On December 8, the Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT) unveiled a new method for creating thermoelectric thin films using copper sulfide (CuS). Developed in collaboration with Professor Seok-Woo Jeon’s team from Korea University, the research was published in InfoMat.
This breakthrough technology aims to boost energy efficiency by converting waste heat into electricity, addressing the issue where over 65% of energy in industries like power plants, shipping, and vehicles is lost as heat. Traditional thermoelectric materials like bismuth telluride (Bi₂Te₃) and lead telluride (PbTe) offer high efficiency but are costly and toxic. In contrast, CuS is affordable and non-toxic.
The KRICT team developed a simpler, faster method for producing CuS thin films by immersing copper foil in a sulfur solution, which allows for precise control over the material’s crystallization. The resulting micro-pillar structure reduces heat transfer, enhancing thermoelectric efficiency. At 367.85°C, the CuS thin film achieved a ZT value of 0.91, making it suitable for industrial applications. It can also generate milliwatt-level power when there is a 40°C temperature difference, ideal for low-power sensors.
The research team plans to apply the CuS technology to wearable devices and energy-harvesting technologies, aiming for commercialization. This development is expected to contribute significantly to improving energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
KRICT President Young-Kuk Lee emphasized that this eco-friendly material could help solve future energy problems, particularly in waste heat recovery and wearable device innovation.
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