Recent Progress of Powering IoT Based on Thermoelectric Technology

Year: 2025

Type: review

Abstract: With the rapid advancement of electronic devices, Internet of Things (IoT) technology has become increasingly integrated into everyday life. However, its broader development has been restricted by challenges related to long-term maintenance and the frequent need for power source replacements. Among the available power supply solutions, thermoelectric power generation has garnered significant interest due to its high reliability. Nevertheless, the widespread application of thermoelectric generators (TEGs) in IoT remains limited due to their relatively low conversion efficiency and structural fragility. This review systematically summarizes recent strategies aimed at enhancing the output performance and durability of TEGs through improvements in manufacturing processes and performance optimization techniques. It highlights several fabrication methods capable of endowing devices with superior flexibility and reliability, including screen printing, chemical vapor deposition (CVD), and electrospray deposition. Additionally, we discuss two key approaches for improving power generation performance: advanced material selection and multi-mechanism hybridization. Finally, the article explores the applications of TEGs in thermal energy harvesting from wearable devices, ambient environments, and aerospace fields, demonstrating their substantial potential to provide sustainable energy for IoT devices.

Source: Micromachines

DOI: 10.3390/mi16091017

Authors: Jinhong Dai, Haitao Deng, Jingwen Huang, Xiaosheng Zhang

Institutions: University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, The University of Tokyo

Language: English

Topic: Advanced Thermoelectric Materials and Devices

Subfield: Materials Chemistry

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Affordable and clean energy

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,534

Funders: National Natural Science Foundation of China, Natural Science Foundation of Sichuan Province, National Key Research and Development Program of China, Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities

OpenAlex ID: W4413896155