In-situ atmospheric thermoelectric conversion on Mars

1. Martian gas driven thermoelectric conversion

The Martian atmosphere (95.7% CO₂, 2.7% N₂, and 1.6% Ar) as a working medium represents an unprecedented concept for dynamic thermoelectric conversion. The abundant in-situ atmospheric resources enhance the tolerance of moving components to gas leakage in extreme operating environments. The characteristics of Martian gases, such as their large molecular weight and high thermal stability, contribute to ensuring safety and increasing power density. Martian gases are better suited to operate in the subcritical state, similar to the behavior of rare gases. Beyond electricity generation, Martian gas-driven thermoelectric conversion holds expanded application potential, including coupling with Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cells (SOEC) for in-situ oxygen production and heating.

2. Environmental suitability and technology potential

Martian atmosphere shows promising thermoelectric conversion properties, matching the temperature range for microreactor secondary loops. In-situ conversion can maintain 90% of designed power during day-night temperature fluctuations. Even with full dust coverage, the system retains 39% to 46% of its initial power. Efficiency could improve by 7.4% to 20.0%, and power density by 1.0% to 14.2%, compared to rare gases. Notably, conversion efficiency can exceed 22% at hot-end temperatures below 973 K. When power demands exceed 100 kW, such as for Mars base outposts, in-situ conversion offers significant weight reduction, with over twice the efficiency of traditional thermoelectric materials, reducing the scale of microreactors and radiators.

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