Enhancing Photovoltaic-Thermoelectric Generator Systems Using Carbon-Based Thermal Interface Materials: A Comprehensive Review

Integrating thermoelectric generators (TEG) under photovoltaic (PV) panels in PV-TEG systems holds great potential for maximizing energy utilization by collecting waste heat from PV panels while increasing efficiency. However, the presence of air gaps at contact locations due to metal surface roughness presents a substantial issue, resulting in increased thermal contact resistance (RC) and decreased system efficiency. To overcome this barrier, thermal interface materials (TIM) are used to fill air gaps, effectively decreasing RC, boosting heat transmission, homogenizing surface temperatures, and eventually increasing system efficiency. Carbon-based TIMs, notably pyrolytic graphite sheet (PGS), have emerged as very efficient replacements for conventional heat dissipation materials in electronic applications. Using PGS as a TIM can improve the overall performance of PV-TEG systems. This study provides useful insights into the elements that influence solar cell and TEG efficiency while offering a comprehensive analysis of the potential of carbon-based TIMs in enhancing PV-TEG system performance.