Breakthrough in Waste Heat Energy Conversion

Researchers have developed a new material that transforms waste heat into energy and uses fere-crystals with twisted layers. The material boasts a high thermoelectric figure of merit, exceeding 2, effectively capturing waste heat from various sources.

About Ferecrystals

Ferecrystals are a specific type of two-dimensional (2D) material, consisting of alternating layers that are just a few atoms thick. These layers are slightly misaligned and twisted. This unique structure blocks heat waves efficiently.

Thermoelectric Figure of Merit

The thermoelectric figure of merit is an important measurement, that indicates how well a material converts heat to electricity. The new material achieved a figure of merit of 2.3. This value demonstrates its exceptional energy conversion capabilities.

Construction of the Material

The material is built using 2D superlattice structures. These structures are created by stacking layers in a periodic manner. The research team stabilised ferecrystals within a solid-state matrix of SnSe (tin selenide). N-type halide doping enhanced the material’s performance.

The project was led by Professor Kanishka Biswas and Ph.D. student Ms. Vaishali Taneja. They are affiliated with the Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research in Bengaluru. They collaborated with Professor N. Ravishankar from IISc Bengaluru for advanced microscopy techniques.

Microscopy Techniques and Findings

Advanced microscopy revealed layers of TaSe₂ (tantalum selenide) within SnSe. The twisting between these layers was . This arrangement allows the material to block heat while conducting electricity effectively.

This research marks advancement in thermoelectric technology, has the potential to improve energy efficiency in various industries. The findings could lead to innovative materials for capturing and reusing waste heat.

GKToday Facts for Exams:

1. Ferecrystals Ferecrystals are unique two-dimensional materials. They consist of twisted, misaligned layers. This structure effectively blocks heat waves while allowing electrical conductivity.
2. Thermoelectric Figure of Merit The thermoelectric figure of merit measures energy conversion efficiency. A higher value indicates better performance. The new material achieved a figure of merit of 2.3.
3. SnSe (Tin Selenide) SnSe is a compound used in thermoelectric materials. It serves as a solid-state matrix. The addition of ferecrystals enhances its energy conversion capabilities.
4. TaSe₂ (Tantalum Selenide) TaSe₂ is a layered material found in advanced microscopy studies. Its unique arrangement contributes to heat blocking. This property is crucial for effective thermoelectric applications.

Month: Current Affairs - December, 2024

Category: Science & Technology Current Affairs