Termoelektrisillä

Termoelektrisillä refers to phenomena and devices related to the conversion between thermal energy and electrical energy. This effect is based on the thermoelectric effect, which describes how a temperature difference across a material can generate an electric voltage, and conversely, how an electric current can create a temperature difference.

The Seebeck effect, discovered by Thomas Johann Seebeck in 1821, is the phenomenon where a voltage is produced when there is a temperature gradient across a junction of two dissimilar conductive materials. This is the principle behind thermoelectric generators. The Peltier effect, discovered by Jean Charles Athanase Peltier in 1834, is the inverse of the Seebeck effect. When an electric current flows through a junction of two dissimilar conductors, heat is absorbed or released at the junction, creating a cooling or heating effect. This is the basis for thermoelectric coolers.

Thermoelectric devices have various applications. Thermoelectric generators can be used in situations where heat is abundant but electricity is needed, such as in waste heat recovery systems, remote power sources for sensors, or even in space probes utilizing radioisotope thermoelectric generators. Thermoelectric coolers are employed in applications requiring localized cooling without moving parts, like in portable refrigerators, electronic cooling, and temperature control systems.

The efficiency of thermoelectric devices is a significant area of research. Factors like material properties, temperature difference, and device design influence their performance. Ongoing research aims to develop new materials with improved thermoelectric properties to enhance the efficiency and expand the applicability of these technologies.