We need higher temperature ones that can go right on/after the cat (which can hit 800C+ under heavy load), and an efficiency bump wouldn't hurt, as that would improve the mass efficiency as well. Once they get that up though, the car will generate much more electricity than it actually needs from the exhaust, so we need mild hybrid drivetrains to really use waste heat recovery to the fullest.
However, I wonder how much power an ignition system takes...for say, a racecar, getting an extra few hundred watts at a weight penalty of a few pounds (running off the main coolant system with perhaps a secondary radiator) is pretty good.
And for people who want to DIY, these cells are a bit expensive at 80 dollars for a 3x3 :/
EDIT: oh there are some higher efficiency units that are 56mm x 56mm, 19W with 270C delta...nevermind even more expensive.
Last edited by serialk11r; 02-12-2012 at 06:18 AM..
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