In a significant stride towards enhancing energy efficiency, researchers have developed a novel thermoelectric module that could revolutionize power generation and cooling technologies. The study, led by Masayuki Murata from the Research Institute for Energy Conservation at the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST) in Tsukuba, Japan, evaluates the performance of a thermopile module composed of SmCo5/Bi0.2Sb1.8Te3 artificially tilted multilayers. The findings, published in the journal ‘Science and Technology of Advanced Materials’ (translated as ‘Materials Science and Technology’), offer promising insights for the energy sector.
Thermoelectric devices, which convert heat into electricity and vice versa, have long been recognized for their potential in energy harvesting and cooling applications. However, their widespread adoption has been hindered by limitations in performance and efficiency. Murata’s research addresses these challenges by systematically investigating the transverse thermoelectric generation and cooling performances of a newly developed module.
The study reveals that when a substantial temperature difference of 405°C is applied to the SmCo5/Bi0.2Sb1.8Te3-based module, the open-circuit voltage reaches an impressive 0.51 volts, with an output power of 0.80 watts. Notably, the maximum power density achieved is 0.16 watts per square centimeter, even when normalized by the device area, including non-contributing components such as epoxy resin, electrodes, and insulating layers. “This performance is a significant step forward,” Murata explains, “as it demonstrates the potential of these materials to generate power efficiently under high-temperature conditions.”
In cooling operations, the module exhibits a maximum temperature difference of 9.0°C and a heat flow at the cold side of 1.6 watts. While these values are lower than the ideal thermoelectric performance expected from the material parameters due to imperfections associated with modularization, the research clarifies the potential of SmCo5/Bi0.2Sb1.8Te3 artificially tilted multilayers as both thermoelectric generators and cooling devices.
The implications of this research for the energy sector are profound. Efficient thermoelectric modules could enable the conversion of waste heat from industrial processes into usable electricity, thereby reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions. Additionally, advanced cooling technologies could enhance the performance and reliability of electronic devices, contributing to the development of more sustainable and energy-efficient systems.
As Murata notes, “The systematic investigations reported here pave the way for further optimization and commercialization of these technologies.” The study not only highlights the potential of the SmCo5/Bi0.2Sb1.8Te3 artificially tilted multilayers but also sets the stage for future advancements in thermoelectric generation and cooling. With continued research and development, these innovations could play a crucial role in shaping the future of energy efficiency and sustainability.