NaBH4 generator integrated with energy conversion device based on hydrogen combustion

Abstract A thermoelectric energy conversion device operating on the heat generated by a hydrogen diffusion microflame has been developed. For the first time, a NaBH 4 hydrogen generator has been employed as a source of fuel for such type of power generator. A 1%Ru–3%Co/Sibunit catalyst ensures hydrogen generation at a rate of 3 cm 3  s −1 during 3 h. Power and efficiency characteristics of the integrated system consisting of a hydrogen generator and an energy converter based on combustion technologies have been studied experimentally. The total efficiency and the generated power of the system were measured to achieve values of up to 1.23% and 0.25 W, respectively. Ways to further improve the system's power output and efficiency characteristics have been discussed.