Recent Progress of Powering IoT Based on Thermoelectric Technology

Area of Science:

• Materials Science and Engineering
• Energy Harvesting Technologies
• Internet of Things (IoT) Systems

Background:

• Internet of Things (IoT) devices require reliable, long-term power solutions.
• Thermoelectric generators (TEGs) offer high reliability but face limitations in efficiency and durability for IoT applications.
• Current challenges include frequent power source replacements and structural fragility of TEGs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review recent advancements in thermoelectric generator (TEG) technology for IoT applications.
• To identify strategies for enhancing TEG output performance and durability.
• To explore the potential of TEGs in sustainable energy harvesting for diverse IoT fields.

Main Methods:

• Review of advanced fabrication methods: screen printing, chemical vapor deposition (CVD), and electrospray deposition for improved flexibility and reliability.
• Analysis of performance optimization techniques: advanced material selection and multi-mechanism hybridization.
• Exploration of thermal energy harvesting applications in wearable devices, ambient environments, and aerospace.

Main Results:

• Fabrication methods like screen printing, CVD, and electrospray deposition enhance TEG flexibility and reliability.
• Advanced materials and hybridization techniques show promise for boosting power generation efficiency.
• TEGs demonstrate significant potential for sustainable energy harvesting across various IoT sectors.

Conclusions:

• Optimized manufacturing processes and material innovations are crucial for overcoming TEG limitations in IoT.
• Thermoelectric power generation offers a viable path towards sustainable and reliable energy for the expanding IoT ecosystem.
• Further research into TEG applications can unlock widespread adoption in wearable, environmental, and aerospace IoT.