Segregated-Network Nanoparticle Polymer Composites for Thermoelectric Energy Conversion

Case Number: 2846TEES09

Applications:
Portable power generation
Solid-state heat transfer devices

Description of Technology:
     Thermoelectric materials convert a temperature gradient directly into a voltage gradient, or vice versa. The thermoelectric effect has been known since the 19th century, but thermoelectric devices have found limited small-scale applications due to their low efficiency and relatively high cost. Recent advances in nanotechnology have reignited interest in this area by opening up new possibilities for the design of inexpensive and high-efficiency thermoelectrics based on nanostructured materials.
     This invention describes a new thermoelectric material composed of a dense network of overlapping carbon nanotubes (CNT) contained in segregated, but contiguous, zones within an organic polymer matrix. Junctions between the CNTs confer good electrical conductivity to the material, but the composite displays a low thermal conductivity that is characteristic of the matrix polymer. These properties are favorable for thermoelectrics. First-generation prototype materials displayed thermoelectric figures of merit (ZT) exceeding 0.01 at room temperature, significantly higher than those of other polymer-based thermoelectrics. The materials are inherently light weight since they are based on polymers and can be prepared by a straightforward route that is amenable to scale-up. Ongoing research is directed toward development of second-generation thermoelectrics with higher ZT properties. Additional details and electron micrographs of these unique materials are available in the following recent publication: Yu, C., Kim, Y.S., Kim, D., and Grunlan, J., "Thermoelectric Behavior of Segregated-Network Polymer Nanocomposites", Nano Letters, 2008, 8 (12), 4428-4432.
     This technology offers an outstanding opportunity for development of unique new products incorporating light-weight thermoelectric materials. Example applications could include harvesting of waste heat for conversion into electricity for remote locations or controlling temperature in electronic devices. The technology status is early-stage. Please inquire about opportunities in sponsored research and licensing. Patent pending.

Inventors:
Prof. Choongho Yu and Prof. Jaime C. Grunlan, both of the Dept. of Mechanical Engineering, Texas A&M University

Contact:
Elaine A. Lange, Ph.D.
Licensing Manager
Office of Technology Commercialization
The Texas A&M University System
MS 3369 TAMU
College Station, TX 77843-3369
ph/vm 979.845.2689
e-lange@tamu.edu

Taxonomy: Materials, Electric Power
Status: Marketing

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