CHEMICAL THERMOCELL Russian patent published in 1999 - IPC

FIELD: thermal-to-electric energy conversion. SUBSTANCE: cell has inert electrodes with hafnium and graphite surface dispersed in 35% aqueous solution of hydrobromic acid heated from external source. Voltage is built up due to contact potential difference of 1.2 V between hafnium and graphite electrodes sufficient for decomposing 35% aqueous solution of hydrobromic acid into bromide and hydrogen which are ionized again in solution due to heat and recover ion concentration. Decomposition of charged ions is accompanied by their discharge on electrode surfaces inducing electric current in external circuit. EFFECT: improved efficiency and service life, reduced cost of thermocell.