1 Answer
Thermoelectric energy harvesting is a process where heat energy is converted into electrical energy using thermoelectric materials. These materials generate electricity when there is a temperature difference across them.
Here's how it works:
1. **Temperature Difference**: The thermoelectric material has two sides—one side is exposed to heat, and the other is kept cooler. This creates a temperature difference.
2. **Seebeck Effect**: When there's a temperature difference, free electrons in the material move from the hot side (where they have more energy) to the cooler side, generating an electric current.
3. **Power Generation**: This flow of electrons can be captured and used to power small devices like sensors, wearable electronics, or even larger systems in some cases.
Thermoelectric energy harvesting is useful in situations where waste heat (like from industrial processes or car engines) can be captured and turned into usable power, helping to improve energy efficiency and reduce energy waste.
Here's how it works:
1. **Temperature Difference**: The thermoelectric material has two sides—one side is exposed to heat, and the other is kept cooler. This creates a temperature difference.
2. **Seebeck Effect**: When there's a temperature difference, free electrons in the material move from the hot side (where they have more energy) to the cooler side, generating an electric current.
3. **Power Generation**: This flow of electrons can be captured and used to power small devices like sensors, wearable electronics, or even larger systems in some cases.
Thermoelectric energy harvesting is useful in situations where waste heat (like from industrial processes or car engines) can be captured and turned into usable power, helping to improve energy efficiency and reduce energy waste.