Abstract
Nanofluidics have attracted great attention for electrokinetic energy conversion. Recently the application of nanofluidic systems for thermoelectric energy harvesting has intrigued researchers with various research backgrounds. It has been shown that the equivalent Seebeck coefficient can be greatly enhanced in confined nanofluidic channels with hydrodynamically slippery boundary conditions, indicating great potential for highly efficient and environment-friendly low-grade thermal energy harvesting. In this chapter, we will first introduce the basic electrokinetic theories behind the thermoelectric response. Next, the current understanding of the thermoelectric coupling mechanism in confined nanochannels will be depicted. Strategies to improve the thermoelectric coupling efficiency will be illustrated. Then, the most recent experimental achievements in this field will be reviewed. Besides, the main challenges and prospective will also be discussed. Based on this chapter, we intend to give a fundamental introduction to the theoretical framework of nanofluidic thermoelectricity and present the opportunities and challenges facing this emerging field.