Pyrite–Bismuth Telluride Heterojunction for Hybrid Electromagnetic-to-Thermoelectric Energy Harvesting

Abstract

The rapid proliferation of wireless networks and connected devices has led to pervasive electromagnetic (EM) energy dissipation into the environment—an underutilized resource for energy harvesting. Here, we demonstrate a pyrite (FeS2)–bismuth telluride (Bi2Te3) heterostructure that enables hybrid electromagnetic-to-thermoelectric energy conversion. Fabricated via a simple cold-press compaction of powders, the heterostructure forms a Schottky interface at FeS2, facilitating efficient RF absorption and localized heating. This heat is harvested by Bi2Te3 through thermoelectric conversion. Under 35 MHz RF irradiation at 1 W input power, the device achieved a local temperature rise of 46°C and a thermal gradient of 5.5 K across the Bi2Te3, resulting in a peak power density of ∼13 mW/cm2. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and density functional theory (DFT) calculations further elucidate the heat transport behaviour and interfacial thermoelectric performance. This work introduces a new class of heterostructures for RF-responsive energy harvesting, offering a scalable route toward self-powered IoT and wireless sensing systems.