Development and Characterization of Thermo Electric Material for 3D Printing Thermo Electric Generator

Abstract

The development of efficient thermoelectric (TE) materials compatible with 3D printing technologies has significant potential for creating custom, scalable, and eco-friendly power generation solutions. This study focuses on the synthesis, optimization, and characterization of thermoelectric materials designed for 3D printing applications. The goal is to achieve enhanced electrical conductivity, thermal stability, and optimized Seebeck coefficients to maximize power generation efficiency. Using a combination of nanoscale fillers and conductive polymers, we fabricated thermoelectric inks that can be extruded through various 3D printing techniques. Comprehensive characterization methods, including electrical conductivity, Seebeck coefficient measurements, thermal conductivity, and morphological analysis, were employed to assess the performance and microstructure of the printed TE materials. Our results show promising power factors and conversion efficiencies, demonstrating the feasibility of using 3D printing for thermoelectric materials with applications in wearable electronics, energy harvesting, and temperature control systems. This work highlights the potential of additive manufacturing in advancing thermoelectric materials for flexible, customizable, and scalable energy solutions