Solid-liquid thermoelectric systems with uncorrelated properties

Thermoelectrics, which can be used to recover energy from waste heat, is a niche technology with considerable growth potential that is limited by low efficiency. To improve the efficiency of thermal to electrical energy conversion, the EU-funded UncorrelaTEd project will develop a new paradigm involving a properly designed hybrid system. This system is formed by a porous thermoelectric solid permeated by a liquid electrolyte that is already showing great promise with unprecedented improvements in power factor. Project outcomes will enable thermoelectric technology to be implemented in numerous areas, such as the realm of self-powered sensors. Realisation will reduce the demand for batteries, textiles, factories, power plants and combustion engines that have a high carbon footprint.