ABSTRACT
This chapter presents and elucidates one such approach from both experimental as well as theoretical points of view. It examines the role entropy plays as a factor determining thermoelectric conversion efficiency. The thermoelectric power, a, according to a thoroughgoing analysis by Callen based on irreversible thermodynamics, can be considered as the entropy transported per coulomb of electron flow. Unequivocal proof of effective entropy transport across semiconductor/metal interfaces would have profound consequences on the future development of high-performance thermoelectrics. A novel approach to the development of high-performance thermoelectric materials is discussed focusing on the transformation of configurational to carrier entropy in a doped semiconductor core with subsequent transport of carrier entropy in a metallic shell. Several conclusions drawn from the work on carbon nanoensembles have determined the directions of research aimed at improving thermoelectric performance. Reflecting the interactive nature of the nanoparticles, we call the resulting substances bulk nanoensembles.
