Waste Heat Recovery from Automotive Exhaust Using Thermoelectric Generators

Mohammad F. Kh. A. Alenezi, Ebrahim Mohammad Almufarrej

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

Vol. 13, Issue 2, October 2025 - March 2026

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Waste Heat Recovery from Automotive Exhaust Using Thermoelectric Generators by Mohammad F. Kh. A. Alenezi, Ebrahim Mohammad Almufarrej