Self-Powered Device Using Aligned Carbon Nanotube Arrays in Multi-Physics Fields

Abstract

A novel self-powered device based on the aligned carbon nanotube arrays (CNTA) in multi-physics fields has been put forward in this paper. Synthetically utilizing the photic, fluidic and thermic properties of carbon nanotubes, the multi-physical nanogenerators (MPNG) can generate electric currents when the solar irradiation and air flow synchronously effect on the material surface. Various MPNGs are connected in series to construct a unique truncated conus and cylinder shell structure in order to enhance the output voltage for self-powered electronic devices. The multi-physical power mechanism is formed by converting the solar and air flow energy to the thermoelectric effect. By the finite element analysis, the MPNG model including a pair of p-type and n-type CNTA elements is established, and its temperature and potential distribution are simulated. This self-powered device in multi-physics fields can be applied to a more complicated environment and has a fine prospect.

Thermoelectric generator device based on carbon nanotube membrane

“…5, the CNT membrane is synthesized through CVD method [17][18]. The experimental setup is a three-section quartz tube mounted in a two-stage furnace system.…”