Scientists representing the National Renewable Energy Laboratory and Pennsylvania State University have created a flexible energy converter.
This concept can be used on hot water and heating pipes, as well as on car exhaust systems.
According to Professor Shashank Pree, before their invention, no technology in the world would help use the released heat effectively.
Its vast amount, a secondary product of human life, is “thrown to the wind.” Therefore, he hopes that developing a thermoelectric generator will change this situation.
The flexible energy converter can be combined with all sources of “useless heat”. Externally, the development is a flat square, consisting of “two-legged” strings fastened together.
The distance between the strings ensures the flexibility of the device. For the thermogenerator to start working, it has to be placed next to a heat source. Electric current arises from the movement of electrons towards the cold side away from the hot.
The developers said the flexible power converter has already passed the first test. The 3 square inch prototype performed well, with a generation output power of 56.6 W.