This book explains the basic principles covering the development of thermoelectric materials and the role which semiconductor nanoparticles have played in the quest to advance the thermoelectric properties of multiple material types. It looks into the most popular techniques and uses of nanoparticles as well as the strengths and weaknesses of each. The book also gives an overview of the current trends in research with multiple examples of different materials which have generated interest in the field of thermoelectrics as well as a look to what the future holds. It will serve as a concise introduction to those starting to look into the fields of thermoelectrics and nanoparticles for energy generation and is a useful summary of current knowledge for those who need a handy reference.

Professor Shinya Maenosono leads his research group at Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (JAIST). His research at JAIST has covered the synthesis, characterization, and evaluation of size, shape, and phased controlled nanoparticles for a variety of applications ranging from semiconductors to biological and immunological. Particularly in the field of thermoelectrics, he has led studies into the development of thermoelectric materials using nanoparticles as building blocks, including doping and the development of further nanostructures for the optimization of the thermoelectric properties.