ABSTRACT
Thermoelectric materials are capable of converting a temperature gradient into useful electricity (Seebeck effect) and creating a temperature gradient from electricity (Peltier effect) [1,2]. The Seebeck effect has been used for power generation in spacecrafts such as the Voyager deep space probes for decades [3]. Moreover, thermoelectrics are investigated for electricity generation from the waste heat in automobiles and trucks to ultimately enhance the gas mileage by reducing the load on the alternator [4-7]. The Peltier effect is used for cooling in portable coolers and laptops and investigated for temperature control in car seats [8].
