Capturing & Converting Wasted Heat into Energy

I aim to create a prototype that captures wasted heat from devices and converts it into electricity to charge electronic devices.
Grade 8

Problem

The global climate crisis has intensified the urgency for a fundamental shift in energy production practices. Fossil fuel dependency and conventional energy production methods have significantly contributed to the acceleration of climate change, leading to adverse environmental and socio-economic impacts. This shows the importance of embracing green energy solutions to mitigate the unfolding crisis.

 

Fossil fuel-based energy production has been a cornerstone of the global economy for decades, powering industries, transportation, and residential electricity consumption. However, the combustion of fossil fuels, including coal, oil, and natural gas, releases copious amounts of greenhouse gasses, particularly carbon dioxide (CO2), into the atmosphere. 

 

This influx of greenhouse gasses has led to the intensification of the greenhouse effect, resulting in global warming, altered weather patterns, and the exacerbation of extreme weather events.

 

The rise in Carbon Dioxide content in the atmosphere over the years






 

My Notes:

 

What is the greenhouse effect? The U.S. Energy Information Association (IEA) explains it in the below image.

 

 
 

Beyond the climatic repercussions, conventional energy production methods linked to fossil fuels cause extensive environmental damage. The extraction, transportation, and use of fossil fuels yield detrimental effects such as air and water pollution, habitat destruction, and the destruction of natural landscapes. Ecosystems are disrupted, biodiversity is threatened, and communities in proximity to energy extraction sites experience adverse health effects. These issues underscore the importance and urgency of an immediate shift to renewable energy sources.

 

Hotter temperatures are melting the ice that polar bears live on.

 

Amidst the challenges posed by traditional energy production, the pursuit of green energy solutions emerges as a compelling solution to addressing climate change. 

 

The transition to green energy encompasses a diverse array of renewable sources, including solar, wind, hydroelectric, and geothermal power (don’t forget thermoelectric power!). These sources harness the natural abundance of energy available in the environment without depleting finite resources or contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, advancements in energy storage technologies and grid infrastructure are facilitating the integration of renewable energy sources into mainstream energy systems, enhancing their reliability and scalability.

 

Wind turbines generate energy when winds move the propeller-like blades

 

In conclusion, the intersection of energy production, climate change, and the importance of green energy underscores the critical need to rethink our approach to meeting global energy demands. By acknowledging the negative impacts of fossil fuel dependency and embracing sustainable, green energy solutions, we can chart a course toward more resilient and environmentally responsible energy production. The transition to green energy represents a pivotal opportunity to reduce climate change, preserve natural ecosystems, and foster a sustainable future for generations to come

 

Method

Method:

  1. Project Objective and Research

    • Identified the project topic: Capturing & Converting Lost Heat into Energy (using Seebeck generators and other components.)
    • Objective: Design, create, and test a prototype system to convert lost heat into usable electricity, aiming to charge a phone or similar device.
    • Completed research on the prototype's components and finished problem.

  2. Prototype Development

    • A small toaster oven was selected to emit excess heat for prototype development.
    • I noted the proximity of the oven roof to the heating element, making it suitable for the prototype.
    • Began the process of creating the prototype and documented the steps on the CYSF platform.

  3. Prototype Testing and Refinement

    • Tested the initial prototype and identified issues with insufficient heating of the generators due to heat escape.
    • Worked on a new prototype design to enhance heat conduction for improved results.
    • Completed the concept/blueprint for the latest prototype and documented the steps on the CYSF platform.

  4. Testing Plan

    • Planned to measure the temperature of the heat sources and ice to determine the minimum temperature gradient required for the prototype to work.

  5. Analysis Stage Preparation

    • Purchased measuring instruments for the analysis stage, such as a temperature gun to measure the required temperatures.

  6. Experiment:

    • Recorded the oven temperature every minute over 10 minutes and positioned the prototype on top of the oven after 5 minutes.
    • Noted the temperatures of the ice and the points at which the prototype worked and stopped functioning.
    • Graphed the observations to visualize the temperature readings and prototype performance.

  7. Prototype Testing Results:

    • The prototype was able to generate electricity from waste heat, with a minimum temperature gradient of 100 degrees Celsius.
    • However, the prototype's functionality was limited to approximately 2 minutes and 30 seconds due to ice melting and the inability to maintain the minimum temperature differential.

  8. Challenges Encountered:

    • The prototype struggled to keep the cold side of the generator cold, causing unsustainable and inefficient electricity generation.
    • I suggest the use of a heatsink to address this limitation and ensure consistent performance of the prototype.

  9. Recommendations for Additional Research:

    • Implementation of heatsinks or effective cooling methods to address the limitations encountered during testing.
    • Exploration of the actual energy efficiency of the prototype to provide insights for future iterations and potential real-world applications.
    • Optimization of the prototype's design to ensure consistent and prolonged operation under varying environmental conditions.

Insights for Future Work:

  • Further experimentation to optimize the cooling system and prolong the prototype's functionality.
  • Detailed analysis of energy generation and efficiency under different temperature differentials and environmental conditions.
  • Exploration of practical applications and potential energy savings in real-world scenarios.

Analysis

The initial aim was to design, develop, and test a prototype product capable of capturing waste heat and converting it into electricity using Seebeck generators and other readily available components. The results of the prototype testing, with a minimum temperature gradient of 100 degrees Celsius (being the temperature gap between 103° to 3°) suggest that I have reached my objective, and indicate that the prototype can indeed generate electricity from heat. However, it's important to note that the prototype's functionality was limited to approximately 2 minutes and 30 seconds due to the ice melting and then the inability to maintain the minimum temperature differential.

I plotted my findings onto this graph

Because the prototype was unable to keep the cold side of the generator cold, it is evident that an effective solution is crucial for sustained and efficient electricity generation. The use of a heatsink would make it less of a hassle to prepare and ensure consistent performance of the prototype. 

 

A heat sink is a kind of passive heat exchanger whose function is to regulate the temperature of a surface, by allowing the heat to dissipate away from it.

 

Based on my results, my recommendations for additional research could focus on implementing heatsinks or other effective cooling methods, to address the limitations encountered during testing. Additionally, exploring the actual amount of the prototype does save in terms of energy. This could provide valuable insights for future iterations and potential real-world applications. Furthermore, further research could delve into optimizing the prototype's design to ensure consistent and prolonged operation under varying environmental conditions

Conclusion

As a student passionate about sustainable energy solutions, I embarked on an innovation project to explore the potential of waste heat conversion into electricity. In this passage I reflect on the potential usage and impact of my project, delving into its creation, and inspiration, and concluding with an in-depth analysis of its potential usage and impact.

 

I aimed to design, develop, and test a prototype product capable of capturing waste heat and converting it into electricity. Using Seebeck generators and other simple/readily available components, I sought to harness waste heat emitted by everyday devices. Through testing and measurements, I eventually reached a working prototype.

 

The potential usage of the technology in capturing and converting waste heat into electricity holds significant promise across diverse applications.

 

Wasted sources of heat energy are everywhere; ranging from car exhausts to around-the-house appliances, and even nuclear reactors

 

Assessing the broader impact of my project involves considering its implications for environmental sustainability, renewable energy, and public awareness. Visual representations of the project's potential impact on reducing energy waste, mitigating environmental impact, and inspiring sustainable practices would enrich the analysis. Images portraying the technology's contribution to raising awareness about pollution, renewable energy, and innovative student initiatives would enhance the discussion.

 

To conclude my project, I firmly believe that waste heat conversion holds immense promise for shaping a more sustainable future through its ingenuity and widespread accessibility. I must acknowledge that my project, crafted from mostly around-the-house parts and pieces, does not do justice to this concept, I am optimistic that it has effectively showcased the potential applications of the Seebeck effect.

 

Citations

Works Cited:

 

  • “Energy and the environment explained Greenhouse gases.” U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), https://www.eia.gov/energyexplained/energy-and-the-environment/greenhouse-gases.php. Accessed 9 December 2023.
  • National Geographic Society. “The Keeling Curve.” National Geographic Society, National Geographic Society, 19 October 2023, https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/keeling-curve/. Accessed 9 December 2023.
  • Piggott, Alfred. “How Thermoelectric Generators Work.” Applied Thermoelectric Solutions LLC, https://thermoelectricsolutions.com/how-thermoelectric-generators-work. Accessed 9 December 2023.
  • Selin, Noelle Eckley. “Renewable energy | Types, Advantages, & Facts.” Britannica, 2 November 2023, https://www.britannica.com/science/renewable-energy. Accessed 9 December 2023.
  • McAllister, Willy. “Electric potential, voltage (article).” Khan Academy, https://www.khanacademy.org/science/electrical-engineering/ee-electrostatics/ee-fields-potential-voltage/a/ee-electric-potential-voltage. Accessed 11 December 2023.
  • Scansen, Don. “Thermoelectric Energy Harvesting.” DigiKey, 26 October 2011, https://www.digikey.com/en/articles/thermoelectric-energy-harvesting. Accessed 11 December 2023.
  • CSR Bradford - Insulation, Ventilation & Energy. “How does reflective insulation work?” YouTube, 15 March 2016, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pTJIr6_i3i8. Accessed 12 December 2023.
  • Fluke Process Instruments. “Emissivity - Metals.” Fluke Process Instruments, https://www.flukeprocessinstruments.com/en-us/service-and-support/knowledge-center/infrared-technology/emissivity-metals. Accessed 4 February 2024.
  • “How Do Infrared Thermometers Work? | INGENUITY AT WORK.” General Tools & Instruments, https://generaltools.com/blog/how-do-infrared-thermometers-work/. Accessed 4 February 2024.
  • “Waste heat.” Energy Education, https://energyeducation.ca/encyclopedia/Waste_heat. Accessed 8 February 2024.
  • Ye, Ronan. “What are heat sinks and how are they made?” 3ERP, 11 August 2021, https://www.3erp.com/blog/what-are-heat-sinks-and-how-are-they-made/. Accessed 8 February 2024.
  • “Digital Infrared Thermometer Gun -58℉ to 1112℉(-50℃ to 600℃) Adjustable Emissivity&MAX&MIN Non Contact Heat IR Thermometer Laser Temperature Gun for Cooking,Food,Pizza,Oven,Grill(not for Human).” Amazon, 9 November 2017, https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CHHRWSY7?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details&th=1. Accessed 8 February 2024.
  • “Oiyagai 5pcs PFM 600MA Control DC-DC Converter Step Up Boost Module USB Charger 0.9V-5V to 5V Power Supply Modul TE110.” Amazon.ca, https://www.amazon.ca/Willwin-Control-Converter-Charger-0-9V-5V/dp/B075ZTQFYV/ref=sr_1_5?crid=3U1B2G015V90F&keywords=0.9-5v+dc%2Fdc+boost+converter&qid=1707464002&sprefix=0+9-5v+dc%2Fdc+boost+converte%2Caps%2C143&sr=8-5. Accessed 9 February 2024.

 

Acknowledgement

I would like to express my gratitude to several people who have supported me throughout my project. First and foremost, I thank my teacher, Ms. Sara Behairy, for her guidance and encouragement, which have been invaluable in shaping my project. I am also grateful to my parents for their unwavering support. Lastly, I appreciate all my friends and classmates for their encouragement and motivation. Their support has been instrumental in helping me navigate through the “highs and lows” of this project