Thermoelectrics: A look back so we can move forward towards new materials developments
George S. Nolas
Department of Physics, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
The greater push for research and development on thermoelectric materials has resulted in tremendous scientific progress in recent years; however, the imbalance of research focus from materials that can transition from the laboratory into device production, as well as stability at operating temperatures, has undermined the incorporation of these new materials developments into thermoelectric power generation or refrigeration devices. The problem is exacerbated when a large number of diverging results are published. Moreover, certain compositions have only recently been realized and their transport properties are only now being investigated. Here theoretical first-principal calculations are not only invaluable in understanding the structureproperties relationships, but can also provide input for experimental direction. A truly rigorous approach must therefore include the power of computational methods to aid in the investigations of the appropriate mechanisms that lead to improved thermoelectric properties in specific crystal structures and compositional modifications. Here I will provide a brief overview of the “history” of thermoelectrics as well as give examples of some of the new materials developments, primarily focusing on the work in my laboratory, in order to present a perspective on the direction in the field as well as the enhancements that more intense theoretical “help” can provide towards new thermoelectric materials developments that may lead to device improvements.