Performance of π-shaped thermoelectric generator using novel p-type ZrMnZ and n-type Bi2Te3/SiGe alloys for renewable and sustainable energy applications

Energy emitted in the form of heat from various sources can be recovered and converted into usable electricity using thermoelectric generators (TEGs). In this study, the efficiency of a π-shaped thermoelectric module composed of p-type ZrMnZ (Z = In, Pb, Bi) legs and n-type Bi2Te3/SiGe alloys were investigated using MATLAB simulation software. The module efficiency was analyzed by varying the p-type legs (ZrMnIn, ZrMnPb, and ZrMnBi), n-type legs (Bi2Te3 and SiGe), and electrode materials (Al, Cu, and Ni), while keeping the ceramic plates (Al2O3) constant. The thermoelectric properties of the ZrMnZ alloys were evaluated using the WIEN2k code. Subsequently, the thermoelectric module was constructed, and its performance was simulated in MATLAB. The results reveal that the highest efficiency was achieved for the TEG comprising p-type ZrMnBi and n-type SiGe legs with Cu electrodes. Furthermore, it is observed that varying the leg height and incorporating suitable dopants can further enhance the device efficiency. Therefore, this study demonstrates that the half-Heusler alloys ZrMnIn, ZrMnPb, and ZrMnBi are promising candidates for efficient thermoelectric energy conversion applications.