Advances in printing techniques for thermoelectric materials and devices

Abstract

Thermoelectric materials and devices have garnered significant attention in recent years due to their potential for converting waste heat into usable electricity, opening new avenues for sustainable energy harvesting. As research in the field of thermoelectric materials and devices continues to grow, so does the need for efficient and scalable fabrication methods. Among various fabrication techniques, printing methods have emerged as promising approaches to producing thermoelectric materials and devices, offering advantages such as low cost, high throughput, and design flexibility. Here, we overview the recent advances in printing methods for the fabrication of thermoelectric materials and devices. We discuss the key principles, challenges, and opportunities associated with various printing techniques, including screen printing, inkjet printing, and 3D printing, with a focus on their applications in thermoelectric materials and devices. Furthermore, we highlight the progress made in optimizing the printing parameters, ink formulations, and post-processing methods to enhance the thermoelectric performance of printed materials and devices. Finally, we provide insights into the prospects and potential research directions in the field of printing methods for thermoelectric materials and devices. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the state-of-the-art printing techniques for thermoelectric materials and devices and to serve as a reference for researchers and practitioners working in this rapidly growing field.

Keywords

Flexible thermoelectric generators / large-scale fabrication / printing technology / transport of charge carriers / phonon scatterings

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