Thermal energy harvesting device using ferromagnetic materials

Abstract

A unique concept for harvesting electrical energy from thermal energy is presented. A thermomechanical actuator was fabricated using ferromagnetic material. The device converts thermal energy into mechanical energy, which can be converted into electrical energy using piezoelectric materials. Magnetic force and operating frequency were measured on the device. Results show that the current power density at ΔT=50K is between 1.85 and 3.61mW∕cm2. A thermal finite element analysis model is also presented to understand the influence of thermal interface, suggesting that increases of 18.5mW∕cm2 or higher are achievable.