In addition to Peltier cooling, thermoelectric materials can directly convert thermal energy into electricity due to the Seebeck effect. They can be valuable for energy saving via waste heat power generation and as stand alone power sources for innumerable sensors. The figure of merit ZT = S²σT/κ (S: Seebeck coefficient, σ: electrical conductivity, κ: thermal conductivity, T: temperature) is a measure of performance. There are paradoxical requirements between the parameters, and it is generally not easy to improve performance. However, various enhancement strategies are progressing, and while ZT ~ 1 was previously regarded as a benchmark for high performance, recently examples of ZT > 2 are being developed. Huge power factor S²σ has also been discovered in different systems. Regarding the theoretical aspects of thermoelectrics, the phenomenological, semiclassical Boltzmann theory has traditionally been used, but in recent years a quantum mechanical approach, the thermoelectric linear response theory (Kubo Luttinger theory) has been developed, and the path to discovering novel thermoelectric properties beyond conventional predictions has begun to open up. Furthermore, progress is being made in novel material systems such as topological materials, carbon nanotubes, and organic materials. In this way, various new principles based on the understanding of condensed matter properties have been progressing both experimentally and theoretically, and it is expected at this Workshop that through intensive discussion, new challenging perspectives will be opened up.

Details on the workshop and registration.