journal article·2025-11Open access

Converting heat to electricity with non-linear pyroelectrics: A review

Ashwath Aravindhan, Veronika Kovacova, Emmanuel Defay

International Materials Reviews· Volume 70· Issue 7

Abstract

Thermal energy conversion using non-linear pyroelectric materials present a sustainable solution for transforming waste heat into useful energy. By utilizing the temperature and electric field dependence of these materials, heat can be directly converted into electrical energy. This review explores non-linear pyroelectric energy conversion, highlighting the use of ferroelectric materials and their non-linear behaviour in thermal energy harvesting. In this work, we critically examine the materials, thermodynamic cycles for pyroelectric energy conversion, figures-of-merit for pyroelectric energy harvesting, and the influence of material geometry, aging and conversion losses. The primary objective of this review is to emphasize the importance of power generation through pyroelectric modules and re-examine the scope of macroscopic pyroelectric energy harvesters for practical applications. Concepts related to macroscopic devices such as regeneration and heat exchange conditions using thermal control elements for thermal energy harvesting are also discussed. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the advancements, challenges, and future directions in the field of non-linear pyroelectric energy harvesting.
Source: crossref · Quality: baseline

Research context

OpenAlex topics: Ferroelectric and Piezoelectric Materials · Multiferroics and related materials · Innovative Energy Harvesting Technologies

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

Affiliations

Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology

University of Luxembourg

Funding

European Research Council · Fonds National de la Recherche Luxembourg

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