Ultra-High Temperature Thermoelectrics Navy SBIR FY2015.1 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2015.1 Topic No.: N151-068 Topic Title: Ultra-High Temperature Thermoelectrics Proposal No.: N151-068-0800 Firm: eM-TECH, Inc 179 Bear Hill Rd. Suite 100 Waltham, Massachusetts 02451 Contact: Paul Czubarow Phone: (781) 609-2722 Web Site: www.em-tech.us Abstract: Hypersonic vehicles need compact, high temperature capable power sources since batteries are not sufficiently compact and require insulation. A thermoelectric (TE) energy-harvesting system converts thermal energy into electricity by taking advantage of the temperature difference between two surfaces. The objective of this effort is to increase the temperature limits of current TE materials from approximately 600 �C to 1250 �C while achieving a figure of merit (ZT) above 1. During Phase I we will develop thermoelectric generator concepts using thermally stable silicon carbide nanofibers. The nanofibers will be aligned and encapsulated in thermally stable aerogel to insulate the hot from the cold side and improve the figure of merit. The materials will be characterized by determining electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity, and the Seebeck coefficient as a function of temperature up to the expected maximum use temperature. We will develop predictions of expected TE figure of merit and thermoelectric efficiency. If awarded a Phase I Option, the materials will be characterized by SEM and TEM to image grain and lattice structure of materials heated to a maximum of 1250 �C and the images will be used to understand the morphology and structure of the TE devices. Benefits: The thermoelectric generator would be used to harvest energy from waste heat sources and generate power from solar energy sources. Applications for the SiC nanofibers include high temperature filters such as Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF) which required continuous use at around 700 �C. Another application would be as reinforcement for antiballistic armor and other ceramic matrix composites. The high temperature aerogel would find application for insulating high temperature processes and as thermal protection for hypersonic vehicles. Return