Small-Scale Energy Harvesting and Storage with Thermogalvanic Cells

Abstract

Thermogalvanic cells are introduced as an alternative to thermoelectric technology for small-scale energy harvesting. Thermogalvanic cells with intercalation electrodes have energy storage capability in addition to the ability to harvest energy through thermal-to-electric conversion. This multi-functionality is a unique advantage for small-scale applications. Thermogalvanic cells also have higher voltage output and lower thermal conductivity compared to thermoelectric thermocouples. Partial molar entropy measurements of lithium-ion half cells give an indication of an electrode material's thermogalvanic voltage. Presented here are partial molar entropy measurements of LixTiS2 and LixV2O5, shown to vary greatly with the amount of lithium intercalation (x). Also shown are preliminary measurements of the voltage generated by symmetric LixTiS2 thermogalvanic cells.