique drawbacks that prevent their widespread use.

Applications for nuclear energy include power plants and military vehicles.

Energy from nuclear sources can be obtained in sufficient quantities, however

they produce toxic waste that is bad for the environment. The goal of this

project is to offer a sustainable energy source that overcomes the drawbacks of

existing technologies.

A thermoelectric device uses a number of thermocouples to convert

thermal energy into electrical energy. Studies have been conducted on

increasing the thermoelectric generator's efficiency by integrating other

technologies, such as nanotechnology. Although these gadgets are primarily

used in spacecraft technology, they can also be used in technology on Earth,

which may further advance technology. Automobiles, computers, home

appliances, and other devices are some examples of how this technology is

used. For instance, by generating electricity from the engine's waste heat,

thermoelectric devices can improve the energy output of hybrid cars.

Thermoelectric devices can be used in environments with thermal gradients

 NEGROS ORIENTAL HIGH SCHOOL
SENIOR HIGH CURRICULUM
Kagawasan Avenue, Capitol Area
Dumaguete City

because they require little upkeep and last for a long time while producing

electricity.

STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

This study is sought to determine the efficiency and practicability of

Thermoelectric Coolers (TECs) as a makeshift Thermoelectric Generator (TEG)

for power generation.

To answer the above-cited problem, an answer to the following critical

questions will be sought:

1. What are the key factors affecting the efficiency of thermoelectric coolers

when used as thermoelectric generators?

1.1 Influence of temperature differential generation sheet installation

pressure on cooling plate temperature.

1.2 Effect of installation pressure of temperature differential power

generation sheet on open circuit voltage.

1.3 Effect of installation pressure of temperature differential power

generator on output power.

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Kagawasan Avenue, Capitol Area
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2. How can the thermoelectric performance of thermoelectric coolers be

enhanced to improve their power generation capacity?

3. What are the most effective strategies for optimizing the design and

operation of thermoelectric coolers as thermoelectric generators to maximize

their energy conversion efficiency?

4. What is a Thermoelectric Cooler?

4.1 Historical Background

4.2 How it works.

4.3 Its Significance.

HYPOTHESIS

H0: Thermoelectric coolers cannot be used and produced into thermoelectric

generators

H1: Thermoelectric coolers can be used and produced into thermoelectric

generators
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SENIOR HIGH CURRICULUM
Kagawasan Avenue, Capitol Area
Dumaguete City

SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

Thermoelectric generators (TEGs) are devices that can convert heat

directly into electrical energy. The use of TEGs has gained significant attention

in recent years due to their potential to generate sustainable and clean energy

from waste heat sources. One promising approach for creating TEGs is by

utilizing thermoelectric coolers (TECs) in reverse mode. The use of TECs as

TEGs can help to reduce the environmental impact of energy generation by

converting waste heat into usable electrical energy. This approach has the

potential to revolutionize the way we generate energy and promote a greener

and more sustainable future. Creating a TEG from a TEC requires careful

design and optimization to achieve maximum energy conversion efficiency. The

development of efficient TEGs from TECs could provide an alternative and more

efficient means of energy generation, especially in applications where heat is

produced as a byproduct. Furthermore, it could pave the way for the

development of portable, self-powered devices, which could be used to power

remote sensors, wearable devices, and other electronic gadgets. The creation of

TEGs from TECs has enormous potential for reducing our reliance on non-

renewable energy sources and promoting a more sustainable energy future.

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Kagawasan Avenue, Capitol Area
Dumaguete City

Creating a thermoelectric generator from a thermoelectric cooler has

significant implications for renewable energy generation. Thermoelectric

generators can produce electrical power by converting waste heat into

electricity. This technology has the potential to improve energy efficiency in

various applications, such as automotive, aerospace, and industrial processes.

The use of TEGs can also reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lower the

environmental impact of energy production. By converting waste heat into

useful energy, TEGs can contribute to a more sustainable future. Additionally,

creating a thermoelectric generator from a TECs can provide a more cost-

effective and efficient solution for power generation in remote and off-grid

locations. These generators do not require any fuel or moving parts, making

them low-maintenance and reliable. They can also be used in conjunction with

solar panels or other renewable energy sources to provide a continuous and

reliable power supply. Therefore, developing thermoelectric generators from

thermoelectric coolers can have a significant impact on improving energy

access and addressing global energy challenges.

SCOPE AND DELIMITATIONS

The purpose of this research is to determine the effectiveness of a

thermoelectric cooler as an electric generator. It seeks to comprehend how the

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Kagawasan Avenue, Capitol Area
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Thermoelectric Cooler as an Electric Generator might affect or assist residents

in rural areas. The researchers invention was developed specifically to meet

the energy requirements of residences that do not have access to electricity.

When electricity is scarce and a backup is required, the Thermoelectric Cooler

as an Electric Generator is the best approach.

The residents of a desolate area will be the focus of data collection.

This study will only cover residents of a rural area. Individuals who are

not from the remote area are not included in this study. The study will be

carried out with limited financial and time resources.

DEFINITION OF TERMS

To the understanding of this study, different terms are defined herein.

AgGaSe2 thin films- are grown using the flash evaporation technique on glass

substrates at various substrate temperatures.

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Kagawasan Avenue, Capitol Area
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Byproduct- refers to  When the process of making one thing results in a

second product as well. 

Circuit- refers to  a complete circular path that electricity flows through. 

Enormous- described as very large in size, quantity, or extent. 

Joule effect- according to Vogt [6], it refers to the change of force at constant

length or change of length at constant force with respect to temperature, and is

reversible.

Makeshift- referred to as a temporary substitute. 

Peltier/Peltier Effect- refers to the cooling of one junction and the heating of

the other when electric current is maintained in a circuit of material consisting

of two dissimilar conductors. 

Photovoltaic modules- refers to a web that captures solar power to transform

it into sustainable energy and commonly known as solar panels.

 NEGROS ORIENTAL HIGH SCHOOL
SENIOR HIGH CURRICULUM
Kagawasan Avenue, Capitol Area
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Seeback effect- refers to the phenomenon in which a temperature difference

between two dissimilar electrical conductors or semiconductors produces a

voltage difference between the two substances. 

Sustainable- a thing made in a way that causes little or no damage to the

environment and therefore able to continue for a long time. 

Thermocouples- also called as thermal junction that refers to a temperature-

measuring device consisting of two wires of different metal joined at each end.

Thermoelectric cooler- refers to the small cooling device that relies on a

Peltier junction.

Thermoelectric generator- refers to a solid state device that converts heat flux

(temperature differences) directly into electrical energy through a phenomenon

called the Seeb facilitate eck effect.

Thermophiles- refers to any organisms that thrives in a hot environment.

Thomson effect- refers to the the evolution or absorption of heat when electric

current passes through a circuit composed of a single material that has a

temperature difference along its length.

 NEGROS ORIENTAL HIGH SCHOOL
SENIOR HIGH CURRICULUM
Kagawasan Avenue, Capitol Area
Dumaguete City

THEORETICAL BACKGROUND

The use of Thermoelectric Coolers (TECs) as a makeshift Thermoelectric

Generators (TEGs) for power generation is based on the principles of

thermoelectric energy conversion. This technology is based on the Seebeck

effect, which is the phenomenon of generating an electrical potential difference

across a thermoelectric material when a temperature difference is applied

across. There are several related theories and concepts that are relevant to the

study of TECs as TEGs, including:

Thermoelectricity is the study of the interconversion of thermal and

electrical energy. It is based on the Seebeck effect, which is the generation of

an electrical potential difference across a thermoelectric material when a

temperature difference is applied across it. A Peltier cooler and heater is a

solid-state active heat pump which moves heat from one side of the device to

another with the use if electrical energy.

The Carnot cycle is a second law of thermodynamic cycle that describes

the maximum efficiency of a heat engine. It sets a theoretical limit on the

efficiency of any heat engine, including TEGs. It was developed in year 1824 by
 NEGROS ORIENTAL HIGH SCHOOL
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Sadi Carnot, a French Physicist. The Physicist concluded that “No engine can

be more efficient than a perfectly reversible engine working between the same

two temperatures” (1824). This theory states that a self-acting machine cannot

transfer heat in a cyclic process from one to another if one of it contains

greater temperature, it is more efficient if both had same temperature.

The figure of merit (ZT) is a measure of the efficiency of a thermoelectric

material. It is a dimensionless number that describes the ability of a material

to convert heat into electricity. It is a formula that can be use to further

evaluate and predict reliable conversion of the energy. A higher ZT value

indicates a more efficient thermoelectric material.

Thermal conduction is a process of heat transfer from hotter to cooler

part of the device to bring the temperature closer to equilibrium. The basic law

of thermal conduction which is the Fourier law, states that the heat flux

density is proportional to the temperature gradient in a n object. This is to

measure a material's ability to conduct heat. In TEGs, a high thermal

conductivity can reduce the temperature gradient across the device, which can

negatively impact its performance.

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SENIOR HIGH CURRICULUM
Kagawasan Avenue, Capitol Area
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The electrical conductivity involves the flow or current of free electrons

through a solid body. This is a measure of a material's ability to conduct

electricity. In TEGs, a high electrical conductivity can improve the device's

performance by reducing electrical resistance.

The power factor is a system that defined the real number of energy

absorbed that had flowing in the circuit. This is a measure of the electrical

power output of a TEG that also improves more efficient of distributing the

energy. It is calculated as the product of the electrical conductivity and the

Seebeck coefficient.

Overall, these theories and concepts are relevant to the study of TECs as

TEGs as they provide a framework for understanding the principles of

thermoelectric energy conversion and the factors that affect TEG performance.

By applying these theories, researchers can design and optimize TEG devices

for improved efficiency and performance.

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SENIOR HIGH CURRICULUM
Kagawasan Avenue, Capitol Area
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CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK

This research is all about harvesting heat and utilizing it in order to

produce electricity conceptualized with to work and survive under the

condition such as intense heat without damaging the device since the

proponents are working under intense heat from the oven. The one side of the

thermoelectric module was placed on the hot side of the oven, and the other

portion will have a cold side due to the water that will have a cycle to maintain

the desired thermal difference to produce the target power output.

Figure 1 shows how the proponents came up with the idea of this study.

The proponents designed the circuitry of the thermoelectric generator. After

designing the circuitry, the flow for its cold and hot side were fabricated. And

lastly, the output device was put on an oven in order to harvest waste energy

and to generate electricity.

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Kagawasan Avenue, Capitol Area
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REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

The researcher focuses on the literature that is related to this project, the

Thermoelectric Generator. The following are some patented projects that are

similar to this study:

According to Mitchell and Sanford (2010), a thermoelectric generator that

can generate electricity using the Seebeck effect when a thermal gradient is

applied to its first and second major surfaces, a housing that contains a phase-

change material used for thermal communication with the thermoelectric

device's first major surface, and a radio transmitter connected electrically to

the thermoelectric generator that can transmit radio waves. In another aspect,

the housing contains a conductive fin inside to distribute heat to the phase-

change material more evenly.

Another published patent by Birkeland et al., (2009), a portable device that can

be manually heated and includes at least one thermoelectric element with a hot

or warm side and a cold side, a container attached to the cold side and

designed to hold or keep a cooling medium or fluid therein, a power converter,

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and a set of cables coming out of the thermoelectric element and connected to

the electrical load via the power converter.

According to Elsheikh et al., (2014), All energy harvesters produce power

from different resources to convert electric power. Thermal power harvesting

confides in the TEG action. It converts thermal into electrical power for the

Seebeck effect. The conversion of energy performs through TEG by

thermodynamic laws and effects. The motion of charge carriers depends on

thermal differences. The technology of modern life is wireless communication

systems. It operates at low power consumption. The thermal power harvester is

one of the ways to produce power to run a wireless communication system. In

the future, by proper utilization of TEG, it can become one of the potential

sustainable and renewable energy resources

In a study published by Siddique et al., (2017), The power generated

between 1 and 125 W of a single TEG. It can increase up to 5 kW by using

more TEGs within a modular connection. Until now, TEG has not optimally use

as an energy source. For energy production, TEG would divide into two types;

low-power and high-power. The low-power production can produce power

between 5 µW and 1 W, whereas above 1 W power is considered high-power

production. The TEG can use as a low-power production in the biomedical

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sectors, military purposes, aerospace, remote systems, and electronic devices.

The electronic devices that cardiac pacemakers and hearing aids incorporate

into human bodies have low-power requirements. Its lifetime expectancy is up

to 5 years. TEG can use as a high-power generation in automobile engines and

industries. The TEG aims to enhance the fuel economy of the vehicles within

the generated power of 1 kW. TE power generation became a potential energy

source through industrial waste heat recovery systems

According to Bhuiyan & Hasan, (2006), TEG composes of a hot and cold

surface. There are direct and indirect processes to fodder thermal temperature

to the hot surface of TEG. The lens and concentrators have required in the

direct process. The waste heat of some heat pipes or photovoltaic modules

located in vacuum glass tubes is generally applied in the indirect process to

increment the heat of the hot surfaces. TEG can produce electrical energy by

establishing a reasonable thermal difference between the two surfaces. In our

previous reports; some of the materials, such as AgGaSe2 thin films for optical

absorption studies.

According to Markowski, (2016), electrical energy can produce from the

temperature difference by using TEG. In 1821, Thomas Johann Seebeck

introduced the phenomenon. Seebeck reports electrical potential can develop

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within the presence of thermal differences in two dissimilar materials. This

phenomenon is the Seebeck effect that generates voltage to produce the

electrical current for developing power. TEG consists of many thermopiles to

increase its output power. Every thermopile is manufactured by many

thermocouples that connect in series for electrical and parallel for thermal

achievement.

Thermoelectric generators directly convert heat into electricity; this

energy source is a viable option with a low environmental impact. Examining

the feasibility of using process waste heat as a promising source of electrical

energy. Where heat causes an electric current to circulate through the

thermoelectric module from the gas burner. A Thermoelectric Module (TEM)

with Peltier cells is a type of electronic component that functions as a small

heat pump and is made up of different types of semiconductor thermocouples,

such as n and p. When provided with power, the thermoelectric modules

function as refrigerators, whereas when supplied with a temperature difference,

they generate a certain voltage. Given that thermoelectric devices operate on

four physical effects: the Seebeck effect, the Peltier effect, the Thomson effect,

and the Joule effect (Freire et al. 2021).

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Additionally, TEG efficiency is defined as the ratio of heat entering the

system to work produced. To achieve efficiency in energy generation, the

temperature gradient must be strong and properly transported to the surface of

cells, therefore the materials must have a high degree of thermal conductivity

(Twaha et al. 2016).