Method for Predicting Thermoelectric Module Efficiency Using MATLAB/Simulink

Abstract

Development new high-performance thermoelectric materials for more efficient power generation systems and eco-friendly refrigerating systems has been challenging. Over the past few decades, thermoelectric studies have been focused on increasing the thermoelectric properties of materials. However, for conventional applications, developing of thermoelectric devices or modules with lower cost and simpler fabrication processes is also important. Simulation models that can predict the thermoelectric efficiency of modules using the thermoelectric properties of materials are needed for this purpose. In this study, we developed a simple model for calculating the efficiency of thermoelectric modules using MATLAB/Simulink. In this model, the temperature difference between the hot source and heat sink was fixed to ensure the precise comparisons of thermoelectric efficiency. The electric resistivity and Seebeck coefficient of thermoelectric materials was used in order to predict the efficiency of the thermoelectric modules. Then, the efficiency of the thermoelectric modules was verified using measured values which had been reported in prior experimental works. In this study, the simulated values were higher than the real thermoelectric effiency values. To address this, the simulations should consider the thermal resistance or electric contact resistance between the thermoelectric materials and electrodes.