Recent Progress of Powering IoT Based on Thermoelectric Technology

With the rapid advancement of electronic devices, Internet of Things (IoT) technology has become increasingly integrated into everyday life. However, its broader development has been restricted by challenges related to long-term maintenance and the frequent need for power source replacements. Among the available power supply solutions, thermoelectric power generation has garnered significant interest due to its high reliability. Nevertheless, the widespread application of thermoelectric generators (TEGs) in IoT remains limited due to their relatively low conversion efficiency and structural fragility. This review systematically summarizes recent strategies aimed at enhancing the output performance and durability of TEGs through improvements in manufacturing processes and performance optimization techniques. It highlights several fabrication methods capable of endowing devices with superior flexibility and reliability, including screen printing, chemical vapor deposition (CVD), and electrospray deposition. Additionally, we discuss two key approaches for improving power generation performance: advanced material selection and multi-mechanism hybridization. Finally, the article explores the applications of TEGs in thermal energy harvesting from wearable devices, ambient environments, and aerospace fields, demonstrating their substantial potential to provide sustainable energy for IoT devices.