Eur. Phys. J. Plus (2016) 131: 434
https://doi.org/10.1140/epjp/i2016-16434-6

Regular Article

Causality in thermoelectric systems: Insights from block diagrams

Lycée Jacques Prévert, F-27500, Pont-Audemer, France

^* e-mail: yann.apertet@gmail.com

Received: 27 October 2016
Accepted: 23 November 2016
Published online: 19 December 2016

Abstract

While Carnot's model engines demonstrate ideal performances regarding conversion efficiency, they cannot be actually used as energy converters since they are non-causal systems. Such an unphysical behavior indeed restrains the working conditions to a single point where, in the case of a refrigerator (generator), the cooling power (output power) vanishes. Focusing on the example of a thermoelectric refrigerator, we study the impact of different dissipation sources on the causality of such systems. Basing our analysis on the block diagram description of this system, we discuss particularly the fact that heat conduction cannot ensure causality.