Improving the Thermoelectric Performance of Polymer Nanocomposite Thin Films

Abstract

Thermoelectricity is a promising alternative energy generation method as it captures dissipated thermal energy and converts it into useful electrical energy. The most common thermoelectric materials are inorganic semiconductors, but these compounds have issues of scarcity, toxicity and mechanical rigidity. In an effort to create good performing thermoelectrics, while combatting the issues faced with traditional materials, polymer nanocomposites comprised of carbonaceous nanofillers (i.e. carbon nanotubes and graphene) and conducting polymers have been prepared using layer-by-layer assembly. While films deposited using layer-by-layer assembly exhibit good thermoelectric performance, there is a limited number of strategies to improve these materials other than selecting different film constituents. This dissertation describes two novel strategies – post-deposition thermal treatment and salt doping – to improve the thermoelectric performance of these films that could aid in the realization of organic thermoelectric devices at low operating temperatures.