Thermoelectrics Network -TEMPEST (ThermoElectric Materials, Physics, Electronics & SysTems)

The Seebeck and Peltier effects are thermoelectric effects which occur particularly strongly in semiconductors whereby a temperature gradient across a material is converted to a current which can be exploited for power generation, or the use of an externally supplied electrical current to cause a flow of heat in the material. The growing concern over fossil fuels and carbon emissions has led to detailed reviews of all aspects of energy generation, transportation and routes to reduce consumption. Thermoelectric (TE) technology, utilising the direct conversion of waste heat into electric power or vice versa has emerged as a serious contender, particularly for self-powered sensors, automotive and heat engine related applications. Thermoelectric power modules employ multiple pairs of n-type and p-type TE materials arranged electrically in series and thermally in parallel and formed into ceramic modules of usually less than 60mm x 60mm.
In an effort to enhance the UK's capability in this key area, we propose to establish a network in TE materials, device physics and systems. The network will serve as a focal point for activity and bring together workers in different disciplines to define and address the considerable research challenges presented in realising the potential offered by this technology. The initial membership of the Network will include 13 universities (representing Physics, Chemistry, Materials and Engineering disciplines), The National Physical Laboratory, 7 industrial partners covering all aspects of the Thermoelectric module design and manufacture supply chain, plus a large number of end users. In total over 32 individual organisations will be represented. With a broad based interdisciplinary partnership we will adopt an integrated approach addressing:

(i) Theory - to understand the factors controlling thermoelectric properties and ways to predict properties on the basis of structure and composition.
(ii) Investigations of structure - at both atomic levels and microstructure levels to underpin theoretical studies and support processing-structure-properties studies.
(iii) Materials and device processing - to identify ways of improving materials and devices
(iv) Property Measurements - validation of measurement techniques
(v) Simulation and modelling of device and system performance
(vi) Interfaces and interconnects - understanding the problems limiting performance
(vii) Systems electronics- identification of architectures appropriate to different applications;
(viii) Applications and Markets - identifying needs and the devices/systems required.

A management committee will be established to co-ordinate the activities of the Network and to monitor the scientific and technical programmes. The management committee will: (i) organise at least two meetings per year and an annual workshop; (ii) help with defining themes for collaborative programmes; (iii) assist with the exchange of students/workers; (iv) establish links with national and international organisations. A secretary/administrator will support day to day running of the Network, and be responsible for communication via a web page and newsletters. The Network will provide increased opportunities for joint projects, inter-laboratory measurement comparisons, the definition of a Roadmap for Thermoelectrics, and the initiation of novel research programmes.

The project will link together a large number of academic groups and industrial partners (at least 30 initially) representing all aspects of the supply chain involved in the development and exploitation of thermoelectric materials and associated technologies for the generation of electrical energy or the management of thermal energy. The beneficiaries in the commercial sector are threefold: (i) materials manufacturers who will have new products, (ii) producers of energy management devices who will be able to develop new products for new low and high temperature markets, and (iii) users of thermoelectric modules, such as motor vehicle manufacturers, generating energy from waste heat contained in the vehicle's exhaust gases. Policy makers will benefit from the research by knowledge of developments of environmentally friendly methods of energy generation and a way to help reduce the use of fossil fuels. There will be opportunities for museums and science centres with exhibits highlighting the principles of thermoelectric energy transformation via applications from automobiles to domestic refrigerators to high performance Games consoles.

To the wider public there will be environmental benefits of utilising thermoelectric devices and systems for increasing the efficiency of the processes to extract energy from fossil fuels, leading to improved fuel consumption for automobiles and industrial plants with the accompanying environmental benefits and a slowing of the consumption of natural resources. This will yield economic benefit to individuals and the UK. The research has the potential to impact the wealth and the economic competitiveness of the UK by assisting in the development of enhanced thermoelectric materials, power and heat pump modules. For UK companies there will be new opportunities and new markets in the production of superior materials, the development of energy management systems, and exploitation of hybrid and combined cycle energy generation systems. All companies in the supply chain should become more competitive. With generation of power from waste heat in the automobile and other sectors there will be improved fuel consumption and the potential for reduction of imported oil to the UK, giving additional economic benefits. New thermoelectric power modules should be realised within 3-5 years, bringing benefits to companies in the supply chain within 3-7 years. The wider benefits of effective power generation and potential reduction of oil consumption through the transition to sustainable energy sources should come within 5-10 years.

Researchers working on the supporting projects will gain transferable skills in materials synthesis, characterisation, modelling, module and system engineering, thermal and electrical interfacing and numerous application areas. They will also become proficient in report writing and critical analysis that will be of value in future employment.

We will establish a network linking UK industrial companies relevant to the supply chain, users of power generation modules, plus academics in the field. Regular contact will be maintained and news of developments will be circulated via electronic newsletters and the Network's website. The programme of Workshops, Network Conferences and training events will provide opportunities for network members to develop new collaborative projects.Non-confidential findings will be published on a project web page. Scientific and technological findings will be disseminated to the academic and industrial communities via presentations at major international and trade conferences and high impact refereed publications.