Conventional thermoelectric generators primarily rely on narrow-gap semiconducting materials, which often exhibit low Seebeck coefficients at room temperature. To overcome these challenges, researchers are investigating alternative types of materials, such as ionic thermoelectric (i-TE) materials and organic flexible TE materials, which can generate voltage differences using anions or cations as charge carriers.
Improving the Thermoelectric Figure of Merit (ZT)
High-performance thermoelectric materials are essential for converting waste heat into useful electricity, thereby contributing significantly to energy savings and renewable energy goals. Researchers continue to explore ways to improve the thermoelectric figure of merit (ZT)—which measures the efficiency of thermoelectric materials—by focusing on enhancing the Seebeck coefficient, electrical conductivity, and temperature, while minimizing thermal conductivity.