Nanostructure-based thermoelectric conversion: an insight into the feasibility and sustainability for large-scale deployment

Abstract

Significant scientific progress has been achieved using nanostructured materials for thermoelectric energy harvesting and solid-state cooling through the conversion of waste heat into electricity and vice versa. However, the connection between the small-scale proof-of concept results achieved in research labs and real industrial scale manufacture is still missing. Herein we develop an analysis to determine the appropriate thermoelectric nanomaterials for the large-scale manufacture and deployment in the near future. We cover key parameters such as ZT value, cost, abundance, and toxicity. Maximum ZT values are considered at three temperature ranges. Material cost and abundance are visually demonstrated to improve ease of interpretation. Toxicity is also evaluated to minimize the environmental impact during manufacture and recycling. Lastly, a parameter termed “efficiency ratio” is calculated to give a better qualitative understanding of the feasibility and sustainability of these nanomaterials.