thermaltoelectric

Thermoelectric refers to the direct conversion of temperature differences into electric voltage and vice versa. This phenomenon is based on the thermoelectric effect, which encompasses three distinct effects: the Seebeck effect, the Peltier effect, and the Thomson effect. The Seebeck effect describes the creation of an electromotive force (voltage) across a conductor when there is a temperature gradient along it. This is the principle behind thermoelectric generators, which can produce electricity from waste heat or solar energy. Conversely, the Peltier effect involves heat being absorbed or released at the junction of two different conductors when an electric current flows through them. This effect is utilized in thermoelectric coolers, which can provide localized cooling without the need for moving parts like compressors. The Thomson effect is related to the absorption or release of heat in a single conductor when an electric current flows through it and there is a temperature gradient. Thermoelectric materials are crucial for these applications, and research focuses on developing materials with high thermoelectric efficiency, typically quantified by a figure of merit known as ZT. High ZT values indicate a greater ability to convert heat into electricity or vice versa.