Search

The DFT based calculations have been used to investigate the mechanical, thermoelectric and optical characteristics of Cesium based halides CsPbX 3 (X = F, Cl, Br) to elucidate the applications in renewable energy devices. The stability has been confirmed using the computed enthalpy formation, tolerance factor and mechanical stability criteria. The Poisson's and Pugh's ratios are employed to ensure the ductile nature. The kienman parameter and Debye temperature are applied to observe the bonding nature and thermodynamic behavior. The capability for withstanding the heat absorption and carrier mobility has been revealed using the computed specific heat capacity, Hall coefficient and electron density. The increasing specific heat capacity shows that thermodynamic stability improves with temperature. The lower thermal to electrical conductivity ratio (order of 10−6) increases the thermal efficiency from F to Br. Finally, the band gap tuning form ultraviolet to visible region appears by the change of ions from F to Br. The maximum absorption and minimum reflection in the visible to UV region reveals high potential for solar cell and optoelectronic applications. • The direct band gap semiconductors for solar cell and optoelectronic applications. • The CsPbX 3 (X = F, Cl, Br) are structurally, thermodynamically and mechanically stable in cubic phase. • The maximum absorption in visible and ultraviolet region of electromagnetic spectrum. • The thermal to electrical conductivity ratio is very small. • The Lead based halides are potential candidate for energy harvesting device fabrication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article reports that the British universities of Glasgow, Loughborough, Strathclyde, Leeds, Reading and Brunel is developing a lighter solar and thermoelectric-powered personal power pack to help troops on the battlefield.

In recent years, there has been a risen interest in heat recovery systems for building applications due to concerns about the energy crisis and global climate change. In this paper, the intention to understand the performance of a window thermoelectric heat pump/heat recovery system (Ecopump) for heating has been developed. An overview to the prototype design, heat transfer model, experimental parameters and environmental feasibility is discussed. The variation of MATLAB modelling results followed the same regularity as the experimental results. The MATLAB model along with Revit has been used to simulate the Ecopump's performance when installed in a sustainable house in the UK. From the calculation, Ecopump can provide 670 kWh heating energy and reduce 90.6 kg CO2 emissions per year. The proposed Ecopump system combined with window frame could be a promising technology to enhance space heating for domestic buildings while reducing energy consumption during daily ventilation. Further in situ experiments should be conducted to explore its comprehensive performance in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pedagogical tools are needed that link multidisciplinary nanoscience and technology (NST) to multiple state-of-the-art applications, including those requiring new fabrication routes relying on green synthesis. These can both educate and motivate the next generation of entrepreneurial NST scientists to create innovative products whilst protecting the environment and resources. Nanoporous silicon shows promise as such a tool as it can be fabricated from plants and waste materials, but also embodies many key educational concepts and key industrial uses identified for NST. Specific mechanical, thermal, and optical properties become highly tunable through nanoporosity. We also describe exceptional properties for nanostructured silicon like medical biodegradability and efficient light emission that open up new functionality for this semiconductor. Examples of prior lecture courses and potential laboratory projects are provided, based on the author's experiences in academic chemistry and physics departments in the USA and UK, together with industrial R&D in the medical, food, and consumer-care sectors. Nanoporous silicon-based lessons that engage students in the basics of entrepreneurship can also readily be identified, including idea generation, intellectual property, and clinical translation of nanomaterial products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]