Small thermoelectric generators

Thermoelectric generators with combustion heat sources are being developed for the US Army, TACOM-ARDEC, by Hi-Z Technology, Inc., for battery replacement in the field and for powering lightweight portable battery chargers. These small generators range in output power from 0.3 Watts to 20 Watts. The main thrust of the development work is to demonstrate utilization of diesel or other military logistics fuel as the heat source. The thermoelectric generating modules being used operate at relatively low hot side temperatures and with modest power conversion efficiencies. Nevertheless, the concept shows potential advantage over batteries in watts per pound and watt-hours per pound, thus addressing the "battery problem" and the need for lightening the soldier\´s battery burden, and doing so at reasonable costs. The thermoelectric material used in this application is current state-of-the-art. However, Hi-Z is also developing advanced thermoelectric materials and devices that promise significantly improved performance in the near future.