Nanotechnology for Energy - Thermoelectricity

Thermoelectricity is the conversion of heat to electricity and vice versa. It relies on connecting two different electrically conducting materials, which conduct heat at different rates, at two junctions (thermocouples) in a closed loop. Applying heat at one thermocouple while keeping the other cool generates an electric current within the loop. Combining many such loops produces a thermopile which can be used to power devices e.g. radios and clocks. In contrast, if electricity is passed through the loop then the thermocouples will heat or cool (which can be used for heaters or fridges). Both metals and semiconductors can be used to generate this effect.

Thermoelectric generators have advantages over those using conventional materials as they have a smaller size, and no mechanical parts that can fail or deteriorate over time.

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