Oxide-based thermoelectric power generation module using p-type Ca3Co4O9 and n-type (ZnO)7In2O3 legs

This study presents the fabrication of an oxide-based thermoelectric power generation module using layer-structured p-type Ca3Co4O9 and n-type (ZnO)7In2O3 legs. The potential for development and effective use of high power density thermoelectric generation system is investigated in terms of its power per area, the temperature conditions, and the number of p–n couples. The significance of the manufacturing factors including contact between legs and electrodes are discussed. The thermoelectric figure of merit values of the p-type and n-type legs at 1100 K were 0.55 × 10−4 K−1 and 1.35 × 10−4 K−1, respectively. The maximum power obtained was 423 mW with the 44 p–n couples module, under the thermal condition of a hot-side temperature of 1100 K and a temperature difference ΔT = 673 K.