Aluminum Combustion Thermophotovoltaic for High Energy Density, Long Duration Power Applications

Long range and long duration portable power require some kind of chemical fuel for practical use. Combustion of metals is a neglected method of producing power in a way that can emit no carbon dioxide pollutants. Here we propose a system using a thermophotoelectric (TPV) device to convert the emitted IR and visible light from the oxidation of aluminum directly into electrical power. A qualitative overview of the advantages of this scheme is presented, along with a simple techno-economic analysis of aluminum combustion. The advantages of this device warrant additional research into this area.