How Does Nanotechnology Enhance Thermoelectric Properties?
Nanotechnology improves thermoelectric properties through several mechanisms:
1. Increased Surface Area: Nanomaterials have a larger surface-to-volume ratio, which enhances their ability to interact with heat and electrons. 2. Quantum Confinement: In quantum dots and nanowires, the confinement of electrons can lead to an increased Seebeck coefficient. 3. Phonon Scattering: Reduced dimensions cause more scattering of phonons, which lowers thermal conductivity and enhances the thermoelectric performance.
