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Formula for energy conversion efficiency of thermoelectric generator taking temperature dependent thermoelectric parameters into account
A simple formula for maximum efficiency (ηmax) of heat conversion into electricity in a thermoelectric generator is derived and discussed in terms of a practical dimensionless thermoelectric figure of merit (ZT)PR, taking temperature dependent Seebeck coefficient, resistivity, and thermal conductivity into account. Thomson heating that comes from the temperature dependent Seebeck coefficient (d|S|/dT > 0) reduces thermal conduction loss as well as Joule heating. On the other hand, Thomson cooling that occurs in the region d|S|/dT
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