Organic thermoelectric device can harvest energy at room temperature
Researchers at Kyushu University developed an organic thermoelectric device that harvests energy at room temperature without a temperature gradient, achieving 384 mV voltage and 94 nW/cm² output, enhancing energy efficiency.
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Researchers at Kyushu University have developed a new organic thermoelectric device capable of harvesting energy from ambient temperature without requiring a temperature gradient. This advancement addresses existing limitations in thermoelectric technology, which typically relies on a temperature difference to generate electricity. The study, led by Professor Chihaya Adachi from the Center for Organic Photonics and Electronics Research (OPERA), highlights the potential of organic materials in energy conversion. The team identified two effective compounds, copper phthalocyanine (CuPc) and copper hexadecafluoro phthalocyanine (F16CuPc), which facilitate electron transfer. By optimizing the device's structure with additional materials like fullerenes and BCP, they achieved an open-circuit voltage of 384 mV and a maximum output of 94 nW/cm² at room temperature. This innovation could enhance the efficiency and application of thermoelectric devices, particularly in harvesting waste heat. The findings were published in the journal Nature Communications, and the researchers aim to further improve the device's performance and scalability.
- A new organic thermoelectric device can harvest energy at room temperature without a temperature gradient.
- The device utilizes organic materials, specifically CuPc and F16CuPc, to enhance electron transfer.
- Achieved an open-circuit voltage of 384 mV and a maximum output of 94 nW/cm².
- This technology could improve the efficiency of thermoelectric devices in energy harvesting applications.
- The research was published in Nature Communications, indicating significant advancements in thermoelectric technology.
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8 commentsTurning heat directly into electricity is one of those Trek-level technologies. Many would debate whether it is even theoretically possible, while others claim practical successes.
They already have miniature kinetic energy generators, now they can pair with heat difference generators (air vs animal body temp)
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