Introduction to thermoelectrics

G. D. Mahan

ABSTRACT

The main ideas in the theory of thermoelectrics are discussed. We discuss power generation, thermoelectric cooling, transport theory, the Seebeck coefficient, and phonon drag.

Thermoelectric materials are semiconductors that have a strong coupling between the flow of heat and the flow of electricity.1,2 These materials are important for two types of solid state devices:

•	Solid state refrigerators, where the heat inside the refrigerator is removed by running a current through the walls. Usually one wants to cool below room temperature. Thermoelectric materials are needed that operate at or below room temperature.
•	Power generation from waste heat: Generating electrical power from heat flow. Usually the heat flow is from a hot source above room temperature.Thermoelectric materials are needed that operate above room temperature.

To download the article click on the link below:

http://aip.scitation.org/doi/10.1063/1.4954055?Track=APMfb