Geometric design of Cu2Se-based thermoelectric device for enhancing power generation

Abstract

Abstract Waste heat, an abundant energy source generated by both industries and nature, has the potential to be harnessed into electricity via thermoelectric power generation. The performance of thermoelectric modules, typically composed of cuboid-shaped materials, depends on both the materials’ intrinsic properties and the temperature difference created. Despite significant advancements in the development of efficient materials, macroscopic thermal designs capable of accommodating larger temperature differences have been largely underexplored because of the challenges associated with processing bulk thermoelectric materials. Herein, we present the design strategy for Cu2Se thermoelectric materials for high-temperature power generation using a combination of finite element modelling and 3D printing. The macroscopic geometries and microscopic defects in Cu2Se materials are precisely engineered by optimising the 3D printing and post-treatment processes, leading to significant enhancements in the material efficiency and temperature difference within devices, where the hourglass geometry exhibits maximised output powers. The proposed approach paves the way for designing efficient thermoelectric power generators.