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