Device and Module Design

For thermoelectric technologies to transition from laboratory research to practical application, advanced material performance must be coupled with strategic module design and system integration. Because organic thermoelectric materials are predominantly fabricated as thin films, unique engineering approaches are required to modularize them effectively. This chapter explores design methodologies for maximizing power output per unit area and volume. Detailed guidelines are provided for minimizing this contact resistance, mitigating the reduction of the effective temperature difference, and constructing all-organic laminated modules. Furthermore, practical demonstrations illustrate how this harvested power can simultaneously drive multiple sensors and Bluetooth communication units, as well as recharge commercially available lithium-ion secondary batteries.