Thermoelectricity

The article contains sections titled:

1.	Introduction
2.	Theory
2.1.	Definition of Thermoelectric Parameters
2.2.	Power Generation
2.3.	Peltier Cooling
2.4.	Thomson Effect
2.5.	Measurement of Thermoelectric Parameters
3.	Thermoelectric Materials
3.1.	State-of-the-Art Materials
3.2.	New Materials
4.	Nanothermoelectrics
4.1.	Thin Film Superlattices
4.2.	Nanocomposites
4.3.	Challenges and Perspectives for Nanothermoelectrics
5.	Application of Thermoelectric Devices
6.	Economic Aspects

Thermoelectricity is the conversion of thermal energy into electrical power and vice versa. Industrial importance has mainly its use for special cooling devices, but it can also be applied for waste heat recovery. The latter drives a huge interest in this technology due to the need for energy efficiency and reduction of CO₂-emissions. However, for a broad application the technology has to overcome several drawbacks regarding efficiency and costs.

This article describes the physical background of the technology, the principle of the devices, the materials used, some current trends to improve the technology, and important applications.