Quantum Dots: Harnessing Heat with Tiny Wonders
Quantum Dots: Tiny Wonders Heating Up the World of Thermoelectrics Imagine harnessing waste heat from your phone, car engine, or even the sun to power devices. This seemingly futuristic concept is closer to reality thanks to quantum dots – incredibly tiny semiconductor particles with a unique set of properties that could revolutionize thermoelectric technology. What are Quantum Dots? Quantum dots are nanocrystals, typically made of cadmium selenide or lead sulfide, with diameters ranging from 2 to 10 nanometers. Their size dictates their optical and electronic properties. Think of them as miniature light bulbs – smaller dots emit brighter, more specific colors. This tunability makes them perfect for applications like displays and solar cells. Thermoelectricity: Turning Heat into Electricity Thermoelectric materials...