A research team led by Ge Fu, Shangchao Lin, Yang Liu, Yiling Duan, Yixuan Liu, and Qilin Zhang from Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai Institute of Space Power Sources , and The University of Tokyo has developed a highly efficient segmented thermoelectric (TE) module capable of converting waste heat directly into electricity with remarkable effectiveness. This advancement, detailed in a new study published in ENGINEERING Energy , successfully achieves an outstanding peak energy conversion efficiency of 12.7%.
Solid-state thermoelectric power generation is gaining worldwide attention for its vast potential in recovering industrial waste heat and powering deep-space devices. However, traditional TE modules are often limited because a single material cannot maintain optimal performance across large temperature gradients. To overcome this challenge, a collaborative research team engineered a segmented TE module that strategically combines different high-performance materials.
Key Research Outcomes and Highlights:
Overall, the maximum power density and energy conversion efficiency of this optimized segmented module increased by 35% and 21%, respectively, compared to an unsegmented baseline module . These findings decisively demonstrate the effectiveness of the optimized broad-temperature leg-segmentation strategy for next-generation, high-performance solid-state energy harvesting technologies.
Journal : ENGINEERING Energy
Read the full article for free: https://rdcu.be/fsX3c
Cite this article : Fu, G., Lin, S., Liu, Y. et al. Achieving 12.7% energy conversion efficiency in segmented GeTe/BST-SKD thermoelectric modules via broad-temperature and structural optimizations. ENG. Energy 20, 10811 (2026). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11708-026-1081-1
ENGINEERING Energy
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Achieving 12.7% energy conversion efficiency in segmented GeTe/BST-SKD thermoelectric modules via broad-temperature and structural optimizations
30-Jun-2026