Measured and predicted performance of a micro-thermophotovoltaic device with a heat-recirculating micro-emitter

A new configuration of a 1-10 W micro-thermophotovoltaic (micro-TPV) device with a heat-recirculating micro-emitter is studied experimentally and computationally. The present micro-emitter is a simple cylinder with an annular-type shield that applies a heat-recirculation concept. The micro-emitter is surrounded by a chamber, the inner wall of which has an installation of photovoltaic cells (PVCs). The micro-emitter materials and the gap between the micro-emitter and the walls of the PVC-installed chamber substantially affect the performance of the micro-TPV device. Under optimized design conditions, a pre-mixed micro-flame stabilizes easily in the micro-emitter, and the heat generated in the micro-emitter is emitted uniformly, providing adequate overall system efficiencies. Thus, the present micro-TPV device configuration can be used in practical applications, avoiding frictional losses and clearance problems without any moving parts.