Life Cycle Assessment of Thermoelectric Generators (TEGs) in an Automobile Application

Abstract

In this paper, a possibility to reduce the environmental burdens by employing thermoelectric generators (TEGs) was analyzed with a cradle-to-grave LCA approach. An upscaling technique was newly introduced to assess the environmental impacts of TEGs over its life cycle. In addition to CO2 emissions, other environmental impacts as well as social impacts were assessed using the Life Cycle Impact Assessment Method based on Endpoint Modeling (LIME2). The analysis was conducted under two scenarios, a baseline scenario with a 7.2% conversion efficiency and a technology innovation scenario with that of 17.7% at different production scales. The results showed that while GHG emissions were positive over the life cycle under the baseline scenario, it became negative (−1.56 × 102 kg-CO2 eq/kg) under the technology innovation scenario due to GHG credits in the use phase. An increase in the conversion efficiency of the TEG and a decrease in the amount of stainless steel used in TEG construction are both necessary in order to reduce the environmental impacts associated with TEG manufacture and use. In addition, to accurately assess the benefit of TEG deployment, the lifetime driving distance needs to be analyzed together with the conversion efficiency.

Mathematical analysis of the solar assisted thermoelectric generator

“…The result depicted that the emission of Green House Gases (GHG) become negative in the innovative technique due to GHG credits in the usage time. The baseline scenario was having positive GHG emissions [38]. The use of STEG promotes sustainable energy practices and reduction of GHG emission in its life cycle.…”

Advancements in Thermoelectric Generator Design: Exploring Heat Exchanger Efficiency and Material Properties

“…However, the environmental profile of TEGs is not fully understood, and their sustainability and resource availability need further investigation [95]. The economic aspects of TEGs are also important, with the potential for cost savings and reduced environmental burden [96]. Implementing TEGs is a crucial aspect of green technologies, with the potential for significant economic and environmental benefits [97].…”