Project 1.11: Energy Harvesting and Advanced Technologies for Enhanced Life

Project Abstract:

A solar energy harvesting system was examined to heat water using a proto-type asphalt pavement in the lab, but it was not efficient.  Thus, a second approach was continued to create an efficient asphalt pavement solar collector using thermoelectric generators (TEGs). Thorough testing was needed to evaluate the implementation of the energy harvesting device into the roadway. The temperature difference between opposing TEG surfaces will generate the required voltage to operate the roadway sensors.  Now that the solar harvester has been installed into the shoulder of a roadway, the ability of heat transfer to generate electrical energy needs to be tested in this real-world application. To bring heat to the TEGs from the asphalt surface layer, the harvester included an insulated copper plate that reached 25mm (1 in.) below the top layer. This allows temperature difference readings as well as maximum power output voltage. This copper plate will be heated from the sun heating the asphalt surface layer and transfer the energy into the harvester system.  Calculations show that this heat transfer is reasonable if heat flow along the plate into deeper asphalt layers can be neglected.

Sponsors:
University Transportation Centers Program, Department of Transportation
University of Rhode Island

Implementation of Research Outcomes:
This project is in its initial research phase. Implementation of Research outcomes will be reported upon completion of initial research.

Impacts and Benefits of Implementation:
This project is in its initial research phase. Implementation of Research outcomes will be reported upon completion of initial research.

Related Links:
Rhode Island Transportation Research Center

Downloadable Documents