High-voltage thermocell modules for direct device operation: eliminating the need for DC-DC converters

• Published in: Materials research express Vol. 11; no. 10; pp. 101501 - 101507
• Main Authors: Jiang, Lixian, Ebihara, Teruo, Horike, Shohei, Wei, Qingshuo
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Bristol IOP Publishing 01.10.2024
• Subjects: Energy harvesting; Integrated circuits; sensors; thermocells; voltage; Voltage converters (DC to DC)
• ISSN: 2053-1591; 2053-1591
• DOI: 10.1088/2053-1591/ad8a20

Abstract This study explores the potential of thermocells as an efficient energy-harvesting solution that can power practical devices without the need for a DC-DC converter. We constructed thermocell devices comprising 35 legs using a modified soldering technique and electrode treatment to improve reliability. The devices achieved a peak voltage of 3.5 V at a hot-side temperature of 60 °C under natural cooling conditions. These thermocells were integrated with a voltage detector integrated circuit (IC) and beacon, initiating beacon operation within 100 s and transmitting signals over 600 times within a 15 min period. Our findings demonstrate the feasibility of thermocells as an alternative energy source, offering a cost-effective and streamlined approach for energy-harvesting applications without the complexity and expense of DC-DC converters.