Organic Thermoelectric Materials

Abstract

This book chapter provides a comprehensive overview of organic thermoelectric materials and their potential applications. Organic materials have recently emerged as promising candidates for thermoelectric devices due to their unique combination of electrical conductivity and thermal properties. The chapter begins by discussing the fundamental principles and mechanisms underlying the thermoelectric effect in organic materials, including the Seebeck coefficient, electrical conductivity, and thermal conductivity. It further explores various strategies employed to enhance the thermoelectric performance of organic materials, such as molecular design, doping, and nanostructuring. Additionally, the chapter highlights recent advancements in the synthesis and characterization of organic thermoelectric materials, including polymer-based systems, small organic molecules, and hybrid organic-inorganic composites. The discussion also extends to the evaluation techniques and metrics used to assess the thermoelectric efficiency of organic materials. Furthermore, the chapter sheds light on the challenges and opportunities in the field, such as stability, scalability, and cost-effectiveness, along with potential applications in energy harvesting, waste heat recovery, and wearable electronics. Overall, this book chapter aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of organic thermoelectric materials and their significant role in advancing thermoelectric technology.