Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Solving a mystery of thermoelectrics

Researchers have finally found a theoretical explanation for the differences in thermal conductivity between similar materials, which could lead to the discovery of new thermoelectric materials. The findings are reported in the journal Nature Communications and were partly supported by the U.S. Department of Energy.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 29, 2014

Polymers can be semimetals

Researchers from Linköping University and five universities worldwide have proven that polymers can exhibit semiconductor-like properties. The discovery paves the way for a new field of research in organic electronics.

SourceLinköping University·JournalNature Materials·DateDec 9, 2013

A thermoelectric materials emulator

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a novel approach to study thermoelectric materials by simulating the behavior of complex systems using ultra-cold atoms. The 'thermoelectric material emulator' allows for precise comparison between theory and experiments, shedding light on fundamental processes underlying thermoelectricity.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience·DateOct 24, 2013

Creating electricity with caged atoms

A team of researchers at the Vienna University of Technology has created a new class of thermoelectric materials with exceptional properties. The material's unique crystal structure and trapped magnetic atoms create a high voltage when hot and cold objects are connected, making it more efficient than previous materials.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Materials·DateSep 22, 2013

World record holder

Northwestern University scientists have developed a thermoelectric material that can convert 15-20% of waste heat to useful electricity. The material exhibits a ZT of 2.2, the highest reported to date, and has the potential to recover high-temperature waste heat and turn it into usable energy.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature·DateSep 19, 2012

Nanocrystal-coated fibers might reduce wasted energy

Researchers have developed nanocrystal-coated glass fibers that can generate electricity when exposed to heat, potentially recovering 10% of the energy wasted in US industries. The technology also enables solid-state cooling without compressors or refrigerants, making it suitable for use in garments and industrial applications.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNano Letters·DateApr 17, 2012

MIT: New system for flat-panel solar power combines with hot water systems for greater performance

Researchers at MIT have developed a new system for harnessing the sun's heat to generate electricity, producing power with an efficiency roughly eight times higher than previous devices. The system uses flat, stationary panels and eliminates the need for tracking systems, making it potentially less expensive to produce.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Materials·DateMay 3, 2011

Promising new material that could improve gas mileage

A Northwestern University-led research team has identified a new material that can transform thermoelectric technology into one that converts waste heat into electricity, potentially improving gas mileage by 5-10 percent. The discovery is promising and could lead to widespread use in the automotive industry and other applications.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateOct 9, 2008

Material may help autos turn heat into electricity

Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a new thermoelectric material that can convert waste heat from engine exhaust into electricity, with twice the efficiency of current market materials. The material is effective between 450-950 degrees Fahrenheit and has potential applications in power generators and heat pumps.

SourceOhio State University·JournalScience·DateJul 24, 2008

Waste not, want not

A new class of semiconductors has been developed that can efficiently convert waste heat into electricity, with potential applications in shipboard steam plants and land vehicles. The material, called LAST, uses nanostructures to impede heat flow and introduce internal boundaries, increasing its efficiency.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·JournalScience·DateMay 18, 2004

ThermoChemistry on a chip

Scientists at RTI in North Carolina have developed a high-efficiency thermocouple device that can make something hotter or colder over 20,000 times faster than current devices. This innovation has the potential to convert heat into electrical energy more efficiently and could lead to affordable plug-in modules for widespread use.

Chill out

Researchers at Michigan State University have developed a new thermoelectric material that can cool computer chips more efficiently than existing materials. This innovation has the potential to increase computer speed and extend processor lifetimes, making it an attractive solution for the Navy's environmentally friendly cooling needs.

New thermoelectric material

A new thermoelectric material has been discovered with the potential to significantly improve cooling efficiency in electronic systems. The material can drop temperatures by as low as 100 degrees when stimulated with an electrical current.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·JournalScience·DateFeb 13, 2000