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Coherent Thermoelectric Power from Graphene Quantum Dots
Mali Zhao1, Dohyun Kim1, Van Luan Nguyen2
1Department of Energy Science , Sungkyunkwan University , Suwon 16419 , Korea.
Nano Letters
|December 22, 2018
Summary
Quantum confinement in graphene quantum dots enables coherent thermoelectric power generation at room temperature. This discovery enhances thermoelectric device efficiency by leveraging resonant states in low-dimensional materials.
Area of Science:
- Condensed matter physics
- Materials science
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Quantum confinement of charge carriers is a key strategy for improving thermoelectric device efficiency.
- Previous studies relied on macroscopic measurements of diffusive electron transport.
- Understanding the precise role of quantum confinement in thermoelectrics requires advanced techniques.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate a novel thermoelectric operation based on quasi-bound states in low-dimensional materials.
- To observe and characterize coherent thermoelectric power generation at the nanoscale.
- To explore the potential of graphene quantum dots for atomic-scale thermoelectric microscopy.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of graphene quantum dots (GQDs) as circular n-p-n junctions.
- Electrostatic confinement of charges within p-type GQDs.
- Atomic-scale thermoelectric microscopy to visualize thermoelectric power generation.
- Measurement of coherent thermoelectric power at room temperature.
Main Results:
- Observation of coherent thermoelectric power generation in nanometer-scale graphene quantum dots.
- Demonstration of thermoelectric microscopy at the atomic scale.
- Identification of weakly localized and coherent thermoelectric power generation.
- Evidence of thermoelectric operation originating from quasi-bound electron states.
Conclusions:
- A new class of thermoelectric operation has been identified, driven by quasi-bound states in low-dimensional materials.
- Graphene quantum dots offer a platform for observing and enhancing coherent thermoelectric effects.
- Resonant states in charge carriers can selectively boost coherent thermoelectric power in nanostructured materials.
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