Tubular ring thermoelectric module for exhaust pipes: From Skutterudite nanopowders to the final device

There is an important number of thermoelectric applications in the range medium temperatures (between 200 and 600 °C), such as heat recovery automotive applications, where these are easily reached exhaust or motor. Among various materials which exhibit good properties this range, Skutterudites (with general formula CoSb3) stand out some most used. In recent years, different improvements have been done to decrease their thermal conductivity, from using rattler atoms inside structure nanostructuring by sintering nanoparticles increasing grain boundaries. work, we present subsequent development nanopowder ball-milling fabrication method, obtain a scalable production n-type p-type nanostructured Skutterudites. The powders into nano-composites was pressing annealing treatments, not only could substitute other processes Spark Plasma Sintering, giving competitive values final material, but can also be used directly geometries certain implementations. This procedure has tested fabricating legs material shape rings, contrast with more generally available modules, planar architecture. ring-shaped architecture obtained nano-powders between copper them, cylindrical generators were implemented, several advantages for use waste exhaust, instance. optimal parameters, far geometry device, extracted simulations based on actual measurements fabricated rings. Taking all account, work route fabricate low-cost nano-structured Skutterudite way, suitable implementation architectures mid-range temperature applications.