Thermoelectric technology is a method of renewable, alternative energy that utilizes the Seebeck effect to convert some of the thermal energy in a temperature gradient to electricity. The optimal temperature range for skutterudite thermoelectric devices is around 650°C, making them ideal for high temperature applications. At this temperature range, the skutterudite thermoelectrics have a device-level conversion efficiency of about 9%. As these devices are still in the development stage, testing that simulates real-world conditions is necessary to assess the feasibility of implementing skutterudite thermoelectric technology with current processes. A standardized procedure to test the skutterudite thermoelectric devices has been established to reduce variability in device fabrication and generator assembly. This procedure includes a measurement and tracking system to aid in establishing relationships between component properties and thermoelectric performance. In addition, a technology has been developed to electrically bypass any failed devices to preserve overall power generation.Results indicate that additional efforts are needed to address the high level of thermal stresses the devices experience during operation. Several methods to reduce thermal stresses and investigate potential stressors are proposed. In addition, the successful performance of the electrical bypass technology suggests that it is indeed a viable method of bypassing individual devices for experimental tests. Additional testing and improvements can be made as necessary to implement this technology in the envisioned 1 kW skutterudite thermoelectric generator.
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