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Affiliated with the International Science and Engineering fair through the CREST-Jane Goodall Science Symposium and the Northwest Science Expo
About the Project
Goal
Simulate a temperature differential across several peltier tiles to generate an electric current. This is supposed to simulate the heat exerted by hydrogen-electric airplane engines and the surrounding cold air at cruising altitudes.
Setup
Four peltier tiles wired in series are attached via thermal glue to the bottom of a metal pan. Ice-cooled water was held in the pan while a heat source (hair dryer or candles) heated the hot side of the tiles. Output was represented via an LED and a multimeter.
Observations
The setup worked and had the potential to generate some current. Temperature differences reached approximately 30°, which generated some voltage and power, depending on the use of a joule thief circuit. The use of the joule thief circuit resulted in a lower potential voltage, but a higher power wattage. The opposite occurred when the joule thief circuit was removed.
Why hydrogen-electric airplanes?
As an aviation enthusiast and a future engineer, I look forward to the technological advancements in aviation. Hydrogen-electric airplanes are a future sustainable fuel option to reduce toxic emissions compared to Jet A fuel. These engines also do not heat up as hot as traditional internal combustion engines. These peltier tiles would have a longer lifespan in less heat, rather than "burning up" beside a traditional engine. Then, the cold air temperature at high altitudes would create the temperature difference to generate electricity. This excess power would be directed to low-voltage and non-vital components on board an aircraft.
Close-up photo of the circuit
Project presentation at the district fair
Awards
2nd place at the CREST-Jane Goodall Science Symposium (district science fair) in the Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Category
Outstanding Science or Engineering Fair Project presented by the United States Air Force
Northwest Science Expo participant (Oregon state science fair)
Project Poster
Google Sites
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