Title: Thermoelectric generator devices and methods

Abstract: Thermoelectric generator devices and methods using, for example, alkali metal as a working fluid are disclosed. In operation, elemental alkali metal is ionized on the inside of an electrolyte tube to alkali metal cations, reconverted outside the tube to elemental alkali metal at a porous electrode, vaporized into a furnace zone in vapor communication with the porous electrode, discharged hydrodynamically from the furnace zone to a cooling zone, and collected as a liquid for return to the inside of the electrolyte tube. Essentially isothermal series electrical connection within the devices provides a means for reduction of heat conduction losses.

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Inventors: Bettman, Max (Southfield, MI, US)

Application Number: 813711
Filing Date: 1977-07-07
Publication_date: 1978-07-04
Assignee: Ford Motor Company (Dearborn, MI)
Primary Class(es): 429/17 429/11, 429/20
Other Classes:
US Patent Ref:

3458356	Jul, 1969	Kummer	429/11.
3511715	May, 1970	Angus	429/17.

Other Refs:
Primary Examiner: Mack, John H.
Assistant Examiner: Feeley, H. A.
Attorney: Ross, Jr.; Edmund C., Zerschling; Keith L.