For the efficient utilization of energy resources and the minimization of environmental damage, thermoelectric materials can play an important role by converting waste heat into electricity directly. Nanostructured thermoelectric materials have received much attention recently due to the potential for enhanced properties associated with size effects and quantum confinement. Nanoscale Thermoelectrics describes the theory underlying these phenomena, as well as various thermoelectric materials and nanostructures such as carbon nanotubes, SiGe nanowires, and graphene nanoribbons. Chapters written by leading scientists throughout the world are intended to create a fundamental bridge between thermoelectrics and nanotechnology, and to stimulate readers' interest in developing new types of thermoelectric materials and devices for power generation and other applications. Nanoscale Thermoelectrics is both a comprehensive introduction to the field and a guide to further research, and can be recommended for Physics, Electrical Engineering, and Materials Science departments.
This book offers comprehensive coverage of thermoelectric materials and nanostructures. It provides the keys to understanding the theory underlying improvements in thermoelectric efficiency and describes a key enabling technology for energy applications.
Preface
Chapter 1: Thermoelectric effects: semiclassical and quantum approaches from the Boltzmann transport equation
Chapter 2: Electron transport engineering by nanostructures for efficient thermoelectrics
Chapter 3: Thermal Conductivity of Particulate Nanocomposites
Chapter 4: Nano Bulk Thermoelectrics: Concepts, Techniques, and Modeling
Chapter 5: Control Thermal Conductivity of Semiconductor Nanowires: Phononics Engineering
Chapter 6: Thermoelectric efficiency of nanowires with lonlÓ8