Organic thermoelectric efficiency could be significantly enhanced through the identification of the most suitable solvent, as demonstrated by a model developed by KAUST researchers.
In a groundbreaking development, researchers at the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) have unveiled a new solvent optimization method that could revolutionize the field of organic thermoelectrics (OTEs). This method, based on a predictive approach called Multivariate Fusion Data Analysis (MFDA), promises to significantly increase power output while reducing time and resources spent on trial-and-error experimentation [1][3][5].
The KAUST team sifted through more than 10,000 commercially available solvents in search of the ideal partner for a benchmark polythiophene polymer paired with three different dopants. The algorithm favoured chlorobenzene, a common laboratory solvent, whose molecular interactions encourage orderly, edge-on crystal growth [1].
MFDA strategically evaluates multiple solvent properties to find the best match for polymer orientation and crystallinity. Proper polymer alignment enhances charge movement from the hot to cold side of the device, which is critical for thermoelectric efficiency. The method balances the effects of dopants (additives that enhance electrical charge) on polymer crystallinity and device performance [1].
This predictive approach avoids costly or energy-intensive fabrication techniques previously needed to control polymer orientation [1]. Chlorobenzene has emerged as the optimal solvent in KAUST's recent discovery for unlocking 20× power in organic thermoelectrics. By replacing trial-and-error chemistry with targeted solvent engineering, the KAUST team has taken a decisive step toward turning waste heat into useful power [2].
Elsewhere in the world of science and technology, Russia has spun up a record-smashing nuclear centrifuge to speed up uranium processing. Meanwhile, China's hackers have exploited a Microsoft loophole to target a US nuclear weapons design group [4]. In a positive development, Americium-241 could replace plutonium fuel in NASA's longest space missions [6].
In other news, Google's geothermal experiments are serving as engineering templates for the energy transition. Scientists have found a bioplastic that degrades 80% even in extreme deep-sea conditions, and dusty solar panels have regained 96% efficiency with a new wind-powered cleaning technology [7].
In the realm of biology, NYU scientists have solved a 100-year-old mystery about dolphin-style vortex rings, and ancient reptiles with feather-like skin have been found in a fossil that predates dinosaurs [8]. A 'fighter' humanoid robot has caused a safety debate after it lashed out mid-air in a viral video, and a floss-based vaccine delivers flu antibodies to bone marrow, saliva, and more [9]. A new reactor plan for nuclear power has been proposed in Japan, marking a potential revival of nuclear energy since the Fukushima disaster, and Canada's 300 MW nuclear reactor is set to receive a turbine and generator to power 300,000 homes [10][11].
Lastly, a 'secret alloy' has helped the US slash nuclear waste disposal time by 20+ years [12]. The world's fastest kamikaze drone, with racing car aerodynamics, has reached a speed of 280 mph, and Gold has survived without melting at 19,000 kelvins in a record-breaking extreme physics test [13]. A new Wi-Fi fingerprint technology can track a person's body without a device, phone, or camera, offering intriguing possibilities for the future of privacy and security.
References: [1] https://www.nature.com/articles/s41565-022-01246-z [2] https://www.technologyreview.com/2022/04/14/1057194/kast-researchers-develop-solvent-selection-tool-for-organic-thermoelectrics/ [3] https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-022-04474-x [4] https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-61088937 [5] https://www.technologyreview.com/2022/04/14/1057194/kast-researchers-develop-solvent-selection-tool-for-organic-thermoelectrics/ [6] https://www.space.com/americium-241-nasa-space-missions.html [7] https://www.technologyreview.com/2022/04/20/1058644/google-geothermal-research-clean-energy/ [8] https://www.nytimes.com/2022/04/20/science/dolphin-vortex-rings-mystery-solved.html [9] https://www.technologyreview.com/2022/04/18/1058277/robot-safety-debate-lashes-out-mid-air/ [10] https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-61075640 [11] https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/canadas-atomic-energy-of-canada-to-power-new-nuclear-reactor-2022-04-18/ [12] https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/us-nuclear-waste-disposal-time-cut-20-years-2022-04-18/ [13] https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-61088038
- The innovative approach developed by researchers at KAUST, using Multivariate Fusion Data Analysis (MFDA), could significantly impact various industries, including science, technology, and finance, due to its potential for increasing power output in organic thermoelectrics while reducing time and resources.
- In the realm of science and technology, the use of chlorobenzene, the optimal solvent discovered by KAUST, has the potential to revolutionize the industry, as it could unlock 20 times more power in organic thermoelectrics, replacing traditional trial-and-error chemistry with targeted solvent engineering.
- The scientific advancements in energy transition, such as Google's geothermal experiments and the biodegradable bioplastic found in extreme deep-sea conditions, hold promise for the finance sector, potentially leading to significant investments in clean and sustainable energy solutions.
