2. 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

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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

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

7. Electrical leads
Metal conductor between legs
Ceramic plates
Individual semiconductor leg