Selective emitter materials and designs for high-temperature thermophotovoltaic applications

In this manuscript, we review the role of selective emitters and filter materials in designs for thermophotovoltaics. After a brief review of the basics of thermophotovoltaics, we present a detailed discussion of options for highly-selective thermal emitters, highly-selective filters, and the interactions between them. We present a comprehensive analysis of 26 state-of-the-art selective emitters and discuss the particular advantages of each type of design strategy. We then discuss the fundamentals of materials stability, and how they can inform multilayer designs. We summarize the major challenges of current thermophotovoltaics with comparison to other competing energy conversion technologies. We then conclude with a summary and future perspectives on the prospects for highly-selective thermal emitters and filters.

Automated summary

In this manuscript, the role of selective emitters and filter materials in thermophotovoltaic designs is reviewed. The options for highly-selective thermal emitters and filters, as well as their interactions, are discussed in detail. Materials stability and its application in multilayer designs are also examined. The challenges and prospects of thermophotovoltaics are summarized and compared to other energy conversion technologies.