Performance analysis of a thermally regenerative electrochemical cycle for harvesting waste heat

The performance of a (TREC) thermally regenerative electrochemical cycle for harvesting waste heat has been investigated based on finite time analysis. The impacts of cell material and heat exchangers on the maximum power extracted and its corresponding efficiency have been analyzed. Results reveal that materials with larger isothermal coefficients, specific charge/discharge capacities, and lower internal resistances correspond to larger maximum power that can be extracted from them. If both power and efficiency are considered, materials with larger isothermal coefficients, specific charge/discharge capacities, appropriate internal resistances, and lower specific heats are more appealing. A better heat exchanger performance increases maximum power output; however, it does not guarantee higher efficiency. This work is expected to contribute in choosing appropriate materials and heat exchangers to improve the performance of TREC devices.