Thermoelectric Effect And Advanced Microelectronics
Thermoelectric Effect and Advanced Microelectronics
Thermoelectric Effect
The thermoelectric effect involves the direct conversion of temperature differences to electric voltage and vice versa via a thermocouple. This phenomenon can be divided into three main effects: the Seebeck effect, the Peltier effect, and the Thomson effect.
Seebeck Effect
The Seebeck effect is observed when a circuit made of two different conductors or semiconductors generates a voltage when exposed to a temperature gradient. This effect is the fundamental principle behind most thermoelectric generators.
Peltier Effect
The Peltier effect occurs when an electric current flows through the junction of two different materials, causing heat to be absorbed or emitted at the junction. This effect is utilized in thermoelectric cooling devices.
Thomson Effect
The Thomson effect describes the heating or cooling of a current-carrying conductor with a temperature gradient. This effect is less commonly applied than the Seebeck or Peltier effects.
Applications
Thermoelectric Generators
Thermoelectric generators (TEGs) convert heat directly into electrical energy using the Seebeck effect. These generators are used in various applications, including space missions with multi-mission radioisotope thermoelectric generators.
Thermoelectric Cooling
Thermoelectric coolers use the Peltier effect to transfer heat from one side of the device to the other. These devices are commonly used in electronic cooling applications where traditional refrigeration is impractical.
Automotive Thermoelectric Generators
Automotive thermoelectric generators (ATEGs) utilize the waste heat from a vehicle's exhaust system to generate electricity, improving overall fuel efficiency.
Advanced Microelectronics
Advanced microelectronics involves the development and application of highly specialized electronic circuits and devices at the micro and nano scales. This field encompasses various technologies and components, including silicon on insulator (SOI) and time-to-digital converters.
Silicon on Insulator (SOI)
Silicon on insulator (SOI) technology improves the performance of semiconductor devices by reducing parasitic capacitance, which in turn enhances speed and reduces power consumption. SOI is widely used in advanced microelectronics for applications such as microprocessors and high-speed communication devices.
Microelectronics and Computer Technology Corporation (MCC)
The Microelectronics and Computer Technology Corporation (MCC) was a consortium of American computer companies that conducted research and development in microelectronics and computer technology.
Key Players
Fujitsu
Fujitsu is a major player in the advanced microelectronics industry, offering services and products in data storage, telecommunications, and air conditioning.
AMD
AMD (Advanced Micro Devices) is well-known for its microprocessors and advanced microelectronics solutions. The company has transferred some of its lines to Raza Microelectronics, Inc., which specializes in MIPS processors for embedded applications.
IMEC
IMEC is a leading research center in microelectronics and nanotechnology, headquartered in Belgium. It focuses on developing innovative solutions to advance the microelectronics industry.
DARPA
The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) supports the development of advanced microelectronics, aiming to create sensor microelectronics that operate in harsh environments.