Thermoelectric Materials
Our engineers conduct research and development of novel thermoelectric materials. In 2001, our work resulted in the first significant breakthrough in thermoelectrics in 40 years with novel nanoscale materials called superlattices. We work with government and commercial clients and collaborate with leading manufacturers of thermoelectric devices that incorporate these materials for military and commercial markets.
Our thermoelectric material is both more efficient and faster than existing thermoelectric materials. Devices made with these materials offer improved efficiency at small temperature differentials, high cooling power density, and high-speed heat pumping, exploiting the advantages of microelectronic wafer scalability, high-performance materials, and fast response.
Related Research
- Thermoelectric Power Generation and Energy Efficiency
- Thermoelectric Energy Harvesting
- Thermoelectric Cooling Technologies
- Thermal Management
Research Citations
- Lee, M.L., & Venkatasubramanian, R. (2008). Effect of nanodot areal density and period on thermal conductivity in SiGe/Si nanodot superlattices. Applied Physics Letters, 92 (053112).
- Caylor, J.C., Coonley, K.D., Stuart, J.R., Colpitts, T., & Venkatasubramanian, R. (2005). Enhanced thermoelectric performance in PbTe-based superlattice structures from reduction of lattice thermal conductivity. Applied Physics Letters, 87 (023105).
- Venkatasubramanian, R., Siivola, E., Colpitts, T., & O'Quinn, B. (2001). Thin-film thermoelectric devices with high room-temperature figures of merit. Nature, 413 (6856):597-602.
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