Theoretical Simulation of Thermoelectric Generator consisting of n-Mg2Si and p-MnSi1.75 by Finite Element Method

We proposed the finite element (FEM) simulation model as an essential tool for understanding thermoelectric (TE) generator behavior. This model can predict the output power with various temperature difference, number and size of parameter conditions. It was found that the relationship between temperature difference and output power changed with volume of materials, number of cells and improved P-N connection design. The p-MnSi1.75 and n-Mg2Si thermoelectric module Model 2 obtained the maximum output power about 117 mW at a temperature difference of 200 K. This simulation model was applied to the optimization work on early designing stages of other material types on thermoelectric generators and coolers.