Pyroelectric Quantum Well Energy Harvesters
Project Introduction
Investigation of pyroelectric energy harvesters with enhanced efficiencies through quantum wells induced by a multilayer design.
We are investigating pyroelectric energy harvesters with enhanced efficiencies through quantum wells induced by a multilayer design. Pyroelectric materials generate surface charges/voltage when heated or cooled. This type of material has been investigated for energy harvesting applications, but has thus far yielded power far below theoretically calculated outputs. The innovation here is the multilayer design that takes advantage of quantum wells induced by thin layers of materials with mismatched band gaps to enhance local polarization of confined charge particles by a potential well with discrete energy thus enhancing power generation.
More »Anticipated Benefits
Takes advantage of temperature fluctuations in aerospace environments to supply power to electronic components.
More »Primary U.S. Work Locations and Key Partners
| Organizations Performing Work | Role | Type | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
Langley Research Center
(LaRC)
|
Lead Organization | NASA Center | Hampton, VA |
| Co-Funding Partners | Type | Location |
|---|---|---|
| National Institute of Aerospace | Industry |
Primary U.S. Work Locations
-
Virginia
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Organizational Responsibility
Responsible Mission Directorate:
- Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD)
Lead Center / Facility:
- Langley Research Center (LaRC)
Responsible Program:
- Center Innovation Fund: LaRC CIF
Project Management
Program Director:
Project Manager:
Principal Investigator:
Co-Investigators:
Project Duration
Technology Maturity (TRL)
| Start: | 2 |
| Current: | 3 |
| Estimated End: | 4 |
Technology Areas
Primary:
- TA 10 Nanotechnology
- TA 10.2 Energy Storage, Power Generation, and Power Distribution
- TA 10.2.2 Power Generation
Other / Cross-cutting:
- TA 3 Space Power and Energy Storage
- TA 3.1 Power Generation
