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This work addresses the demand for better energy utilization by developing flexible, organic thermoelectric (OTE) films made of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) (PVDF-HFP), and liquid crystal (LC), a component known to enhance carrier transport and flexibility. The study first investigates the effect of LC on key material characteristics, including thermal conductivity. Notably, this research develops a thermoelectric generator (TEG) designed with electrospun fibers covering exactly half of the device surface. Leveraging the photo-thermal effect of the MWCNTs and the scattering properties of the fibers, this asymmetrical coating allows the TEG to self-generate a thermal gradient when exposed to infrared (IR) radiation. This design allows the device to function as a direct IR energy harvester from the environment, negating the requirement for external hot and cold junctions.
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Bose et al. (2026) studied this question.
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