The Experimental Research of Integrative SMR Using TEG for Power Generation

Abstract A Thermoelectric Generator (TEG) is a device that directly converts heat into electricity based on the Seebeck effect. An Integrative Small Modular Reactor (SMR) utilizing TEG as a power generator is characterized by the direct conversion of thermal energy into electric energy, absence of moving parts, an extended lifespan, and a reduction in reactor space. This paper presents an experimental research study on an SMR-TEG test facility using high-temperature Liquid Metal as the TEG’s hot side and normal-temperature water as the TEG’s cold side. The experiment yielded electric output power and thermo-electric conversion efficiency data for the TEG testing module. These results can be conventionally utilized for TEG material evaluation and reactor design optimization in subsequent stages of research and development.