Hardware suggestions to provide a temp increase?

Forum 2005-2010 (read only) Hardware Interfacing
1

I am working on a project where I need to increase the temperature of some thermochromic dye, just enough to cause a colour change, so not more than 10 degrees.

I have looked at using the hot side of a peltier element, but they are pretty power hungry. Does anyone know of an effective alternative, or a simple way of regulating a peltier element?

Thanks

2

resistors, nichrome wire, conductive thread. apply power to both ends and they will all heat up, nichrome wire may be overkill though

3

I have also considered ripping the teflon coated wire out of some electric blankets. This may be the best option, as the element has to be flexible.

I have assumed that nichrome wire wouldn't be particularly flexible, but I could be wrong about this?

4

How about sticking a 12 volt light bulb into the fluid. Not only will you get a heating effect, but also a visual feedback of how much energy you're puting in.
Don't let the terminals contact the fluid since you will get an electrolysis reaction that might have an effect upon your experiment.
There again many an accidental discovery has been found by unintentional events
jack