NANO-CATALYTIC SPONTANEOUS IGNITION AND METHOD

摘要

A thermoelectric generator includes a heat source comprising a plurality of nanocatalyst particles, an inlet for fuel and oxygen for contacting the fuel and oxygen with the nanocatalyst particles, and a heat sink. A thermoelectric generating unit having n- and p-­type semiconductors is provided between and in thermal contact with the heat source and the heat sink, and an electrical connection is provided between the n-and p-type semiconductors. A method for spontaneously combusting a fuel is also disclosed.