Thermoelectric Modules (TEM) Physics is based on the Seebeck Effect (1821) for the power generation the Peltier Effect (1834) for cooling TEM are solid state heat engines Electrons and holes in the solid state semiconductors act as the “fluid” TEM are reversible! Temperature difference results in an electrical potential Voltage applied across the leads results in heating and cooling

For Optimal Efficiency TEM Require poor thermal conductivity good electrical conductivity Humm?? Just think about that for a sec Most of the materials you know are either good at both or poor at both This is an exciting area of materials research

Another way to get good electrical conduction with poor thermal conduction is to use different materials Thermoelectric Modules are constructed with the following: There are electrically conducting metal plates connecting the individual segments (legs) Ceramic plates at both ends thermally insulating

Thermoelectric Modules Power Generation by Seebeck Effect ceramic insulator Cold side metal conductor Alternating n and p type semiconductor “legs” arranged in series p type p type metal conductor n type n type Hot side ceramic insulator I

Thermal image of three individual segments Cold side ceramic Individual segment Hot side ceramic Visual image of the same three individual segments

Electrical leads Metal conductor between legs Ceramic plates Individual semiconductor leg