Performance evaluation and parametric optimum design of irreversible thermionic generators based on van der Waals heterostructures. (1st December 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Qiu, Susu; Ding, Zemin; Chen, Lingen
• Is Part Of: Energy conversion and management. Volume 225(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-12-01
• Subjects: Finite time thermodynamics -- Non-equilibrium thermodynamics -- Thermionic generator -- Heat transfer effect -- Performance optimization -- Van der Waals heterostructure; Direct energy conversion -- Periodicals; Energy storage -- Periodicals; Energy transfer -- Periodicals; Énergie -- Conversion directe -- Périodiques; Direct energy conversion; Periodicals; 621.3105
• DOI: 10.1016/j.enconman.2020.113360
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0196-8904

Abstract

Highlights: An irreversible thermionic generator model with various irreversibilities is proposed. It utilizes structure of van der Waals heterostructure. Combination of non-equilibrium thermodynamics and finite time thermodynamics is applied. Analytical expressions of efficiency and output power are derived. Optimal performance regions of thermionic generator are determined. Abstract: An irreversible thermionic generator model utilizing the structure of van der Waals heterostructure is proposed, in which various irreversibilities are taken into account. Analytical expressions of efficiency and output power of the thermionic generator are derived by the combination of non-equilibrium thermodynamics and finite time thermodynamics. Relations among thermionic generator performances and key parameters, such as output voltages, Schottky barrier heights and various irreversibilities, are numerically investigated. The optimal performance regions of the thermionic generator are determined. To ensure that the thermionic generator works in the optimal performance regions, the output voltages need to be carefully modulated in practical designs.