Thermoelectric Transport in 3D Printed Polymers

In this presentation, we will delve into the thermoelectric performance of innovative nanomaterial-thermoplastic polymer composites crafted through fused deposition modeling. Our focus will be on examining the temperature-dependent electrical conductivity and Seebeck coefficient of both poly (lactic acid) (PLA) and graphene-PLA composites. We will discuss how factors such as the choice of nanofillers, the geometric design, and the macroscopic printing patterns influence the charge transport behavior, heat transfer, and overall thermoelectric efficiency of these materials. To provide insights into the observed experimental results, we will also employ finite element simulations of 3D printed composites based on semi-classical transport theory. Finally, we will present the possibility of using PLA and gPLA composites in battery-thermal management systems.