An intelligent light-driven thermoelectric conversion system through the thermosensitive phase transition of vanadium dioxide

Abstract

Solar thermoelectric generation (STEG) is an environmentally-friendly, safe, and economical technique that can be used for sustainable solar energy utilization. Efficient and stable STEG depends on strong light absorption and stable temperature difference. Herein, we constructed a new intelligent light-driven thermoelectric conversion system with VO₂, polystyrene/Fe₂O₃-graphene nanosheets (PS/Fe₂O₃-GNS), and a thermoelectric module. The system can realize light-thermal-electric conversion and obtain a stable current owing to the infrared light transmittance switch of the VO₂ film, high visible-light absorbing ability of PS/Fe₂O₃-GNS, and thermoelectric effect of the thermoelectric module. Furthermore, the new system can operate normally under sunlight, indicating the prospect of practical application.