Abstract
The efficient utilization of solar energy is important issue to shift to a sustainable society. However, the solar radiation in infrared band is not converted into electric energy efficiently, and the electric power generation during nighttime is difficult. In this study, the solar energy harvesting by utilizing thermoelectric generator with phase change material (PCM) has been investigated. Experiments were performed using octadecane as PCM. As the results, electric power generation by solar radiation during daytime, and electric generation during nighttime by solar heat energy stored in PCM were achieved. The harvested energy and melting-solidification behavior of PCM were discussed in relation to ambient temperature for typical three weather seasons.
