Our Contribution
Researchers at APL have created nano-engineered controlled hierarchically engineered superlattice structures (CHESS) that pump heat using electrons—without moving parts or refrigerants—at twice the efficiency of commercial thermoelectric materials. Produced using metal-organic chemical vapor deposition, a commonly used commercial manufacturing method, CHESS thermoelectric materials pave the way for compact, scalable, compressor-free cooling. In addition to refrigeration, this advancement will also drive further innovations in electronics and photonics thermal management for satellite and avionic systems, next-generation tactile systems, prosthetics, human–machine interfaces, and energy harvesting for wearables.
