radiativethermoelectric

Radiativethermoelectric is a term used to describe a class of energy conversion approaches that combine radiative heat transfer with thermoelectric generation to convert thermal radiation directly into electricity. In these concepts, a temperature gradient across a thermoelectric material is established by radiative heating from a hot source on one side and cooling on the other.

Principle: The basic mechanism relies on the Seebeck effect in a thermoelectric stack, while spectral control of radiative exchange enhances the usable heat flux. By engineering the optical properties of emitters, absorbers, and insulators, radiativethermoelectric devices aim to maximize temperature difference and minimize parasitic heat losses, potentially leveraging near-field radiative transfer to boost energy transfer in sub-wavelength gaps.

Device concepts and materials: The core thermoelectric materials (such as Bi2Te3, PbTe, and related compounds) remain central, with research targeting higher zT values and better thermal management. Architectures often involve selective radiators, photonic structures, or metamaterials to tailor emission spectra and improve cooling on the cold side, in combination with optimized thermoelectric junctions.

Applications and challenges: Potential uses include waste-heat recovery from industrial radiative sources, solar-thermal electricity generation, and compact power sources for space or remote environments. Practically, achieving high efficiency remains difficult due to thermal losses, interface compatibility, and material stability. Ongoing work focuses on improving spectral engineering, thermal design, and scalable fabrication.

See also: Thermoelectric effect; Seebeck effect; Thermoelectric generator; Radiative heat transfer; Near-field radiative heat transfer.