This technology is made possible by the development of a unique fiber matrix burner that provides narrow-band selective radiation for the generation of photovoltaic power in addition to heat. The selective emission results in an extremely high conversion efficiency and provides significantly more electric power than a comparable photovoltaic system that utilizes typical blackbody1 radiation, and for this reason, this unique burner is ideally suited for use in appliances such as water heaters, furnaces, and boilers. The typical blackbody radiator emits radiation of many wavelengths; most of this energy is wasted because the absorber (a typical photovoltaic solar cell) is most effective at a narrow wavelength just above the bandgap. In the mixed oxide fiber matrix burner, the materials that form the matrix primarily radiate a narrow band of radiation with the same wavelength as the absorber. Thus, selective emission is tuned to the selective absorbability to provide the high conversion efficiency that results in high power output. This power is available to operate blowers, controls, and other electrical components within the appliance. In addition, this burner 1) requires a minimum of excess air (increased efficiency), 2) reduces emission of oxides of nitrogen (NOx), and 3) is well suited for condensing combustion (increased efficiency) without the need for outside electric power. A design for a residential water heater, with a possible 94% efficiency, without the need for outside electric power is presented.
