Thermophotovoltaics-development status and parametric considerations for power applications

Technology advances in thermophotovoltaic (TPV) diodes and improvements in spectral control filters have enabled consideration of TPV for power applications. Low bandgap TPV diodes improve power density and spectral control at lower radiator temperatures (800/spl deg/C-1100/spl deg/C). Lower radiator temperatures enable a broader range of heat source and structural material options. Spectral control filters increase system efficiency by recuperation of photons. Finally, long-term reliability of the converter is enhanced as the energy conversion and recuperative spectral control occur "cold" at heat sink temperatures.