CAREER: Towards Engineering Thermal Transport in Nanostructured Based Devices

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy NY

Investigators

Abstract

In this work new experimental techniques are being developed to investigate electric-to-thermal energy conversion at nanojunctions and the effective thermal transport properties across current-carrying devices with nanosize interfaces, such as superlattice nanowires and nanowire-thin film junctions. Strategies to engineer the transport properties of nanostructured materials and/or nanojunctions using stress, strain, and temperature annealing are sought. The findings will be used to design and fabricate efficient thermoelectric energy-conversion devices, high thermal-conductivity carbon-nanotube composites, and nanojunctions with low electrical contact resistance. A multidisciplinary approach is leading to an understanding of key aspects of transport in nanomaterials and nanodevices with potential breakthroughs in designing efficient thermoelectric power generators and reliable carbon-nanotube-based nanoelectronics. The specific research activity is integrated with a comprehensive program of education and outreach designed to target participants over a wide range of age groups and scientific expertise.