Johnson thermoelectric energy converter

A Johnson thermoelectric energy converter or JTEC is a type of solid-state heat engine that uses the electrochemical oxidation and reduction of hydrogen in a two-cell, thermal cycle that approximates the Ericsson cycle.[1] It is under investigation as a viable alternative to conventional thermoelectric conversion. Lonnie Johnson invented it and claims the converter exhibits an energy conversion efficiency of as much as 60%,[2] however, this claim is at a theoretical level based on comparison with a Carnot cycle and assumes a temperature gradient of 600 °C.[3] It was originally proposed for funding to the Office of Naval Research but was refused. Johnson obtained later funding by framing the engine as a hydrogen fuel cell. Johnson had been collaborating with PARC on development of the engine.[4]

  1. ^ "The Johnson Thermoelectric Energy Conversion System (JTEC)" (article). Bright Hub. 2010-09-26. Retrieved 2010-09-26.
  2. ^ Johnson, Lonnie G. (25-28 February 2019). "Johnson Thermo-Electrochemical Converter (JTEC) as a Heat to Electric Generator for Nuclear Power Systems," Nuclear and Emerging Technologies for Space, American Nuclear Society Topical Meeting, Richland, WA. Retrieved 2021-10-22.
  3. ^ Ward, Logan (1 January 2008). "Super Soaker Inventor Aims to Cut Solar Costs in Half" (article). Popular Mechanics. Retrieved 2010-09-18.
  4. ^ Ward, Logan (1 October 2010). "Shooting for the Sun" (article). The Atlantic. Retrieved 1 October 2010.