Recent advances in enhancing thermoelectric performance of polymeric materials

Abstract

The inherent low thermal conductivity, low cost, and flexibility of polymeric materials make them potential candidates for thermoelectric applications. Their eco-friendliness and mechanical flexibility are useful for the design of portable and flexible self-powered electronics. However, the heat-to-electrical power conversion efficiency, also known as the figure-of-merit (ZT), of polymer TE materials is low. Research efforts are in progress to enhance the thermoelectric performance of polymers and to find new kinds of polymer composites. Recent research innovations, such as chemical doping of polymers, development of nanocomposites and hybrid composites, and nanostructuring have significantly changed the thermoelectric properties of the polymeric materials. In this article, we summarize the recent developments and achievements in polymer materials for thermoelectric applications.