A JOINT project in the US is looking at ways of using shape memory alloys (SMA) to develop devices that scavenge waste heat.
The research into lightweight thermal energy recovery system (Lighter) is being led by General Motors and includes the HRL science and engineering research laboratories in California.
Shape memory alloys are solid-state actuator materials that convert thermal energy into mechanical energy.
Dr Geoffrey McKnight, manager of HRL’s active materials and adaptive structures technologies lab, said the concept was not new.
“While the concept has been investigated since the 1970s, new developments in the maturity of SMA materials could theoretically enable devices that output more power per unit weight and last much longer than previous generations,” he said.
“The technology is very general and could be used to increase the efficiency of a variety of systems and processes.”
HRL’s involvement will centre on heat-scavenging device design concepts and testing.
The $2.7 million research project is expected to last two years.
© PE Publishing, 9 December 2009
