Numerical investigation of hybrid nanofluid flow in a finned heat sink integrated with a concentrated solar system and thermoelectric generator

Thermoelectric generators (TEGs) harness temperature gradients to produce electrical power, providing a sustainable and eco-friendly energy solution. This research conducts a 3D numerical analysis to investigate the effects of three fin configurations—plate fins, plate fins with pin fins, and separated plate fins with pin fins—and three cooling fluids: air, water, and a nanofluid based on water mixed with multi-walled carbon nanotubes and silicon carbide (MWCNT/SiC). This article offers a new technique by combining new fin configurations and a nanofluid cooling to enhance thermoelectric generator (TEG) performance. The numerical simulations have been performed using the finite element method, and the results revealed that air as a cooling fluid significantly decreases the TEG's power output compared to water or MWCNT/SiC nanofluid. Specifically, the open-circuit voltage (VOC) with air cooling is approximately 99 % lower than that achieved with water or nanofluid. Additionally, incorporating nanofluid increases power generation by an average of 2.6 %. Among the fin configurations, plate fins with pin fins achieve the highest electrical potential, outperforming separated plate fins with pin fins and standard plate fins by 4 % and 6.9 %, respectively. These results underscore the serious role of efficient thermal management in optimizing TEG power. The study highlights the combined impact of fin design and cooling fluid selection in enhancing TEG efficiency, contributing appreciated insights for advancing solar energy applications.