ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 1

Introduction

Background of the Study

In this country, rising of the temperature is apparent because of the effect on the global

warming. Global warming affects not only our country but, all over the world. One factor which

contributes global warming is electricity generation. Many gadgets like laptops, cell phones and

other appliances are invented nowadays. Even if those gadgets can be charged with a minimal

power, the number of those gadgets charged regularly every day contributes to everyday power

consumption. Charging gadgets have a very big percentage of everyday power consumption in

the whole world. That is why Electric companies are forced to generate the bigger amount of

electricity in order to sustain the need of the consumers. Electric companies usually generate

electrical energy from fossil fuels which emit unwanted chemicals that contribute to worsening

of global warming.Excessive emission of unwanted chemicals and carbon dioxide affects natural

resources which people are using every day , Agricultural products to be specific is the most

affected in this situation that is why lessening carbon emissions and chemicals are the first thing

to consider. Global warming also the reason why extreme heat is felt in the Philippines which is

dealt by excessive carbon emissions emitted by electric resources and some energy resources

which are used by industry every day.

In this era of increasing energy costs, decreasing supplies of fossil fuels and harmful

effects of conventional sources of energy, emphasis on protecting the environment and creating

sustainable forms of power have become vital, high priority projects for modern society. These
ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 2

things have been greatly emphasizedwhy James Bratley in the article, “The Importance of

Renewable Energy Resources” and Rose Kivi in “How does Nuclear energy affect the

environment?”

The researchers come up with the idea which is to convert excessive heat that is dealt

with global warming and reduce the power consumption by building a device which generate

electricity through wasted heat. The thermo-electric effect is the direct conversion

of temperature differences to electric voltage and vice-versa. A thermo-electric device creates a

voltage when opposite temperatures are applied to each side. Conversely, when a voltage is

applied to it, a temperature difference will occur on each side. This effect can be used to generate

electricity, by applying hot temperature on one side and cold on the other which will create a

huge temperature difference. Because the direction of heating and cooling is determined by the

polarity of the applied voltage.

In 1821 Thomas Johann Seebeck found that a circuit made from two dissimilar metals,

with junctions at different temperatures would deflect a compass magnet. Seebeck initially

believed this was due to magnetism induced by the temperature difference. However, it was

quickly realized that it was an electrical current that is induced, which by Ampere's law deflects

the magnet. More specifically, the temperature difference produces an electric potential (voltage)

which can drive an electric current in a closed circuit. Today, this is known as the Seebeck

effect.

The voltage produced is proportional to the temperature difference between the two

junctions. The proportionality constant is known as the Seebeck coefficient, and often referred to

as the thermo-electric power or thermo power. The Seebeck voltage does not depend on the
ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 3

distribution of temperature along the metals between the junctions. This is the physical basis for

a thermocouple, which is used often for temperature measurement. The voltage difference, V,

produced across the terminals of an open circuit made from a pair of dissimilar metals, A and B,

whose two junctions are held at different temperatures, is directly proportional to the difference

between the hot and cold junction temperatures.

Thermo-electricdevices are efficient in electric generation through temperature without

emitting unwanted chemicals. The voltage generated by the thermo-electric device is dependent

on the temperature difference. Amplification of hotness and coldness is recommended to the

device.Even though the device will harvest the heat energy into intense heat, amplification would

make the harvesting more efficient which makes more electricity.

The said device would be a great solution in order to solve this problem. By harvesting the

heat from the surroundings, power consumption through gadgets will be lessened and emission

of chemicals will decrease as well and if used, the reduction in energy consumption and air

pollution will be felt.

Statement of the Problem

This study aimed to develop a device that can produce electricity from wasted heat

energy from common household appliances especially the refrigerator, without exerting factors

that will affect global warming. It also seeks answers to the questions:

 How efficient is the device compared to a common thermo-electric generator?

 Is there a significant innovation developed in the device system?

ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 4

 How much voltage can the device produce?

Significance of the Study

Renewable energy technologies are eco-friendly source of energy that have lower

environmental impact than conventional energy technologies. The development of the devices

will significantly contribute to the increasing demand for renewable energy technologies. This

will primarily help people by converting the wasted heat released by common household

appliance especially refrigerators.

The significance of the study in energy generation and environmental protection in the

world of innovationmakes a difference by going beyond the limitations of thermo-electric by

making a device which is user-friendly and the thought of amplifying the temperature difference

by applying chemicals, insulations, and cooling system to produce a greater source of DC

electricity from a smaller scale device.

In Educational approach it will serve as a guide for those other researchers whose study

concernsaboutconversion of energy and give them the idea to look for some alternatives which is

considered as waste that can be used to generate electricity. It also serves as a way of introducing

the use of renewable energy by turning nothing into something; the things that were never taught

to be used as a source of electricity.

In Economical approach, by using the device, it will lessen the consumption of

commercial electricity and lessen the factors that affect global warming. It will also help the
ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 5

consumer of electricity to lessen their consumption thus they lessen their electrical bills. With

this, they can have more savings where they can use money into more important matters.

In Technological approach, this study will introduce the use of waste heat energy coming from

the environment and convert it to a useful form of energy. By developing this technology and use

it regularly, it will make a great change in our economy and in the environment as well.

In Community approach, it will help the people to become more concerned about the

environment and the effect of the climate change. It will serve as an example for the people to

protect the environment and use it in a more productive way.

Scope and Delimitation

The researchers aim on the efficiency of the device by amplifying the temperature

difference between the hot and cold side of the device. This will consider the design of the

device. Inthe cooling system, maintaining the flow of water to dissipate the heat transferred from

the hot side and the possible cost of the device by using recycled materials. This device is a kind

of a transducer which converts heat energy and its absence in its opposite sides into electrical

energy. It has the ability to provide anideal output voltage of48V(∆T=100), and 25 watts of

electrical power and a minimum voltage of 4.5V in order to charge 6 voltslead acid battery. The

device is portable but a lot heavier and preferred to be placedon a stable surface or mounted

plows.The device cannot directly charge an electronic gadget due to an inconsistent output

voltage which corresponds to temperature changethat is why it isconnected to a rechargeable

battery which will be inverted in order to charge other devices. The device will not be efficient if
ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 6

the weather too cold and too hot because thedevice needsroom temperature. Direct contact with

flame is prohibited.
ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 7

Literature Review

This chapter discusses literature and studies which have a bearing to the studies as

reviewed by the researchers to enrich the knowledge about the study. With the topic mainly

concerned with converting wasted heat energy into a useful source of electricity, the proponent’s

main aim is to produce an innovative device involving renewable energy. Researchers will state

the relative topics of the said project and will formulate hypothesis regarding for the outcomes of

the research.

Related Literature/Studies:

Thermo-electric device is a type of transducer which converts heat energy into an

electrical energy. David Michael Row of Cardiff school of engineering described that a thermo-

electric converter is a solid-state heat engine in which the electron gas serves as the working

fluid and converts a flow of heat into electricity. It has no moving components, is silent, totally

scalable and extremely reliable.

In the article “Thermo-electric Power Generation Using Waste-Heat Energy as an

Alternative Green Technology”, ISMAIL and AHMED (2008), in the recent years, an increasing

concern of environmental issues of emissions observed, in particular global warming and the

limitations of energy resources has resulted in extensive research into novel technologies for

generating electrical power. It was stated that thermo-electric power generators have emerged as

a promising alternative green technology due to their distinct advantages. Thermo-electric power

generation offers a potential application in the direct conversion of waste-heat energy into
ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 8

electrical power where it is unnecessary to consider the cost of the thermal energy input. The

application of this alternative green technology in converting waste-heat energy directly into

electrical power can also improve the overall efficiencies of energy conversion systems. With

this article, the researchers found out that green technology is not impossible and there are many

ways to convert waste energy especially heat into a useful energy that is environment friendly.

Thermo-electric effect offers many advantages, ISMAIL and AHMED (2008), enumerated those

advantages over other technologies

 They are extremely reliable (typically exceed 100,000 hours of steady-state operation)

and silent in operation since they have no mechanical moving parts and require

considerably less maintenance;

 They are simple, compact and safe;

 They have very small size and virtually weightless;

 They are capable of operating at elevated temperatures;

 They are suited for small-scale and remote applications typical of rural powersupply,

where there is limited or no electricity;

 They are environmentally friendly;

 Theyare not positioned-dependent; and

 They are flexible power sources.

There are many strategies to recover waste heat energy , according to the article “Thermal

Management of Portable Electronic Equipment using Thermo-electric Energy Conversion,

Solbrekken, et al.,” The direct attach design strategy has been effectively used in applications of
ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 9

waste heat recovery, such as using the hot exhaust from conventional power plants or vehicles. In

those applications the temperature of the heat source (exhaust) is generally not of primary

concern. However, using the heat generated from the CPU in the direct attach configuration

causes the junction temperature to exceed the maximum specification value, considering that

conventional off-the-shelf TE modules have thermal resistances on the order of 15 K/W. This

probably is one of the reasons why TE generation in electronic systems has not been explored

more thoroughly. At this time, the shunt attaches concept is introduced as a solution for keeping

the junction temperature below a specified value. The concept is based on the idea that by

controlling the amount of heat flow that goes through the TE module, the junction temperature

can be maintained at or below the specified value. The rest of the heat flow is then shunted

through an alternate path and dissipated using any conventional means. The TE module still

requires a heat sink of its own, referred to here as the primary heat sink.

With regards to this article, the researchers decided to acquire this strategy by attaching heat

sink to thermo-electric with some chemicals for the amplification of the cooling system of the

device.

According to “A Study of Heat Sink Performance in Air and Soil for Use in a Thermo-electric

Energy Harvesting Device” by E.E Lawrence, the behavior of heat sink has a big factor in the

generation of voltage with respect to the thermal sensitivity and ventilation of the device. The

thermo electric device generates voltage through temperature difference on each side. By using

efficient heat sink on the cold side of the device, the thermo-electric can possibly generate

voltage efficiencies. In designing an efficient heat sink, the type of metal for ventilation is also
ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 10

considered in making the heat sink. Thermal conductivity of metal and thermal capacity of the

material is determined in order to select an efficient metal for the said application.

Thermal
Temperature
Conductivity
Metal - t -
- k -
o
( F)
(Btu/(hr oF ft))

Admiralty Brass 68 64

68 118

Aluminum, pure 200 124

400 144

Aluminum Bronze 68 44

Antimony 68 10.7

Beryllium 68 126

Beryllium Copper 68 38

Bismuth 68 4.9

Cadmium 68 54
ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 11

Thermal
Temperature
Conductivity
Metal - t -
- k -
o
( F)
(Btu/(hr oF ft))

Carbon Steel, max 0.5% C 68 31

68 21

Carbon Steel, max 1.5% C 752 19

2192 17

Cartridge brass (UNS C26000) 68 69.4

Cast Iron, Gray 70 27 – 46

Chromium 68 52

Cobalt 68 40

Copper, pure 68 223

Copper Bronze (75% Cu, 25% Sn) 68 15

Copper brass (70% Cu, 30% Zi) 68 64

Cupronickel 68 17

Gold 68 182

Table 1 Thermal conductivity of metals

ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 12

According to Table 1, copper has 223 thermallyconducted on 68 degree Fahrenheit. This

explains that copper is good at conducting temperature and also commonly used in different

applications. Copper is a ductile metal with very high thermal and electrical conductivity. Pure

copper is soft and malleable; a freshly exposed surface has a reddish-orange color. Aluminum is

also commercially used and very commonly used in different applications but, the thermal

conductivity of aluminum is fairly accepted which ranges 118 to 68 degree Fahrenheit. The

selection of metals will have a great effect on the efficiency of the device with regards on

thermal conducting and thermal ventilation.

In the article “Thermo-electric Power Generation Using Waste-Heat Energy as an

Alternative Green Technology”, ISMAIL and AHMED (2008), attempts were made to improve

the competitiveness of thermo-electrics in directions other than by improving the figure-of-merit.

In particular, efforts are also focused on increasing the electrical power factor, decreasing cost

and developing environmentally friendly materials. In addition to this, when the fuel cost is low

or essentially free, as in waste heat recovery, then the cost per watt is mainly determined by the

power per unit area and the operating period. For example, considering the electrical power

factor as the dominant parameter, it has initiated a search for materials with high power factors

rather than conversion efficiency. Considerable success has been enjoyed in Synthesizing

materials, particularly attractive for waste heat recovery. For example, it is reported in that the

rare earth compounds YbAl3, although possessing a relatively low figure-of-merit, has a power

factor at least double that of any other reported in the literature, which operates over the
ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 13

temperature range of a waste heat source. When compared to YbAl3, MgSn has almost the same

performance but costs less than 25%.

In the article “Thermal Management of Portable Electronic Equipment Using Thermo-electric

Energy Conversion” by Gary L. Solbrekken, Kazuaki Yazawa, and Avram Bar-Cohen, it was

concluded that energy consumption by the thermal solution of portable electronic equipment can

be seen as a non-value added feature that drains battery life. For this reason, it is proposed to use

the waste heat from the CPU to generate electricity using a TE (thermo-electric) module. The

said research used CPU as the source of heat. The generated electricity can then be used to drive

the cooling fan, allowing the thermal solution to be decoupled from the device battery. It was

said in the previous design strategy for using TE generation described in a patent by Suski was

shown to be limited to CPU heat dissipations of less than 10W. A novel new approach, the shunt

attaches configuration, is proposed in this study to expand the acceptable operating range of TE

generation, while still keeping the CPU temperature below 85 OC. Based on the parametric

study presented it was shown that on the order of 100 mW of electric power could be generated

in a portable equipment configuration. When this is compared with the 50 mW of electricity

needed to drive a custom built micro-fan in a prototype described by Solbrekken. It was also

stated that, the parametric study was conducted by assuming a nominal value for each of the

parameters listed. The nominal values chosen are shown in Table 2. Each parameter is then

varied independently according to the range shown in Table 1, while the remaining parameters

are held at the nominal value. In all cases the net generated power is evaluated while the
ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 14

junction temperature is maintained at a constant 85 oC, except for the first study that illustrates

the high junction temperature that results when using the direct attach configuration.

Figure 1. Net Generated Power Variation with Heat Source Generation for Nominal Direct

Attach Configuration

Figure 2. Generated Power Variation with Heat Source Generation for Nominal Direct Attach

Configuration
ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 15

Table 2. TE Generation Model Parameters and Evaluation Limits

The researchers chose copper as a medium on the hot side of the thermo-electricdevice.

The hot side of the thermo-electricdevice will be subjected on hot surfaces which will be the

household refrigerator. Copper is a good conductor of temperature, therefore the hot temperature

will easily reach the device. On the cold side of the device, the researchers will use aluminum as

a ventilation medium. Aluminum is a fairly good conductor of heat. It is commercially available

at low cost. Aluminum is good for ventilation and absorbing heat which is good for dissipating

heat. Good ventilation on the heat sink is good for the cold side of the device to reduce the heat
ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 16

and to create a good temperature difference on the thermo-electric that is proportional to the

generation of the voltage.

The researchers apply chemicals on each side for amplification of temperature before

reaching the device. A chemical (sodium hydroxide), which releases heat upon reaction

(Exothermic reaction) is used on the hot side. On the cold side, chemical (glycerol) that react in

which the system absorbs energy from the surroundings in the form of heat (Endothermic

reaction). The researchers designed the copper and aluminum materials in a form of a container

which will hold the chemicals that will serve as a temperature amplifiers.

Fig. 3. Schematic diagram showing components and arrangement of a typical single-stage

thermoelectric power generator.
ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 17

Ventilation techniques applicable to the plant addressed in this report include dilution and local

exhaust techniques. But in the device, the researchers do not use ventilation techniques but

instead they use simple heat sinks for cooling. Glycerol is a great substance for cooling because

it dissipates the heat it absorbed and exchanges it to a cooler temperature.

To the hot side of the device, chemical which produces heat when reaction and absorbs

heat quickly is used which is called Sodium hydroxide. Sodium Hydroxide is referred to

aslye,sodiumhydroxideis a chemical compound with a high alkaline content. When it is subjected

to water, it will dissolve and perform exothermalprocess which produces heat. It will become a

clear aqueous substance after the reaction. Sodium Hydroxide is very corrosive that is why the

researchers will use copper plates to endure the corrosive effect of the chemical. Sodium

hydroxide when subjected to heat, the water will evaporate and the sodium hydroxide will be like

aerosol droplets. Since it is enclosed in a container, it will be trapped and will form back to

crystals again. Sodium itself is an element which can be seen in salt (NaCl), sodium itself is a

good conductor of heat and electricity that is why heat travel easily to it. Salt is the main

ingredients in making sodium hydroxide, it is made by the process called “electrolysis” which is

the liquid is subjected to a high voltage electricity. Sodium hydroxide has the property of salt

therefore, is has the ability to absorb heat easily and amplify with the help of the metal

conductors.

With that idea, the researchers come up to create a device that also generates electricity

that is enough to charge a battery of cell phones but instead of using combustion heat sources ,

the researcher will use different chemicals for the amplification of the heat and the cold side of

the thermo-electric device.

ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 18

The researchers’ expected that this device will help to reduce energy consumption by

30%. The device will be able to sustain the power consumption of devices through charging. The

device will last until the battery will malfunction and be replaced in order to be used again for a

stable running condition. The device chemical amplifiers will be maintained periodically to

maintain its high efficiency performance. The device will only charge devices with voltages

ranging 5V below.

Figure 4. Research Paradigm

Input Process Output

Knowledge Planning
Requirements *Electrical Components
*Thermo-electricity … …Evaluation
*Initial Simulation
*Physics (thermal *Designing
…conductivity and
…specificheat) Hardware Development
*PCB Express *Heat Sink Designing
*Cooling System Thermo-electric
*MULTISIM
…Designing Power Generation
*AUTOCAD *PCB Designing from Amplified
*PCB Developing
Temperature
*Electronic Components
Air Difference
Hardware Requirements …Integration

*Thermo-electric Experiment and Testing

Feedback
…generator *Mixing of the chemical
*Copper and Aluminum …solution
*Actual Simulation
…sheet
Figureplate/ Heat sink
1. Research *Temperature and
*Rectifier …Voltage Measurement
*Time duration
*Capacitor
*Diode
*Regulator
*Battery
*Sodium Hydroxide
*Glycerol
ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 19

The figure shows the research paradigm used the proponents, INPUT’s are knowledge and

hardware requirements used in the development. These things are the basics that the researchers

should know. While the part of the PROCESS, the proponents used a flowchart; evaluated and

simulated the possible electrical components to be used.At the end of the hardware development

is experiment and testing, actual simulation will be processed. These are also the actualization of

the theoretical concept of the device. The final OUTPUT of the research is based on the INPUT

and OUTPUT of the proposed device system.

Hypothesis

This is the proponent’s tentative explanation for an observation, phenomenon or scientific

problem that can be tested by further investigation.

The study will revolve around the following hypothesis.

 With the aid of the chemicals as amplifiers, thedevice is more efficient compared to a

conventional thermo-electric generator.

 Innovative amplification of temperature differences were harvested by using sodium

hydroxide and glycerol as amplifiers.

 The device can produce 4.5 to 13.8 volts DC and a maximum current of 1.53 ampere

which are stabilized by different electronic components such as rectifier, regulator,

and capacitor.
ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 20

Definition of Terms

Aluminum

Aluminum is the third most abundant element (after oxygen and silicon), and the most abundant

metal, in the Earth's crust. It makes up about 8% by weight of the Earth's solid surface.

Aluminum metal is so chemically reactive that native specimens are rare and limited to extreme

reducing environments. Instead, it is found combined in over 270 different minerals. The chief

ore of aluminum is bauxite. Aluminum is remarkable for the metal's low density and for its

ability to resist corrosion due to the phenomenon of passivation. Structural components made

from aluminum and its alloys are vital to the aerospace industry and are important in other areas

of transportation and structural materials. The most useful compounds of aluminum, at least on a

weight basis, are the oxides and sulfates.

Chemical Reaction

The chemical reaction is a process that leads to the transformation of one set of chemical

substances to another. Classically, chemical reactions encompass changes that strictly involve the

motion of electrons in the forming and breaking of chemical bonds between atoms, and can often

be described by a chemical equation. The substance (or substances) initially involved in a

chemical reaction are called reactants or reagents. Chemical reactions are usually characterized

by a chemical change, and they yield one or more products, which usually have properties

different from the reactants. Reactions often consist of a sequence of individual sub-steps, the so-

called elementary reactions, and the information on the precise course of action is part of the

reaction mechanism. Chemical reactions are described by chemical equations, which graphically
ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 21

present the starting materials, end products, and sometimes intermediate products and reaction

conditions.

Copper

Copper is a chemical element with the symbol Cu and atomic number 29. It is a ductile metal

with very high thermal and electrical conductivity. Pure copper is soft and malleable; a freshly

exposed surface has a reddish-orange color. It is used as a conductor of heat and electricity, a

building material, and a constituent of various metal alloys. The metal and its alloys have been

used for thousands of years. In the Roman era, copper was principally mined on Cyprus, hence

the origin of the name of the metal as сyprium (metal of Cyprus), later shortened to сuprum. Its

compounds are commonly encountered as copper (II) salts, which often impart blue or green

colors to minerals such as turquoise and have been widely used historically as pigments.

Architectural structures built with copper corrode to give green verdigris (or patina). Decorative

art prominently features copper, both by itself and as part of pigments.

Current

Electric current is a flow of electric charge through a conductive medium.. In electric circuits this

charge is often carried by moving electrons in a wire. It can also be carried by ions in an

electrolyte, or by both ions and electrons such as in a plasma. The SI unit for measuring the rate

of flow of electric charge is the ampere, which is charge flowing through some surface at the rate

of one coulomb per second. Electric current is measured using an ammeter.

ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 22

DC-DC Converter

DC-to-DC converter is an electronic circuit which converts a source of direct current (DC) from

one voltage level to another. It is a class of the power converter. Electronic switch-mode DC to

DC converters convert one DC voltage level to another, by storing the input energy temporarily

and then releasing that energy to the output of a different voltage. The storage may be in either

magnetic field storage components (inductors, transformers) or electric field storage components

(capacitors). This conversion method is more power efficient (often 75% to 98%) than linear

voltage regulation (which dissipates unwanted power as heat). This efficiency is beneficial to

increasing the running time of battery operated devices. The efficiency has increased since the

late 1980s due to the use of power FETs, which are able to switch at high frequency more

efficiently than power bipolar transistors, which incur more switching losses and require a more

complicated drive circuit. Another important innovation in DC-DC converters is the use of

synchronous rectification replacing the flywheel diode with a power FET with low "on

resistance", thereby reducing switching losses.

Direct Current

Direct current (DC) is the unidirectional flow of electric charge. Direct current is produced by

sources such as batteries, thermocouples, solar cells, and commutator-type electric machines of

the dynamo type. Direct current may flow in a conductor such as a wire, but can also flow

through semiconductors, insulators, or even through a vacuum as in electron or ion beams. The

electric charge flows in a constant direction, distinguishing it from alternating current (AC). A

term formerly used for direct current was galvanic current.

ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 23

Electricity

Electricity is the set of physical phenomena associated with the presence and flow of electric

charge. Electricity gives a wide variety of well-known effects, such as lightning, static electricity,

electromagnetic induction and the flow of electrical current. In addition, electricity permits the

creation and reception of electromagnetic radiation such as radio waves.

Endothermic Reaction

Endothermic describes a process or reaction in which the system absorbs energy from the

surroundings in the form of heat. It is a modern coinage from Greek roots. The prefix and-

derives from the Greek word "Endon" meaning "within," and the latter part of the word comes

from the Greek word root "therm" meaning "hot." The intended sense is that of a reaction that

depends on taking in heat if it is to proceed. The opposite of an endothermic process is an

exothermic process, one that releases, "gives out" energy in the form of heat.

Energy Conversion

Energy transformation or energy conversion is the process of changing one form of energy to

another. In physics, the term energy describes the capacity to produce certain changes within a

system, without regard to limitations in transformation imposed by entropy. Changes in total

energy of systems can only be accomplished by adding or subtracting energy from them, as

energy is a quantity which is conserved, according to the first law of thermodynamics. According

to special relativity, changes in the energy of systems will also coincide with changes in the

system's mass, and the total amount of mass of a system is a measure of its energy.
ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 24

Exothermic Reaction

Exothermic reaction is a chemical reaction that releases energy in the form of light or heat. It is

the opposite of an endothermic reaction. An exothermic reaction is a chemical reaction that is

done by the release of heat. It gives out energy to its surroundings. The energy needed for the

reaction to occur is less than the total energy released. When using a calorie meter, the change in

heat of the calorimeter is equal to the opposite of the change in heat of the system. This means

that when the medium in which the reaction is taking place gains heat, the reaction is exothermic.

Glycerol

Glycerol or glycerine/glycerine, is a simple polyol compound. It is a colorless, odorless, viscous

liquid that is widely used in pharmaceutical formulations. Glycerol has three hydroxyl groups

that are responsible for its solubility in water and its hygroscopic nature. The glycerol backbone

is central to all lipids known as triglycerides. Glycerol is sweet-tasting and of low toxicity

Heat Capacity

Heat capacity (usually denoted by a capital C, often with subscripts), or thermal capacity, is the

measurable physical quantity that characterizes the amount of heat required to change a

substance's temperature by a given amount. In the International System of Units (SI), heat

capacity is expressed in units of joule(s) (J) per Kelvin (K).

Heat

Heat is energy transferred from one system to another by thermal interaction. In contrast to work,

heat is always accompanied by a transfer of entropy. Heat flow is characteristic of macroscopic

objects and systems, but its origin and properties can be understood in terms of their microscopic
ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 25

constituents. Heat flow from a high to a low temperature body occurs spontaneously. This flow

of energy can be harnessed and partially converted into useful work by means of a heat engine.

The second law of thermodynamics prohibits the heat flow from a low to a high temperature

body, but with the aid of a heat pump external work can be used to transport energy from low to

the high temperature.

Heat sinks

The heat sink is a passive component that cools a device by dissipating heat into the surrounding

air. Heat sinks are used to cool electronic components such as high-power semiconductor

devices, and optoelectronic devices such as high-power lasers and light emitting diodes (LEDs).

Heat sinks are heat exchangers such as those used in refrigeration and air conditioning systems,

or the radiator in an automobile. A heat sink is designed to increase the surface area in contact

with the cooling medium surrounding it, such as the air. Approach air velocity, choice of

material, fin (or other protrusion) design and surface treatment are some of the factors which

affect the thermal performance of a heat sink.

Power

Electric power, like mechanical power, is the rate of doing work, measured in watts, and

represented by the letter P. The term wattage is used colloquially to mean "electric power in

watts." The electric power in watts produced by an electric current I consisting of a charge of Q

coulombs every seconds passing through an electric potential (voltage) difference of V

ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 26

Seebeck effect

Seebeck effect is the conversion of temperature differences directly into electricity and is named

for the German physicist Thomas Johann Seebeck, who, in 1821 discovered that a compass

needle would be deflected by a closed loop formed by two metals joined in two places, with a

temperature difference between the junctions. This was because the metals responded differently

to the temperature difference, creating a current loop and a magnetic field. Seebeck did not

recognize there was an electric current involved, so he called the phenomenon the

thermomagnetic effect. Danish physicist Hans Christian Ørsted rectified the mistake and coined

the term "thermoelectricity". The voltage created by this effect is of the order of several

microvolts per Kelvin difference. One such combination, copper-constantan, has a Seebeck

coefficient of 41 microvolts per Kelvin at room temperature.

Sodium Hydroxide

Sodium hydroxide, also known as lye or caustic soda, has the molecular formula NaOH and is a

highly caustic metallic base. It is a white solid available in pellets, flakes, granules, and as a 50%

saturated solution. Sodium hydroxide is soluble in water, ethanol and methanol. These alkali are

deliquescent and readily absorbs moisture and carbon dioxide in the air. Sodium hydroxide is

used in many industries, mostly as a strong chemical base in the manufacture of pulp and paper,

textiles, drinking water, soaps and detergents and as a drain cleaner. Worldwide production in

2004 was approximately 60 million tons, while demand was 51 million tons. Although molten

sodium hydroxide possesses properties similar to those of the other forms, its high temperature

comparatively limits its applications.

ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 27

Temperature

Temperature is a physical property of matter that quantitatively expresses the common notions of

hot and cold. Objects of low temperature are cold, while various degrees of higher temperatures

are referred to as warm or hot. When a heat transfer path between them is open, heat

spontaneously flows from the bodies of a higher temperature to bodies of lower temperature. The

flow rate increases with the temperature difference, while no heat will be exchanged between

bodies of the same temperature, which are then said to be in "thermal equilibrium".

Thermo-electric Generator

Thermo-electric generators, also called thermo generators are devices which convert heat

(temperature differences) directly into electrical energy, using a phenomenon called the "Seebeck

effect" or "thermo-electric effect". Their typical efficiencies are around 5-10%. Older Seebeck-

based devices used bimetallic junctions and were bulky while more recent devices use bismuth

Telluride (Bi2Te3) or lead Telluride (PbTe) semiconductor p-n junctions and can have

thicknesses in the millimeter range

Voltage

Voltage, otherwise known as electrical potential difference or electric tension (denoted ∆V and

measured in units of electric potential: volts, or joules per coulomb), is the electric potential

difference between two points — or the difference in electric potential energy of a unit test

charge transported between two points. Voltage is equal to the work which would have to be

done, per unit charge, against a static electric field to move the charge between two points. A

voltage may represent either a source of energy (electromotive force), or it may represent lost,
ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 28

used, or stored energy (potential drop). A voltmeter can be used to measure the voltage (or

potential difference) between two points in a system.

ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 29

Methodology

This chapter discusses the project development, project design; testing procedures as well

as an evaluation procedure used were emphasized. Outline and series of method and procedure

were constructed to gather all the data needed.

Research Instrument

Prototype Development

The proponents designed a prototype that will protect the thermo-electric generator

from being damaged whenever a pressure was applied to it. The strength of the prototype was

also considered such as the material to be used. The detailed dimension of the prototype is very

important to assure that it will protect the thermo-electric generator. AUTOCAD was used to

give the accurate dimensions and final design of the prototype. Adjustments to the dimensions

were made if the actual prototype design was not attained. After such specifications are met, the

prototype was tested to determine its efficiency.

Experimental Method

The proponents conducted several component testing to come up with precise ideas

to finalize the whole system. Reliability and accuracy of the whole system has been tested for

many times and based from the result of all data, the researchers came up to define the reliability

and accuracy of the system. Through this method the proponents developedthe system to more

accurate and reliable. This method was used by the proponents to collect data that will help them

to better understand the system. The method defines with appropriate interpretation, which
ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 30

includes the data gathering and designing researched instruments to gather information. The

proponents used experimental method by conducting several test. The proponents determined the

different outputs based on the given inputs and or conditions.

Nature of Study

The researcher used qualitativemethodology with the aid of experiments to develop

renewable and innovative source of electrical energy which solves one of the problems that the

country is facing today; shortage of alternative source of energy. Climate change is one of the

major problems that the world is facing especially those of tropical countries which the rise of

temperature is felt. To this problem, we get the idea of harvesting those heats and convert it into

to electricity. The researchers improve the idea of those recent research projects about thermo-

electric so that it will be more efficient, better user interface and eco-friendly. The researchers

focused on chemicals which will amplify the heat from refrigerators. The chemicals serve as

amplifiers which will be able to maximize the temperature difference in order to gain the voltage

desired on the said thermo-electric device.

Data Gathering Procedure

Gathering of data is not as easy as it seems. It requires resourcefulness and patience. The

researchers did their best and exerted a lot of effort in achieving the objectives. Despite of the

short period of time given to the researchers, they still make the most out of it. The researchers

used the internet to look for the relative articles and critiques they are studying.
ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 31

The ieee.explore.org is the reliable sources of information that give the researchers the

knowledge needed upon executing the proposal. The researchers interviewed groups of

individual to gather ideas and techniques, such as their professors and other proficient persons,

which have already the knowledge about the study. They will also be conducting an interview

with the number of students of chemical and mechanical engineering which has the specialty on

thermodynamics. The researchers read different journals which have helped them understand and

apply the ideas they have in mind. They also used their preview books which were also related

to their study and read them hastily, perhaps jotting down on a sheet of paper references to the

portions or pages that seem important, and then go over the selected section a second time with

considerably greater care. The researchers also gather data and information by conducting

experiments to prove the capability of the researchers’ idea.

Project Development

Project developer explains the methods and procedures which will be used in the preparation of

the study. This shows the expectations and the possible methods that the researchers will

undergo.

Part of the refrigerator: Why is it is hot? What it does? Why it happens? What happens next?

1) Evaporator

- The evaporator allows the liquid refrigerant to evaporate as gas. The evaporation results in a

dramatic drop in temperature. It becomes icy-cold.

ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 32

- The very cold liquid refrigerant is cycled to the heat-exchanging tubes inside the refrigerator.

The tubes then let the refrigerant absorb heat from the food compartment, making the refrigerant

change its state from liquid to gas.

- As heat leaves, the food compartment gets colder. Meanwhile, the gaseous refrigerant is

continuously absorbing heat. The warmed gas is then cycled to the compressor.

2) Compressor

- The compressor is a mechanical device that pressurizes the warm gaseous refrigerant. It

compresses the gas refrigerant into a highly pressurized gas.

- Pressure is proportional to temperature. And since the gaseous refrigerant is now highly,

pressurized, it is also very hot too.

- The very hot gas is cycled to the condenser.

3) Condenser

- The condenser is a collection of heat-exchanging tubes at the back, outside the refrigerator.

- The very hot gas inside the condenser gives off heat to the surrounding area. The gas turns to

liquid as it loses its heat to its surroundings.

- Heat moves from warm areas to cool areas. In other words, the heat jumps from the hot tubes at

the back of the refrigerator to the cooler air in its surroundings.

- Heat leaves the refrigerator for good. The refrigerant cools, condenses and turns into a liquid.

Then refrigerant is cycled to the expansion valve.

4) Expansion Valve
ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 33

- Expansion valves removes the pressure on the liquid refrigerant, causing it to expand and lower

its temperature.

-The liquid refrigerant is then cycled back into the evaporator.

-The process repeats itself continuously until the desired setting of temperature is achieved inside

the refrigerator.

Figure 5. System Block Diagram

The figureshows the interconnections of each part of the proposed system. Each has a

specific function that is valuable to the function of the system. When the device is subjected to

heat, usually from refrigerators, heat will travel to the copper heat sink containing sodium

hydroxide then it will retain the temperature on the hot side of the thermo-electric for a longer

span of time. The thermo-electric then will have a temperature difference which is proportional

to the produced voltage. As the heat is subjected through time, heat will travel to the cold side.

The aluminum heat sink containing glycerolwith an integrated water cooling system will

dissipate the heat transferred and will retain the temperature difference from the cold side and the

hot side. When a certain voltage is generated, the battery willbe charged to store all the voltage

harvested and save it for future use.

Figure 6. Flowchart of the Whole System

With regards to the physical components, the researcher constructs the prototype that will

produce power from the thermo-electric device. If the desired design does not sustain the said

expectation, redesigning the device will be implied. Continuous testing will be performed in

order to produce the most efficient design for the device.

ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 34

A
Start

Testing of Prototype
Statement of
Problem

N Y
Background of the Does it meet the
B
study desired output

Circuit Design
Data Gathering
Procedure

Presentation &
Circuit Testing
Analysis of Data

Result and Findings

Is the Designed
Circuit Feasible?
Y
B Evaluation of
the Project

Circuit & Prototype

Development
End

A
ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 35

Testing Procedure

Step 1. Set subject the thermo-electric device to the hot surface (preferably refrigerator).

Step 2. Connect the voltmeter into the terminals to get the corresponding voltage.

Step 3. Determine if a voltage is generated from the device.

Step 4. Connect the battery for charging to store the voltage harvested.

Step 5. Measure the current across the load while the system is operating.

Step 6. Compute for the power by multiplying the current by the load voltage.

Step 7. If the system is properly working, it now can be used as a source of power.

Inlet

Outlet

Figure 7 & 8: Water cooling system

ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 36

The figure shows the water flow in inlet and outlet of the Aluminum in order to dissipate the heat

absorbed by the cold side. Every time you open the faucet you help to maintain the absence of

heat for the cold side which means greater voltage to produce.

Outlet Inlet
Evaluation Procedure

To enhance the capabilities of the system, an evaluation from different perspective of

individuals can be made. Everyone can evaluate the system since the system user friendly and

does not require a high level of technical knowledge.

Evaluating the system can be done anytime and anywhere. Evaluation can be conducted

through interviews and questionnaires. Recommendations are also needed to know if it needs

more improvements.

Overall the research is very systematic, comprehensive, and it will really influencepeople

with the innovation of green technology. People will easily understand how the prototype works

and how to use it.

ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 37
ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 38

Data and Results

Figure 9 &10: Prototype Design

Cold side Aluminum

containing
glycerol

Insulator

Copper
Hot side containing
sodium
hydroxide
ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 39

Figure 11: Schematic Diagram of the system

Output voltage
4.5-13.8 V DC
+ -

TEG 1 TEG 5

TEG 2 TEG 6

TEG 3 TEG 7

TEG 4 TEG 8

Eight thermo-electric generators are connected in series in order to produce an

amplified voltage of 4.5 to 13.8 V DC. Each TEG has a maximum power of 25 watts. At 10

degrees Celsius temperature difference each TEG produce 0.9 V summing up to 4.5 V for the

whole circuit.
ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 40

Figure 12: Schematic diagram of the charger

The device should provide 4.5-7 volts to achieve 8.41 watts (see Table 4). This power goes to a

6V lead acid battery in parallel with the device, which is protected from overcharging by a 6.8V

Zener diode. A diode is added between the device and the battery to keep the battery from

discharging across the thermoelectric. The power produced by the device and that stored in the

battery is fed through a DC/DC buck converter to bring the output down to 5V. That 5V output is

in the form of a USB plug for charging mobile phones or other small electronic devices.
ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 41

100
90
80
70
temperature

60
50
40
30
20
10
0
25 mol 31.25 mol 41.67 mol 62.5 mol

Graph 1. Temperature of Solution with different concentration.

Graph 1 shows the temperature reading with respect to the concentration of NaOH. At 25 mol of

NaOH, the solution produces a temperature reading around 35 ͦC. As the concentration of NaOH

increases with the same volume of water, it can be found that the temperature also rises.

Furthermore, at 62.5 mol of NaOH (about 250g of NaOH crystals), the temperature reading of 95

ͦC was recorded with a temperature difference of 68 ͦfrom the cold side (considering that the

cold side is in room temperature: 27 ͦC) and yields a voltage output of about 13.3V (refer to

Table 4).

Temperature Temperature Voltage (V) Power (W)

difference of the difference of the

Amplified thermo- conventional

ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 42

electric generator thermo-electric

generator

10 13 4.5 2.25

20 25 6.3 4.41

30 35 8.7 8.41

40 44.5 10.3 11.79

50 54.3 11.8 15.47

60 63.8 12.9 18.49

70 73.2 13.8 21.16

Table 4.

The table shows the voltage and power produced by the device with the corresponding

temperature differences. The load being supplied by the thermoelectric with the corresponding

temperature difference is a small DC motor with an internal resistance of 9 ohms. By measuring

the voltage being produced (connecting the voltmeter in parallel with the load), we can solve for

the power generated by using the formula V2/R. Also notice that smaller increase in voltage is

observed as the temperature difference reaches a higher level. The table also shows the

temperature difference comparison of the conventional and the amplified thermo-electric

generator. It was proved that the amplified thermo-electric generator has 4.44 % to 23% more

efficiency than the conventional TEG.

ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 43

Conclusion

After conducting a series ofexperiments, analysis, and discussion, the researchers were

able toconcludethat the amplified thermo-electric generator can produce higher voltage than the

conventional thermo-electric generator, which corresponds to the temperature difference. The

device can produce at least 4.5 volts and at most 13.8 volts at room temperature condition. The

prototype is 4.44% at least and 23% at most efficient than the ordinary Thermo-electric

generator. The proponents also concluded that the device has proved the innovation of chemicals

to be used as temperature difference amplifiers.

ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 44

Recommendation

After a thorough analysis of data, the following recommendations are hereby made:

For the device developed by the researchers, it is recommended that users must use the

refrigerator’s condenser wasted heat in the process that happens inside a refrigerator, meaning it

should be placed at the nearest possible location beside the condenser. Asthe liquid refrigerant

flows through an expansion valve the refrigerant moves through the hole, it moves from a high-

pressure zone to a low-pressure zone. The decrease in pressure corresponds with a decrease in

temperature. Pressure is proportional to temperature. In the evaporator, the liquid also expands

and evaporates, the evaporation of liquid takes away heat. That’s why the refrigerator is

considered as one of the common household appliance that produce constant heat.

It is also recommended that the water cooling system of the device must be placed in

series with the nearest PVC pipe connected with a hose, for the water flow, in order to maintain

the cold side’s temperature. While the user opens the faucet, the water flow automatically

takesoffthe heat absorbed by the aluminum heat sink and the glycerol. It is recommended that the

user opens the water flow from the faucet for at least ten seconds for every eight hours.

This research also study suggests that electrical engineering students should seek the

importance and application of thermodynamics for the reason that it is essentially the study of

the internal motions of many body systems. Virtually all substances which we encounter in

everyday life are many body systems of some sort or other (e.g., solids, liquids, gases, and light).

Not surprisingly, therefore, thermodynamics is a discipline with an exceptionally wide range of

ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 45

applicability. Thermodynamics is certainly the most ubiquitous subfield of Physics outside

Physics Departments. Engineers, Chemists, and Material Scientists do not study relatively or

particle physics, but thermodynamics are an integral, and very important, part of their degree

course.

People, especially engineers and engineering students, should develop innovation by making

renewable applications of waste heat, for it is one of the largest underutilized resources in the

global energy use paradigm. Technologies that can effectively harness the available energy in

otherwise “waste” heat streams can reduce primary energy requirements, but have thus far

suffered from large footprints, high first cost, and long payback periods. Miniaturized sorption

technologies that utilize the low-temperature waste heat from co-located processes offer the

potential to significantly reduce primary energy requirements for applications ranging from

building energy systems to carbon capture systems in much smaller footprints than previously

available. Research on the fundamentals of phase-change heat and mass transfer at the micro

scales and innovative technologies that enable such systems will be presented. The design,

fabrication, and experimental validation of the amplified thermo-electric generator has shown a

great impact on reducing power consumption. Thus people should apply the great help of the

device made by the researchers in order to influence the future generation to be wise and creative

in developing alternative sources of energy.

The researchers recommend that people, especially electrical engineering students should not

limit and confine their selves in the electrical engineering field but rather explore things that

would help our field to innovate things, in order to maximize our knowledge, in order to be
ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 46

creative, and in order to seek the commonly ignored possible applications of the electrical

system.
ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 47

REFERENCES

[1] G. L. Solbrekken, et al., “THERMAL MANAGEMENT OF PORTABLE ELECTRONIC

EQUIPMENT USINGTHERMOELECTRIC ENERGY CONVERSION,” Department of

Mechanical Engineering. University of Missouri – Columbia,Columbia, Missouri

[2] B.I. Ismail, W.H. Ahmed, “Thermoelectric Power Generation Using Waste-Heat Energy as an

Alternative Green Technology,” Department of Mechanical Engineering, Lakehead University,

Canada. August 1, 2008; Accepted: November 20, 2008; Revised: November 24, 2008

[3] E.E Lawrence, G.J Snyder, “A Study of Heat Sink Performance in Air and Soil for Use in a

Thermoelectric Energy Harvesting Device,” Reed College Portland, let Propulsion Laboratory

California Institute of Technology, Pasadena

[4] N.W. Ashcroft and N.D. Mermin, Solid State Physics, (Holt, Rinehart, and Winston, New

York, 1976).

[5] Pei etal., "High thermoelectric figure of merit in heavy hole dominated PbTe". Energy &

Environmental Science 4. (2011)

ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 48

[6] Fairbanks, J., “Thermoelectric Developments for Vehicular Applications”, U.S. Department

of Energy: Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. August 24, 2006.

ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 49

Appendices

Formula or Equation

Since the device has a DC (Direct Current) Source, the researchers will use this formula to test

the power of the system.

P = V2/ R

Where: P = Power (watts), R = resistance (Ohms), V = voltage (volts)

Computations:

For the Table 4. The resistance of the load was 9 ohms

P = 4.52V/ 9 ohms = 2.25 watts

P = 6.32 V/ 9 ohms = 4.41 watts

P = 8.72 V/ 9 ohms = 8.41 watts

P = 10.32 V/ 9 ohms = 11.79 watts

P = 11.82 V/ 9 ohms = 15.47 watts

P = 12.92 V/ 9 ohms = 18.49 watts

P = 13.82 V/ 9 ohms = 21.16 watts

ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 50

Properties of Glycerol

1) Molecular weight = 92.09

2) Melting point =18. 17ºC

3) Boiling point (760mm Hg) = 290ºC

4) Density (20ºC) =1. 261 g/cm3

5) Vapor pressure = 0.0025 mm Hg at 50ºC

= O.195 mm Hg at 100ºC

= 4.3 mm Hg at 150ºC

= 46 mm Hg at 200ºC

6) Refractive index = 1.474

7) Surface tension = 63.4 dyne/cm at 20ºC (100% glycerol)

8) Compressibility (28.5ºC) = 2.1×10 MPa

9) Viscosity = 1499 c.p. At 20ºC (100% glycerol)

10) Specific heat = 0.5779 cal/gm at 26ºC(99.94%glycerol)

11) Heat of vaporization = 21060 cal/mole at 55ºC

= 18170 cal/mole at 195ºC

12) Heat of formation = 159.6 Kcal/gm mole

Solving for Exothermic Reaction of NaOH mixed with water

ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 51

𝑔
Molar Mass of NaOH =39. 9971 𝑚𝑜𝑙

*Get the mole of 250 grams of NaOH mixed with 100mL

𝑔
Mole = 250 ÷ 39. 9971 𝑚𝑜𝑙 ÷100mL = 62.5 mol

*The enthalpy change or the amount of heat released when a reaction occurs at constant pressure

Enthalpy change of NaOH (Aqueous Soln.)

(-469.15 KJ/mol)

The negative sign indicates that it releases heat

*To get the heat energy

𝐾𝐽
62.5 mol x −469.15 𝑚𝑜𝑙 = -29 321.88 KJ

* To solve for the temperature rise of water (T2) at T1 = 25 ͦC

Q= mCpΔT

𝑄
T2 = 𝑚𝐶 + T1
𝑝

29 321.88 𝐾𝐽
= 𝐾𝐽 + 298 K
100𝑔𝑥 4.184
𝑔.𝐾
ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 52

T2 = 368.08 K = 95.08 ͦC
ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 53

PROTOTYPE PHOTOS

(Photos were taken during the experiment)

ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 54
ENERGY HARVESTING CHARGER USING THERMO-ELECTRIC AMPLIFIERS 55