Can waste heat power smart sensors? This work demonstrates a compact energy harvesting system that combines a thermoelectric generator (TEG) with a phase change material (PCM) to convert low low-grade heat from building surfaces into electricity. The PCM stabilizes temperature differences, boosting energy generation. Laboratory tests with polyethylene glycol (PEG600 and PEG1000) identify the optimal setup, PEG600 without insulation , delivering up to 315 µW and 2184 mJ of energy. A validated thermal model accurately predicts system performance (RMSE: 0.4 °C). Outdoor testing over 24 hours produces 2083 mJ, sufficient to power temperature, humidity, and pressure sensors.
Thermoelectric Generators with Phase Change Materials for Energy Autonomy
Hossein Darvish;Antonio Paolo Carlucci;Antonio Ficarella
2026-01-01
Abstract
Can waste heat power smart sensors? This work demonstrates a compact energy harvesting system that combines a thermoelectric generator (TEG) with a phase change material (PCM) to convert low low-grade heat from building surfaces into electricity. The PCM stabilizes temperature differences, boosting energy generation. Laboratory tests with polyethylene glycol (PEG600 and PEG1000) identify the optimal setup, PEG600 without insulation , delivering up to 315 µW and 2184 mJ of energy. A validated thermal model accurately predicts system performance (RMSE: 0.4 °C). Outdoor testing over 24 hours produces 2083 mJ, sufficient to power temperature, humidity, and pressure sensors.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
