Beyond Traditional Thermal Convection: Spatiotemporal Modulation in Metamaterials

Abstract

AbstractThis chapter provides a review of one of the mechanisms underlying thermal convection in thermal metamaterials–the spatiotemporal modulation technique. In light of the current energy crisis, the significance of thermal management has become increasingly pronounced, with thermal convection offering versatility to the design of thermal metamaterials. While the motion of liquids or solids is a typical means of generating thermal convection, this chapter emphasizes that spatiotemporal modulation is also used to produce effects analogous to traditional thermal convection. Such modulation enhances the material’s intrinsic properties by dynamically adjusting its microstructures, significantly improving the ability of thermal metamaterials to regulate heat transfer. Additionally, the chapter delves into the use of spatiotemporal modulation to achieve thermal non-reciprocity and highlights its potential in controlling thermal transfer. Overall, spatiotemporal modulation presents an innovative perspective and platform for the research and application of thermal metamaterials, anticipated to play a pivotal role in future scientific investigations and technological advancements.