Stable Organic Thermoelectric Devices and Thermocells for Self-powered Sensor Applications

Stable Organic Thermoelectric Devices and Thermocells for Self-powered Sensor Applications

von Masakazu Mukaida

This book offers a comprehensive examination of organic thermoelectric conversion and thermocell technologies—two pioneering methods for converting low-temperature waste heat into viable electrical energy. It elucidates the distinct advantages of organic materials in these applications, such as mechanical flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and compatibility with low-temperature environments, highlighting their suitability for system integration. The text also demonstrates that the performance of organic thermoelectrics and thermocells has been significantly enhanced through recent advancements, including novel material designs, optimized device architectures, and improved interfacial engineering. This volume provides an extensive overview of the principles, design strategies, and practical implementations of organic thermoelectric conversion and thermocells specifically tailored for Internet of Things (IoT) applications. By presenting advanced organic thermoelectric and thermocell technologies, the text aims to substantially reduce energy waste and minimize carbon dioxide emissions. Through a synthesis of theoretical insights and practical design guidelines, it prepares researchers, engineers, and industry professionals with a solid foundation for developing the next generation of self-powered IoT systems.

This book offers a comprehensive examination of organic thermoelectric conversion and thermocell technologies—two pioneering methods for converting low-temperature waste heat into viable electrical energy. It elucidates the distinct advantages of organic materials in these applications, such as mechanical flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and compatibility with low-temperature environments, highlighting their suitability for system integration. The text also demonstrates that the performance of organic thermoelectrics and thermocells has been significantly enhanced through recent advancements, including novel material designs, optimized device architectures, and improved interfacial engineering. This volume provides an extensive overview of the principles, design strategies, and practical implementations of organic thermoelectric conversion and thermocells specifically tailored for Internet of Things (IoT) applications. By presenting advanced organic thermoelectric and thermocell technologies, the text aims to substantially reduce energy waste and minimize carbon dioxide emissions. Through a synthesis of theoretical insights and practical design guidelines, it prepares researchers, engineers, and industry professionals with a solid foundation for developing the next generation of self-powered IoT systems.

Highlights

• Explains how to convert heat into electricity using organic materials and thermocells Introduces the design and optimization of organic thermoelectric modules and thermocells Provides a guide on how to utilize thermoelectric modules and thermocells to power Internet of Things (IoT) devices

Über den Autor

Masakazu Mukaida earned his Ph.D. from Tohoku University in 1990. He is currently an invited senior researcher at the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST). In addition, he is a lecturer at Kokushikan University and an officer of the Ceramic Society of Japan, from which he has received a Distinguished Service Award. During his academic career, his research focused on metal refining technologies, chemical vapor deposition processes for electrically conductive ceramics, and material structure evaluation methods. His current research interests include organic thermoelectrics, thermoelectric ceramics, metal membranes for hydrogen separation, and measurement techniques. 

Qingshuo Wei is a chief senior researcher at the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Japan, and an associate professor in the Materials Innovation Program at the University of Tsukuba. He earned his B.S. in 2004 from Peking University, followed by an M.S. in 2006 and a Ph.D. in 2009 from the University of Tokyo. After completing postdoctoral training at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, he joined AIST as a researcher. From 2019 to 2022, he concurrently hold the JST PRESTO project on Scientific Innovation for Energy Harvesting Technology. His research focuses on organic semiconductors, device engineering, and the synthesis of organic conductors.