Project Description
The project aims to develop semiconductor devices that convert heat flow into electricity without moving parts or emitting pollutants, by creating a “nanophononic” thermoelectric device. This concept relies on having tiny structures added to a thin solid membrane’s top and bottom slow the flow of heat down the membrane by atomic vibrations (phonons).
The device will convert waste heat to electricity at twice the efficiency of today’s best thermoelectric devices. Since 60% of energy generated globally is wasted as heat, project success should significantly lower fuel consumption, energy costs, and global emissions.
The project involves a combination of theoretical/computational studies, nanofabrication, nanocharacterization, development and implementation of thermal packaging and device assembly, and overall thermoelectric device testing and assessment.
Special Requirements
The student assistant is going to work with other team members closely to improve the assembly approach and the characterization setup being developed for the novel thermoelectric (T/E) device. Basic (freshman/sophomore) mechanical engineering background in materials science and manufacturing is encouraged. The student should be highly motivated, a team player, and interested in microscale devices, thermal/heat transport, fabrication, and laboratory testing.
Contact
- Mahmoud Hussein (faculty)
- Vladyslav Cherpak (graduate student)