Waste Heat Recovery from Automotive Exhaust Using Thermoelectric Generators

Abstract

Abstract: The increasing demand for fuel efficiency and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions have driven significant interest in waste heat recovery technologies. In internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, nearly 30–40% of fuel energy is lost as exhaust heat. This paper investigates the application of thermoelectric generators (TEGs) for recovering part of this waste heat and converting it into useful electrical energy. Using the Seebeck effect, TEG modules were modeled and integrated into an exhaust system simulation to estimate power output and overall energy recovery efficiency. Results indicate that TEGs can recover approximately 3–5% of exhaust energy under typical driving conditions, improving overall vehicle fuel efficiency by up to 2%. Design optimization, such as module material selection and heat exchanger geometry, significantly influences system performance. Keywords: waste heat recovery technologies. internal combustion engine (ICE), electrical energy, influences system performance. Title: Waste Heat Recovery from Automotive Exhaust Using Thermoelectric Generators Author: Mohammad F. Kh. A. Alenezi, Ebrahim Mohammad Almufarrej International Journal of Mechanical and Industrial Technology ISSN 2348-7593 (Online) Vol. 13, Issue 2, October 2025 - March 2026 Page No: 17-21 Research Publish Journals Website: www.researchpublish.com Published Date: 27-October-2025 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17455206 Paper download Link (Source) https://www.researchpublish.com/papers/waste-heat-recovery-from-automotive-exhaust-using-thermoelectric-generators