JP2022523273A - Nanoscale energy converter - Google Patents

Abstract

Embodiments relate to nanoscale energy converters and generator devices, as well as related methods. The device includes two electrodes with a cavity formed between them. The first electrode is an emitter electrode containing a first base material having a first work function value. The second material is deposited on the first base material, changing the first work function value to the second work function value. The second electrode is a collector electrode containing a second base material having a third work function value. The fourth material is deposited on the second base material, changing the third work function value to the fourth work function value. [Selection diagram] Fig. 1

Description

[0001] The present embodiment relates to the generation, conversion, and transfer of electric power, and more specifically, the embodiments disclosed herein transfer electric power through thermoelectric energy conversion and thermoelectric energy conversion. It relates to the nanoscale energy converters to produce and the methods of manufacturing and using them.

[0002] Portable power generators are often used to supply power to devices that are difficult to supply power from the power grid (eg, mobile phones and tablets in shopping centers, satellites in orbit around the earth, etc.). Such devices are also used when access to the grid is not possible (eg, remote facilities where the grid is intermittent or unavailable). In addition, such devices are used as a backup power source to keep critical equipment operating in the event of a grid event (such as a power outage or voltage drop).

General portable power generators include gasoline engines and diesel engines. However, these devices need to be frequently monitored during operation to ensure that the refueling required to keep them in operation is being performed. Photoelectric devices such as solar cells are only effective if sufficient light is available. Commercially available power storage devices include, for example, electrochemical batteries and all-solid-state batteries. However, the amount of charge for electrochemical batteries and all-solid-state batteries is limited and requires frequent replacement and / or recharging. In addition, electrochemical and all-solid-state batteries require a relatively large footprint when used as an emergency and backup power source for industrial facilities. Similarly, microelectronic devices are not always compatible with the use of electrochemical and all-solid-state batteries. An example of a microelectronic device that may require a compact, long-life, low-current power device is a low-power electronic sensor that is installed unattended for long periods of time in an inaccessible location. Another example of a microelectronic device that is compact, has a long life, and requires low power consumption is a non-volatile memory circuit of a small computing device.

Other portable power generators include fuel cells and atomic batteries. Fuel cells require hydrogen replacement over a period of time and, like electrochemical cells and all-solid-state batteries, require a relatively large footprint when used as an emergency and backup power source in industrial facilities. Atomic batteries utilize processes such as nuclear fission, fusion, and radioactivity. These processes are relatively inefficient and require a shield to reduce the emission of ionizing radiation, a natural by-product of the nuclear process.

Devices and methods for generating electric power are provided.

In one aspect, the device comprises first and second electrodes. The first electrode comprises a first substrate comprising at least one first material having a first work function value, the first material comprising tungsten (W). Further, the first electrode contains at least one second material different from the first material, and the second material has a second work function in which the first electrode is smaller than the first work function value. It is deposited on at least a portion of the first material to have a value. The second material contains cesium monoxide (Cs ₂ O). The second electrode is separated from the first electrode. The second electrode comprises a second substrate having at least one third material, the third material being different from the first and second materials. The third material contains gold (Au) and has a third work function value. Also, the second electrode contains at least one fourth material that is different from the first and third materials. The fourth material contains cesium monoxide (Cs ₂ O) and is above at least part of the third material such that the second electrode has a fourth work function value that is less than the third work function value. Is deposited on.

In another aspect, the method of manufacturing the apparatus comprises the steps of manufacturing a first electrode and a second electrode. For the first electrode, a first electrode substrate comprising at least the first material is provided, the first material having a first work function value and the first material comprising tungsten (W). At least one second material different from the first material is deposited on at least a portion of the first material, and the deposition of at least one second material is a second work on the first electrode. The second work function value yields a function value, the second work function value is smaller than the first work function value, and the second material contains cesium oxide (Cs ₂ O). A second electrode substrate containing at least one third material different from the first and second materials is provided, where the third material has a third work function value and is a third material. Includes gold (Au). At least one fourth material, which is different from the first and third materials, is deposited on at least a portion of the at least one third material, and the deposit of at least one fourth material is a second. It gives the electrode a fourth work function value. The fourth work function value is smaller than the third work function value, and the fourth material contains Cs ₂ O.

The above and other features and advantages, together with the accompanying drawings, will be apparent from the following detailed description of the current exemplary embodiments.

The drawings referenced herein form part of this specification and are incorporated herein. Unless otherwise specified, the illustrated features exemplify only some embodiments and not all embodiments.
FIG. 1 shows a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a nanoscale energy conversion device. [0011] FIGS. 2A and 2B show a flowchart showing a manufacturing process of a nanoscale energy conversion device. FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a partially constructed nanoscale energy conversion device. FIG. 4 shows a table of work function values of elemental bulk materials. FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a process of depositing a thermionic radiation material on an electrode substrate. FIG. 6 shows a graph of work function values as a function of particle size. FIG. 7 shows a bird's-eye view of the covalently bonded dipole deposited on the electrode surface by the electrospray deposition of the thermionic radiation material on the electrode substrate. FIG. 8 shows a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a nanofluid containing a plurality of nanoparticle clusters suspended in a dielectric medium. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a power generation process using a nanoscale energy conversion device. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the work function relationship between the electrode and the nanofluid in the electrode in one embodiment of the nanoscale energy conversion device. FIG. 11 is a graph showing the effect when the work function value of the emitter is larger than the work function value of the collector. FIG. 12 shows a schematic diagram of electron transfer due to collision of nanoparticle clusters. FIG. 13 shows a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the use of a nanoscale energy converter. FIG. 14 shows a schematic diagram of a system of stacked or grouped nanoscale energy converters for generating electric power from waste heat. FIG. 15 shows a cross-sectional view of a waste heat collection system including a nanoscale energy conversion device coupled to an electronic chip that collects electrical energy from waste heat from the electronic chip. FIG. 16 shows an exploded view of a power generation system including an array of nanoscale energy converters coupled to an array of solar cells that collects electrical energy from waste heat from the solar cell array.

As is commonly described and illustrated herein, it will be readily appreciated that the components of this embodiment may be arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations. Accordingly, the following detailed description of embodiments of the apparatus, system, and method of the present embodiment, as shown in the drawings, is not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments in the claims, but merely selected embodiments. It is representative of the form.

References to "selected embodiments," "one embodiment," or "one embodiment" throughout the specification are specific features, structures, or characteristics described in connection with embodiments. Means included in at least one embodiment. Therefore, the expressions "selected embodiment," "in one embodiment," or "in one embodiment" at various locations throughout the specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Various embodiments can be combined with each other.

The illustrated embodiments are best understood by reference to the drawings, and the same parts are represented by the same numbers throughout. The following description is intended for illustration purposes only and merely illustrates certain selected embodiments of appliances, systems, and processes that are consistent with the embodiments in the claims.

Thermoionic power conversion provides a method of converting heat into electrical energy. Thermionic power conversion generators convert thermal energy into electrical energy by emitting electrons from a heated emitter electrode (ie, cathode). Electrons flow from the emitter electrode over the gap between the electrodes, through an external load to the collector electrode (ie, the anode), and return to the emitter electrode to convert heat into electrical energy. Recent improvements in thermionic power transducers include the selection of materials with low work functions of the electrodes and the use of fluids to fill the gaps between the electrodes. The electron transfer density is limited by the material of the electrodes and the material of the fluid in the gap between the electrodes (ie, the associated work function).

Configuration of Nanoscale Energy Converters [0031] To provide additional details for a better understanding of the selected embodiments of the present disclosure, reference to FIG. 1 is configured to generate electric power. A cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the nanoscale energy conversion apparatus (100) is shown. The nanoscale energy converter (100) is sometimes referred to as a cell or layer. Multiple devices (100) can be organized as series or parallel cells or layers, or a combination of both, to generate power at the desired voltage, current, and output. The nanoscale energy converter (100) includes an emitter electrode (cathode) (102) and a collector electrode (anode) (104). The emitter electrode (102) and collector electrode (104) are collectively referred to as an electrode (106) of the nanoscale energy converter (100). Multiple insulator posts (also referred to herein as columns, standoffs, or micropillars) (108) (only one shown) maintain separation between the electrodes (106) and the electrodes (106) and insulators. The post (108) defines the cavity (110). In one embodiment, the insulator post (108) is an alkanthiol, airgel-like sol-gel, corona-doped, super-corona-doped, silicon, silicon oxide, polymer, any dielectric material, or one of the aforementioned. Manufactured from dielectric materials such as combinations including, but not limited to. In one embodiment, one or more insulator walls (not shown) are formed that divide the cavity (110). In one embodiment, the cavity (110) extends between the electrodes (106) at a distance ranging from 1 nanometer (nm) to less than about 10 nm. The interstitial nanofluid (112) is retained in the cavity (110). Thus, the nanoscale energy converter (100) has two opposing electrodes separated by an insulator post (108) having a cavity (110) filled with nanofluid (112) between the electrodes (106). (106) is included.

The emitter electrode (102) and collector electrode (104) are made of different materials, and these different materials have different work function values. As used herein, the work function of a material (or combination of materials) is the thermodynamic work required to extract electrons from a solid to a point in vacuum just outside the solid surface of that material. Is the minimum value (ie, minimum energy) of. The work function is a material-dependent property. The work function value is usually expressed in units of electron volt (eV). Therefore, the work function of the material determines the minimum energy required for an electron to escape from the surface, the lower the work function, the easier it is to emit the electron.

The emitter electrode (102) has a higher work function value than the collector electrode (104). Overcome to transmit electrons from the emitter electrode (102) to the collector electrode (104) via the nanofluid (112) in the cavity (110) due to the difference in work function values between the electrodes (106) due to different electrode materials. There is a contact potential difference between the electrodes (106) that must be done. Both electrodes (106) emit electrons, but as described in more detail elsewhere herein, when the contact potential difference is overcome, the emitter electrode (102) is more than the collector electrode (104). Also emits significantly more electrons. The net flow of electrons is transferred from the emitter electrode (102) to the collector electrode (104), and the net current flows from the emitter electrode (102) to the collector electrode (104). This net current causes the emitter electrode (102) to be positively charged and the collector electrode (104) to be negatively charged. Therefore, the nanoscale energy converter (100) generates an electron current transmitted from the emitter electrode (102) to the collector electrode (104).

[0034] The nanofluid (112) includes a dielectric medium (114) and a plurality of nanoparticle clusters (116) suspended in the dielectric medium (114). The nanofluid (112) eliminates the formation of space charges in the cavity (110) so as to minimize ohm heating and prevent arc discharge in the medium (114). In some embodiments, the dielectric medium (114) is one of water, silicone oil, or alcohol, without limitation. Also, in at least one embodiment, the dielectric medium (114) has airgel-like properties and a low thermal conductivity value that reduces heat transfer through it, eg, 1.0 watt / metric kelvin (W / (W / ( A solgel having a thermal conductivity value of less than m · K)). In at least one embodiment, the thermal conductivity of the dielectric medium (114) is 0.013 watts / (m · K) compared to the thermal conductivity of water at 20 degrees Celsius (° C.) of 0.6 W / (m · K). It is as low as metric degree Kelvin (W / (m ・ K)). Therefore, the nanofluid (112) has a low thermal conductivity value, minimizing heat transfer through the cavity (110). The heat transport of the thermally conductive nanofluid (112) is proportional to the temperature difference between the electrodes (102) and (104). For example, if the heat transport in a nanofluid with low thermal conductivity is small, a high temperature difference between the two electrodes (102, 104) can be maintained during operation. As described elsewhere in this book, the electrical conductivity of the nanofluid (112) varies with the operation of the corresponding device.

Nanoparticle clusters (116) can be made from metals and metal alloys, ceramics, cermets, composites, and other materials. Some nanoparticle clusters (116) may contain different materials than other nanoparticle clusters (116). In one embodiment, the nanofluid (112) comprises, but is not limited to, a nanoparticle cluster (116) of gold (Au) (118) and silver (Ag) (120). As used herein, "nanoparticle cluster" refers to a group of 6-8 atoms of a related material, eg Au and Ag, with an unrestricted number of atoms. The nanoparticle cluster (116) has a work function value larger than that of the electrode (106). Specifically, the work function values of the Au nanoparticle cluster (118) and the Ag nanoparticle cluster (120) are 4.1 eV and 3.8 eV, respectively. As described in more detail elsewhere herein, charge transport via electron hopping and Brownian motion has a large work function value (116) for nanoparticle clusters and a different work function value2. It is facilitated by using the above types of nanoparticle clusters (116). The Brownian motion of the nanoparticle cluster (116) includes collisions between the nanoparticle clusters (116) and collisions between the nanoparticle cluster (116) and the two electrodes (102), (104).

[0036] The nanoparticle cluster (116) is coated with alkanethiol to form a dielectric barrier on it, where the choice of alkanethiol is non-limiting. In at least one embodiment dodecanethiol is used. In at least one other embodiment, dodecanethiol or at least one other alkane shorter than decanethiol is used. The length of the alkane chain is limited by the need for the conductive core of the nanoparticles to be within 1 nm in order to transfer electrons from one conductive surface to another. The alkanethiol coating reduces the coalescence of nanoparticle clusters (116). In one embodiment, the nanoparticle cluster (116) has a diameter of 0.5 nm to 5 nm. In at least one embodiment, the nanoparticle cluster (116) has a diameter of 1-3 nm. In one embodiment, the nanoparticle cluster (116) has a diameter of 2 nm. The nanoparticle clusters (116) of Au (118) and Ag (120) are tuned to be conductive with a charge storage function. Thus, the nanofluid (112) in which the nanoparticle clusters (116) are suspended is conductive for electrons to move across the cavity (110) from the emitter electrode (102) to the collector electrode (104) via charge transfer. Provides a sexual pathway.

[0037] A plurality of emitter electrons (122) and a plurality of collector electrons (124) are shown in close proximity to a cavity (110) in the respective emitter electrode (102) and collector electrode (104). The electrons (126) are shown to exit the emitter electrode (102), hop across the nanoparticle cluster (116), and enter the collector electrode (104). FIG. 1 shows an external circuit (128) connected to two electrodes (106). Specifically, the first conductor (130) is connected to the collector electrode (104) and the external circuit (128), and the second conductor (132) is connected to the external circuit (128) and the emitter electrode (102). Be connected. When the nanoscale energy converter (100) is in operation, the external circuit current (134) is transmitted via the external circuit (128) and the same amount of electron current as it flows through the external circuit (134) is transmitted through the emitter electrode (134). It flows from 102) to the collector electrode (104). For example, a single cell or layer as in the configuration shown and described in FIG. 1 is guided between the emitter electrode (102) and the collector electrode (104) as a function of the material used for each. Depending on the contact potential difference (discussed further herein), voltages in the range of about 0.25 Volts to 6.0 Volts can be generated. In some embodiments, the device (100) nominally produces a voltage of about 0.75 to 5.0 volts. In one embodiment, the device produces about 0.75 volts. Also, for a single cell or layer, for example as in the configuration shown and described in FIG. 1, the device (100) can generate currents in the range of about 1mA (ma) to about 10ma. can. Further, in some embodiments, the apparatus (100) produces about 0.75 milliwatts / square centimeter (mW / cm ² ). Therefore, the nanoscale energy converter (100) produces enough current to power a small load, eg, a microcircuit.

In one embodiment, the emitter electrode (102) is coated with tungsten (W) nanoparticles (136) and a cesium monoxide ( _Cs2O ) coating that at least partially covers the surface of the W nanoparticles (136). Manufactured with 138). The collector electrode (104) is manufactured with a gold (Au) nanoparticle surface (140) and a _Cs2O coating (142) that at least partially covers the Au nanoparticle surface (140). As further described herein, during the manufacture of the electrode (106), the W nanoparticles are electrosprayed onto a nanometal film, i.e., a polymer-based single side containing an atomic-scale lattice of nanometal atoms. W nanoparticles form a surface layer on the nanometal film. _The Cs2O coating (138) on the W nanoparticle surface (136) is laminated onto the surface (136) via a template. The polymer base is a sacrificial component for the assembly that is removed with acetone (as further described herein). Similarly, in one embodiment, Au nanoparticles are electrosprayed onto a nanometal film on a polymer base to form the Au nanoparticles surface (140), and the _Cs2O coating (142) is via a template. It is laminated on the Au nanoparticles surface (140) and the polymer base is removed. Using templates with specific electrospray and nanofabrication techniques, Cs ₂ O (138) and (142) in one or more predetermined patterns on the W nanoparticle surface (136) and Au nanoparticle surface (140). ) Is formed. The coverage of each of the two surfaces (136) and (140) with the respective Cs ₂ O coating layers (138) and (142) is at least 50% to 70%, and in at least one embodiment about 60%. Is. _The Cs2O coatings (138) and (142) set the work function values of the electrodes (102) and (104) to W (typically 4.55 eV) and Au (typically 5.1 eV), respectively. Decrease from the work function value. Specifically, the emitter electrode (102) has a work function value of 0.88 electron volt (eV), and the collector electrode (104) has a work function value of 0.65 eV. Therefore, the low work function values of the electrodes (102) and (104) are essential for the operation of the nanoscale energy converter (100) as described herein.

[0039] In an exemplary embodiment, W and Au are work functions when at least some of their metallic properties (eg, strength and corrosion resistance) and the thermionic emission material of _Cs2O are laminated on top. Depending on the measured change in, it is selected as the electrode (106). Alternative materials include precious metals such as renium (Re), osmium (Os), ruthenium (Ru), tantalum (Ta), iridium (Ir), rhodium (Rh), palladium (Pd), and platinum (Pt), or these. Any combination of metals can be used, but is not limited to these. Further, but not limited to, non-precious metals such as aluminum (Al) and molybdenum (Mo) can also be used. For example, but not limited to, Al nanoparticles instead of W nanoparticles can be used to form the surface (136) and Pt nanoparticles instead of Au nanoparticles to form the surface (140). be able to. Therefore, the choice of materials used to form the nanoparticles surfaces (136) and (140) is primarily the work function of the electrode (106), more specifically the work of the electrode (106) when completed. Based on different functions.

The nanoscale energy converter (100) collects thermal energy (144) to generate electric power. As further detailed herein, the emitter electrode (102) receives thermal energy (144) from a source including, but not limited to, a heat source and an ambient environment, and is hollow through the nanoparticle cluster (116). Generates an electron (126) traversing (110). The electron (126) reaches the collector electrode (104) and the external circuit current (134) is transmitted to the external circuit (128). In some embodiments, the nanoscale energy converter (100) produces electric power by placing it in an ambient room temperature environment. Therefore, the nanoscale energy converter (100) collects thermal energy (144), including waste heat, to generate useful power.

Assembling the Nanoscale Energy Converter [0042] With reference to FIGS. 2A and 2B, a flowchart (200) showing the manufacturing process of the nanoscale energy converter is provided. Referring to FIG. 3, a diagram (300) showing a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a partially constructed nanoscale energy converter (300) is provided (not on scale).

Fabrication of Emitter Electrode (Cathode) As shown and described in FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 3, the emitter electrode (302) is a base (indicated by a dotted line) such as a polymer base (330). Manufactured by placing (204) a nanometal film (328) on one side (202). The thickness of the polymer base (330) is about 2 nm (this value should be understood as non-limiting) and the thickness of the nanometal film (328) is about 3.7 angstroms. The polymer base (330) is used as a sacrificial assembly. The nanometal film (328) is located near the electrospray nozzle of the electrospray device (see FIG. 5, electrospray nozzle (512)). Emitter electrode nanoparticles (not shown) are selected for deposition (208) on the nanometal film (328) (206). In an exemplary embodiment of the selection of nanoparticle material for the emitter electrode (302) (206), the combination of the nanoparticle material and the deposited thermionic emission material is further described elsewhere herein. It has a work function value of a combination larger than the work function value of the collector electrode (306) made to be. In an exemplary embodiment, the difference in work function values between the two electrodes (302) and (306) (measured by eV) maximizes electron transfer between the two electrodes (302) and (306). Therefore, it is more than a predetermined value. A partial list of suitable nanoparticle materials for the emitter electrode (302) is provided elsewhere herein. In an exemplary embodiment, at least one layer of W nanoparticles (338) is deposited (208) on the nanometal film (328) by electrospray and the nanoparticles surface (328) on the nanometal film (328). 304) is formed. In at least one embodiment, the thickness of the layer of nanoparticles for forming the nanoparticles surface (304) is about 2 nm (ie, the approximate thickness of the nanoparticles), where the value of 2 nm is non-existent. It should be considered limited. Thus, one or more metal materials in the form of nanoparticles reduce the work function values of the electrodes (302) and (306) and the difference in work function values between the electrodes (302) and (306). As a function of keeping above a predetermined value, it is selected at least partially as the nanoparticle surface (304) of the emitter electrode (302).

When the W nanoparticle surface (304) is formed (208), the polymer base (330) is removed via an acetone solution (210), whereby the polymer base (330) is rendered as a sacrificial material. .. This allows the W nanoparticle surface (304) on the nanometal film (328) to be ready to receive thermionic emission material on it.

At least one layer of thermionic radiation material (308) is deposited on at least a portion of the W nanoparticle surface (304) (212). In one embodiment, a nanolayer of thermionic radiation material (308) is deposited on the surface of about 50% to about 70% of the W nanoparticle surface (304) (212). In another embodiment, about 60% of the surface of the W nanoparticle surface (304) receives a nanolayer of material (308). In yet another embodiment, multiple layers of thermionic radiation material (308) are deposited on about 60% of the W nanoparticle surface (304). The deposited thermionic radiation material (308) now reduces the work function value of the emitter electrode (302) to a value lower than the work function value of the material selected for the W nanoparticle surface (304). Be selected.

[0047] With reference to FIG. 4, a table (400) showing the work function values of the elements of the bulk material is provided. For example, the work function value of W is 4.55 eV. As further described herein, the deposition of Cs ₂ O (308) on the W nanoparticle surface (304) reduces the work function value of the emitter electrode (302) to about 0.88 eV. Therefore, the material combinations are arranged to create the desired work function values, and the work function values of the combinations can be changed by changing the material combinations.

The selection of the thermionic radiation material (308) to be deposited on the nanoparticle surface (304) is the desired work function value of the electrodes (302) (and the electrode (306)) and the nanoparticles surface (304) and deposits. Partially based on chemical compatibility with material (308). Deposit materials include, but are not limited to, thorium, aluminum, cerium, and scandium, as well as oxides of alkali metals or alkaline earth metals such as cesium, barium, calcium, and strontium.

[0049] Referring to FIG. 5, the process of depositing thermionic radiation material on the electrode substrate, ie, the surface of nanoparticles such as the surface of W nanoparticles (136/304) and the surface of Au nanoparticles (140/310) (500). A perspective view of is provided. In the first step (502), the template (504) is placed near the substrate (506). The template (504) has an opening pattern (508) corresponding to the desired deposition pattern on the substrate (506). The template (504) is placed on one side of the substrate (506), as indicated by the arrow (524). The substrate (506) is grounded to facilitate direct deposition of droplets on the substrate (506) in order to form a pattern of deposited material to be deposited.

In the second step (510), the substrate (506) with the overlaid template (504) is placed near the electrospray nozzle (512) of the electrospray device (not shown). The emission of thermionic emission material as monodisperse droplets (514) from the electrospray nozzle (512) is characterized by nanoparticles of uniform size in the dispersed phase. The droplet electrospray (514) (hereinafter referred to as electrospray) produces monodisperse particles to support the deposition of thermionic radiation material in the nanometer scale range. In one embodiment, the electrospray (514) comprises a solution of 0.1 mol (M) Cs ₂ O nanoparticles in ethanol, wherein the droplet diameter is 10 microns. Also, in one embodiment, the pattern (508) has a center-to-center distance of about 60-200 microns and is staggered at an angle of about 30-60 degrees, preferably an angle of 45 degrees, with a diameter of 30-. It has a hole of 50 microns. The electrospray (514) containing _Cs2O nanoparticles is directed at the template (504), even though the template (504) and substrate (506) pass through the electrospray (514) as indicated by the arrow (526). Along with this, a nanolayer (516) is formed. In one embodiment, 1014 ^Cs2O atoms per _square centimeter (cm ² ) are the target concentration of substrate (506).

In the third step (518), the template (504) is separated from the substrate (506) as indicated by the arrow (528), and the patterned thermoelectron emitting material (520) is attached to the electrode substrate (520). 506) The emitter electrode (522) is formed by leaving it on the top. As shown, four separate lines of sedimentary material, collectively referred to as sedimentary material (520), overlap on the W substrate (506). This pattern is merely an exemplary pattern and should not be considered limiting. In one embodiment, the thermionic pattern may be varied as long as the pattern achieves the operation of the electrode (522). Thus, a single layer of patterned thermionic radiation material (520) or _Cs2O is formed on the W substrate (506) and achieves at least 50% to 70% or more of the coating of the substrate (506). 60% is the optimum coverage. In at least one embodiment, the layer thickness of the patterned thermionic radiation material (520) is about 2 nm, where a value of 2 nm should be considered non-limiting.

Three-dimensional and four-dimensional printing to form the layers, films, and coatings discussed herein (four-dimensional changes nanoscale composition during printing to adjust properties). Exemplary electrospray and nanofabrication technologies and related equipment, including, are described in US Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0251213.

[0053] With reference to FIG. 6, a diagram showing a graph display (600) of work function values as a function of particle size is provided. The graph (600) has a first axis (602) represented herein as a vertical axis indicating a change in work function value (ΔΦ), where the vertical axis is incremented by 0.2 in units of eV. Has a range of 0 to 1.2. Graph (600) also has a second axis (604) represented herein as a horizontal axis indicating particle size, where the second axis (604) is nanometers (nm) in increments of 10. ) It has a range from 0 to 60 in units. The graph (600) also includes a curve (606) showing the relationship between the particle size and the change in the work function value with respect to that size. As shown in graph (600), the choice of nanoparticle size affects its work function value. For example, as the nanoparticle cluster approaches a single atom, the value of the work function changes beyond 1 eV. Conversely, as the size of the nanoparticles increases, the work function value approaches the measured value of the bulk material. As described above, the use of the nanoscale energy conversion device (100) can be individually set by utilizing the characteristic that the work function value of the material increases as the particle size becomes smaller. Therefore, selecting specific nanoparticle sizes for the spray deposits (520) on the emitter and collector electrodes (102) / (302) and (104) / (306), respectively, results in a large difference in work function between the electrodes. , The number of electrons transferred during the operation of the nanoscale energy converter (100) can be increased.

Referring to FIG. 7, the nano of the electrode (302/306) via electrospray (514) deposition of thermionic radiation material on the electrode nanoparticle surface / substrate (136/304) / (506/704). A diagram showing a bird's-eye view (700) of a covalently coupled dipole (702) deposited on a particle surface (136/304/506/704) is provided. The nanoparticles of _Cs2O deposited on the surface of the electrode nanoparticles (704) form covalent bonds, thereby forming dipoles (702) on the surface (only one is shown in FIG. 7). Within the dipole (702), the charged nanodroplets in the electrospray (514) collide with the surface (704) to form a positive charge (706) and the opposite negative charge (708). The charges (706) and (708) induce an electric field (710) between the charges (706) and (708), so that the dipole (702) acts as a function of the induced electric field (710) to cause nearby electromagnetic waves. By inducing, it acts as a nanoantenna that changes the dipole moment in the vicinity of the dipole (702). Therefore, the covalently bonded dipoles (702) deposited on the electrode nanoparticles surface (704) create an electrode with a low work function when the coverage area is optimized.

In at least one embodiment, the electrodes (eg, W emitter electrode (302) and Au collector electrode (306)) are 20-50 mm (mm) long, 20-50 mm wide, and 4-100 nm thick. Has the dimensions of. The thickness of 100 nm is based on the penetration of charge from the emitter electrode (102/302) to the nanofluid (112) and from the collector electrode (104/306) to the second conductor (132). In general, it is preferable to reduce the associated thickness in order to maximize the penetration of charge through the associated electrodes (102/302) and (104/306). Therefore, in at least one embodiment, the electrodes (102/302) and (104/306) are about 4 nm thick.

Fabrication of Collector Electrode (Anode) [0057] With reference to FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 3 again, the collector electrode (306) is manufactured in much the same manner as the emitter electrode (302). (214). A nanometal film (332) is placed on one side of the polymer base (334) (indicated by the dotted line) (216). The polymer base (334) is about 2 nm thick (this value should be considered non-limiting) and the nanometal film (332) is about 3.7 angstroms thick. A nanometal film (332) is placed near the electrospray nozzle of the electrospray device (see FIG. 5, electrospray nozzle (512)). Collector electrode nanoparticles (not shown) are selected for deposition (220) on the nanometal film (332) (218). In an exemplary embodiment of the selection of nanoparticle material for the collector electrode (306) (218), the combination of the nanoparticle material and the deposited thermionic emission material is described elsewhere herein. It has a work function value of a combination smaller than the work function value of the emitter electrode (302). In an exemplary embodiment, the difference in work function values between the two electrodes (302) and (306) (measured by eV) maximizes electron transfer between the two electrodes (302) and (306). Therefore, it is more than a predetermined value. A partial list of nanoparticle materials suitable for the collector electrode (306) is provided elsewhere herein. In an exemplary embodiment, at least one layer of Au nanoparticles (336) is electrosprayed onto a nanometal film (332) to deposit (220) and on the nanometal film (332) a nanoparticle surface (310). ) Is formed. In at least one embodiment, the thickness of the layer of nanoparticles for forming the nanoparticles surface (332) is about 2 nm (ie, the approximate thickness of the nanoparticles), where the value of 2 nm is non-existent. It should be considered limited.

[0058] When the Au nanoparticle surface (310) is formed (220), the polymer base (334) is removed via an acetone solution (222), thereby sacrificing the polymer base (334). This allows the Au nanoparticle surface (310) on the nanometal film (332) to be ready to accept thermionic emission material on it.

At least one layer of thermionic radiation material (312) is deposited on at least a portion of the Au nanoparticle surface (310) (224). In one embodiment, a nanolayer of thermionic radiation material (312) is deposited on about 50% to about 70% of the surface of the Au nanoparticles surface (310). In another embodiment, about 60% of the surface of the Au nanoparticles surface (310) receives a nanolayer of material (312). In yet another embodiment, multiple layers of thermionic radiation material (312) are deposited on about 60% of the Au nanoparticles surface (310). The deposited thermionic radiation material (312) now reduces the work function value of the collector electrode (306) to a value lower than the work function value of the material selected for the Au nanoparticle surface (310). Be selected. Referring to FIG. 4, Table (400) shows that the work function value of Au is 5.1 eV. When Cs ₂ O (312) is deposited on the Au nanoparticles surface (310), the work function value of the collector-emitter electrode (306) is reduced to 0.65 eV. Therefore, as with the emitter electrodes (302), the work function values of the electrodes (302) and (306) are reduced and the difference in work function values between the electrodes (302) and (306) is maintained above a predetermined value. As a function, one or more metallic materials in the form of nanoparticles are selected, at least in part, as the nanoparticle surface (310) of the collector electrode (306).

Manufacture of Insulator Posts [0061] After the electrodes (302) and (306) have been made, the assembly of the nanoscale energy converters (100) / (300) (200) is continued. Specifically, one of the collector electrode (306) (shown in FIG. 3) or the emitter electrode (302) is placed on the surface (not shown) for support. A template (not shown in FIG. 2) is used between the electrodes (302) and (306) so that the electrodes (302) and (306) and the insulator post (314) define the cavity (316). To maintain separation, electrospray deposition multiple insulator posts (or columns, standoffs, or micropillars) (314) are made (226). In at least one embodiment, the template is a graphite template. In one embodiment, the insulator post (314) comprises alkanethiol, sol-gel with aerogel-like properties, corona dope, super corona dope, silicon, silicon oxide, polymer, any dielectric material, or at least one of the aforementioned. Manufactured with dielectric materials such as inclusive combinations, but not limited to these. The template is configured to allow electrospraying of alkanethiols so that overspraying on thermionic radiation materials (308) and (312) is minimized. In one embodiment, one or more insulator walls are formed that divide the cavity (316) into a plurality of cavities (316).

The height (318) of the insulator post (314) can be, for example, in the range of 1 nanometer (nm) to less than 10 nm. Thus, the cavity (316) extends between the electrodes (302) and (306) over a distance ranging from 1 nanometer (nm) to less than 10 nm. The width (320) of the insulator post (314) can be, for example, in the range of 1 nanometer (nm) to 10 nm. The width (322) of the cavity (322) can be, for example, in the range of 1 nanometer (nm) to 10 nm. The insulator post (314) is shown as a cube or a cube-like structure and is substantially similar in shape and size to the cavity (322), but this configuration is not limiting. The distance between the insulator posts (314) is within the range defined by about 5-6 nm to about 1 cm. The dimensions and composition of the insulator posts (314) and cavities (316) are determined based on the intended use of the nanoscale energy converter (100) / (300). Therefore, the insulator post (314) (or wall) is to maintain a predetermined distance between the two electrodes (302) and (306) in the nanoscale energy converter (100) / (300). It is made to one of the two electrodes (302) and (306) at a predetermined height.

Coupling of Electrodes and Insulator Posts [0064] Electrodes (302) and (306) and insulator posts (314) are coupled together (228). As mentioned above, and as shown in FIG. 3, the insulator post (314) is deposited on the collector electrode (306). As shown in FIG. 3, the electrode in which the insulator post (314) is not formed, the emitter electrode (302) is lowered so as to be placed on the insulator post (314) as shown by the arrow (326). To. The adhesive (324) is spot-deposited on the outer ends of the nanoscale energy converters (100) / (300) to bond the electrodes (302) and (306) to the insulator post (314) as a unit. .. In one embodiment, the apparatus (100) / (300) is sealed or sealed with either a silicon or silicon dioxide casing segment, a sealant such as a hot melt adhesive, or (at another location in this document). This aspect of the assembly by electrospraying an alkanthiol film gasket around all sides of the device except partially unsealed to facilitate the addition of nanofluids (as detailed). Is completed. The arrangement of the electrodes (302) and (306) and the insulator post (314) defines a cavity (316) between them (230).

Fabrication of Nanofluids and Addition of Nanofluids to Cavities With reference to FIGS. 2A and 2B, nanofluids (112) are prepared (232). Referring to FIG. 8, a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a nanofluid (800) comprising a plurality of Au and Ag nanoparticle clusters (802) and (804) suspended in a dielectric medium (806), respectively, is provided. .. In some embodiments, the dielectric medium (806) is either water, silicone oil, or alcohol, without limitation. Also, in at least one embodiment, the dielectric medium (806) is an airgel, which has airgel-like properties and a low thermal conductivity value, eg, thermal conductivity of water at 20 degrees Celsius (° C.). Compared to 0.6 W / m-K, the thermal conductivity value per metric Kelvin (W / m-K) is as low as 0.013 watts, reducing heat transfer through it. Appropriate materials are selected prior to making the nanoparticle clusters (802) and (804). The nanoparticle clusters (802) and (804) have a work function value greater than the work function value of the electrode (234). Specifically, the work function values of the Au nanoparticle cluster (802) and the Ag nanoparticle cluster (804) are 4.1 eV and 3.8 eV, respectively.

[0067] One or more layers of dielectric coating, such as a single layer (808) of alkanethiol material, are deposited on nanoparticles (236), for example by electrospray, on which a dielectric barrier is formed. The alkanethiol material of step (236) includes, but is not limited to, dodecanethiol and decanethiol. The deposition of a dielectric coating such as alkanethiol reduces the coalescence of nanoparticle clusters (802) and (804). In at least one embodiment, the nanoparticle clusters (802) and (804) have a diameter of 1 nm to 3 nm. In one embodiment, the nanoparticle clusters (802) and (804) have a diameter of 2 nm. The Au (802) and Ag (804) nanoparticle clusters are conductive with charge storage function (ie, capacitive function) and have low thermal conductivity values through cavities (110) and (316). It is tuned to minimize heat transfer, minimize ohmic heating, remove space charge in cavities (110) and (316), and prevent arc discharge. The plurality of Au and Ag nanoparticle clusters (802) and (804) are each suspended (238) in a dielectric medium (806). Thus, in a nanofluid (800) containing suspended nanoparticle clusters (802) and (804), electrons pass through charge transfer from the emitter electrodes (102) and (302) to the cavities (110) and (316). Provides a conductive path to travel across the collector electrodes (104) and (306).

[0068] Au nanoparticles clusters (802) are dodecanethiol-functionalized gold nanoparticles, having a particle size of 1-3 nm, about 2% (weight / volume percent), and suspended in toluene. Ag nanoparticles clusters (804) are dodecanethiol-functionalized silver nanoparticles with a particle size of 1-3 nm, about 0.25% (weight / volume percent), and suspended in hexanes. In one embodiment, the particle size of both Au and Ag nanoparticle clusters (802) and (804) is about 2 nm. The Au and Ag cores of the nanoparticle clusters (802) and (804) are selected for their ability to store and move electrons. In one embodiment, a 50% -50% mixture of Au and Ag nanoparticle clusters (802) and (804) is used. However, mixtures with Au vs. Ag in the range of 1-99% can be used. Electron transfer is likely to occur between nanoparticle clusters (802) and (804) with different work functions. In one embodiment, a mixture of two different nanoparticle clusters (802) and (804) in approximately equal numbers provides good electron transfer. Therefore, nanoparticle clusters are selected based on particle size, particle material (having relevant work function values), mixing ratio, and electron affinity.

[0069] In some cases, the conductivity of the nanofluid (800) can be increased by increasing the concentration of nanoparticle clusters (802) and (804). However, the optimum concentration for the conductivity of the nanofluid can be found at low concentrations of nanoparticles, such as less than 0.5 mol / liter, 0.4-0.5 mol / liter, or even lower concentrations. The nanoparticle clusters (802) and (804) can have a concentration of about 0.1 mol / liter to about 2 mol / liter in the nanofluid (800). In at least one embodiment, Au and Ag nanoparticle clusters (802) and (804) each have a concentration of at least 1 mol / liter.

The stability and reactivity of colloidal particles such as Au and Ag nanoparticle clusters (802) and (804) are predominantly adsorbed or covalently bonded to the surfaces of the nanoparticle clusters (802) and (804). Determined by the ligand shell formed by the thiol coating (808). The nanoparticle clusters (802) and (804) tend to aggregate and precipitate, but due to the presence of the ligand shell of the non-aggregating polymer alkanethiol coating (808), these nanoparticle clusters (802) and (804) Will remain floating, which can be prevented. The adsorbed or covalently bound ligand acts as a stabilizer against aggregation and can be used to impart chemical function to the nanoparticle clusters (802) and (804). Over time, the surfactant properties of the ligand coating are overcome and a low energy state of aggregated nanoparticle clusters is formed. Therefore, over time, aggregation due to the low energy state of the nanoparticle cluster accumulation may occur and occasional addition of surfactant may be used.

The nanofluid (802) is transformed into cavities (110) and (316), for example, by capillaries and vacuum processes through the remaining unsealed side of the nanoscale energy converter (100) / (300). Filled (240). The remaining unsealed side of the nanoscale energy converter (100) / (300) is around a silicon or silicon dioxide gasket segment, a sealant such as a hot melt adhesive, or the remaining unsealed side of the device. The assembly is completed when the Alcanthiol film gasket is sealed (242) by electric spraying. Thus, in at least one embodiment, a plurality of Au and Ag nanoparticle clusters (802) and (804) are mixed together in a dielectric medium (806) to form a nanofluid (112) / (800). When the nanofluid (112) / (800) is inserted into the cavity (110) / (316), the nanoscale energy converter (100) / (300) is completely sealed.

[0072] In one embodiment, the dimensions of the nanoscale energy converter (100) / (300) are about 20-50 mm in length, about 20-50 mm in width, and about 9-19 nm in thickness (each electrode (102/302). And 104/306) are about 4 nm and the cavities (110/316) between them are from about 1 nm to less than about 10 nm). The thickness of the device (100/300) is determined based on the desired electron flow inside, and the other two dimensions are expandable based on the desired overall output of the device (100/300).

Operating Principle of Nanoscale Energy Converter [0074] With reference to FIG. 9 again, a flowchart showing a process (900) of generating power using the nanoscale energy converter (100) is provided. As described herein, an emitter electrode (102) is provided (902), a collector electrode (104) is provided (904), where the work function value of the collector electrode (104) is the emitter electrode (102). It is smaller than the work function value of 102). The emitter electrode (102) and collector electrode (104) are arranged at a predetermined distance from each other, that is, from about 1 nm to less than about 10 nm (906).

[0075] With reference to FIG. 10, the relationship between the work functions of the emitter electrodes (1002) (WF _e ), collector electrodes (1004) (WF _c ), and the nanofluids (1006) (WF _nf ) therein is shown. , A cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the nanoscale energy converter (1000) is provided. FIG. 10 also shows a pair of insulator posts (1008) that separate the electrodes (1002) and (1004). The difference between WF _e and WF _c establishes the contact potential difference (CPD) between the two electrodes (1002) and (1004) (908). Specifically, since the dissimilar metals of the electrodes (1002) and (1004), such as W and Au, each have at least a single layer of Cs ₂ O on 60% of their opposing surfaces, the nanofluid (1006). ) Is induced across the voltage difference ( _VCPD ). In this embodiment, the value of WF _e is 0.88 eV and the value of WF _c is 0.65 eV to induce V _CPD of 0.23 eV. V _CPD induces an electric field ( _ECPD ) that must be overcome in order to transfer electrons from the emitter electrode (1002) to the collector electrode (1004) via the nanofluid (1006). Therefore, as further described herein, this induced CPD results in thermionic emission of electrons from the emitter electrode (1002) to the collector electrode (1004).

[0076] A nanofluid (1006) comprising a plurality of Au nanoparticle clusters (1010) and Ag nanoparticle clusters (1012) is provided (910). In this embodiment, the work functions of the Au nanoparticle cluster (1010) and the Ag nanoparticle cluster (1012) are 4.1 eV and 3.8 eV, respectively. Therefore, the collective work function WF _nf is larger than WF _e , which is larger than WF _c . This relationship between Au and the work function values of Ag nanoparticle clusters (1010) and (1012) to the nanoparticle clusters (1010) and (1012) via Brownian motion and electron hopping (discussed further herein). Optimize the movement of electrons. Therefore, the selection of the material in the nanoscale energy converter (1000) causes the emission of electrons from the emitter electrode (1002) and the conduction of electrons emitted across the nanofluid (1006) to the collector electrode (1004). The enhancement optimizes the generation of current and the transmission within it.

[0077] With reference to FIG. 11, a diagram showing a graph display (1100) of the effect when the work function value of the emitter is larger than the work function value of the collector is provided. The emitter electrode (1102) and collector electrode (1104) are separated by a cavity (1106) filled with nanofluid (1108). As a function of the distance of the electrode (1102) from the surface (1112), the electrochemical potential (heat distribution function (1110) of electrons in the emitter electrode (1102) having a Fermi level ( _μe ) or higher) is shown. The work function (WF _e ) of the emitter electrode (1102) extends from the Fermi level (μ _e ) of the emitter electrode (1102) to the potential (E _e ) of the emitter electrode. Similarly, as a function of the distance of the electrode (1104) from the surface (1116), the electron heat distribution function (1114) of the collector electrode (1104) above the electrochemical potential (Fermi level (μ _c )) is shown. ing. The work function (WF _c ) of the collector electrode (1104) extends from the Fermi level (μ _c ) of the collector electrode (1104) to the potential (E _c ) of the collector electrode. The Fermi level (μ _c ) of the collector electrode (1104) is shifted upward by the potential of the load (eV _load ) connected to the electrodes (1102) and (1104), and the contact potential difference voltage (V _CPD ) across the cavity. (1108), where eV _load and V _CPD are equal to each other. The potential function (E) is from the surface (1112) of the emitter electrode (1102) to the surface (1116) of the collector electrode (1104), i.e., as indicated by the arrow (1118), the electrons are in the nanofluid (1106) and the cavity (1106). It is shown to decay linearly from Ee to Ec as it traverses 1108). Since the emitter work function (WF _e ) is larger than the collector work function (WF _c ), the electrons are accelerated toward the collector electrode (1104) and not toward the emitter electrode (1102). Therefore, the operating function of the nanoscale energy converter (100) is determined by selecting the materials of the emitter electrode (1102) and collector electrode (1104) along with the relevant work function and Fermi level values. In an exemplary embodiment, the work function (WF _e ) of the emitter electrode (1102) is equal to the combination of the external load and the work function (WF _c ) of the collector electrode (1104).

[0078] With reference to FIG. 12 (and FIGS. 1 and 9), a diagram (1200) showing electron transfer due to collision of a plurality of nanoparticle clusters is provided. As shown in FIG. 12, the nanofluid (1202) comprises a plurality of nanoparticle clusters (1204) suspended in a dielectric medium (1206). In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of nanoparticle clusters (1204) include Au nanoparticle clusters (1208) and Ag nanoparticle clusters (1210). The Au nanoparticle cluster (1208) has a work function value of about 4.1 eV and the Ag nanoparticle cluster (1210) has a work function value of about 3.8 eV. These work function values of the nanoparticle cluster (1204) are much higher than the work function values of the emitter electrodes (102) (0.88 eV) and collector electrodes (104) (0.65 eV). The nanoparticle clusters (1204) are coated with alkanethiol to form a dielectric barrier (1212) on top to reduce the coalescence of the nanoparticle clusters (1204). In one embodiment, the nanoparticle cluster (1204) has a diameter of about 2 nm. The nanoparticle cluster (1204) is tuned to be conductive with capacitive (ie, charge storage) function while minimizing heat transfer through it. Thus, the suspended nanoparticle clusters (1204) provide a conductive path for electrons to travel across the cavity (110) from the emitter electrode (102) to the collector electrode (104) via charge transfer.

[0079] Due to the heat-induced Brownian motion, the nanoparticle clusters (1204) move within the dielectric medium (1206), during which the nanoparticle clusters collide with each other or the electrodes (102) and (104). ) May collide. When the nanoparticle cluster (1204) moves and collides in the dielectric medium (1206), the nanoparticle cluster (1204) chemically and physically transfers charges. The nanoparticle cluster (1204) is charged as electrons (1214) hop from the electrodes (102) and (104) to the nanoparticle cluster (1204) and from one nanoparticle cluster (1204) to another nanoparticle. Is chemically transferred. This hop mainly occurs during a collision. Due to the difference in work function values, the electrons (1214) move from the emitter electrode (102) to the collector electrode (104) via the nanoparticle cluster (1204), and there is not much reverse direction. Therefore, the net electron current from the emitter electrode (102) to the collector electrode (104) via the nanoparticle cluster (1204) is the main and dominant current of the nanoscale energy converter (100).

[0080] The nanoparticle cluster (1204) is physically formed by the ionization of the nanoparticle cluster (1204) upon receipt of an electron and the electric field generated by the differently charged electrodes (102) and (104). Transfer charge to (ie, receive temporary charge). The nanoparticle cluster (1204) is ionized during collisions when gaining or losing electrons (1214). The positively and negatively charged nanoparticle clusters (1204) in the nanofluid (1202) move to the negatively charged collector electrode (104) and the positively charged emitter electrode (102), respectively, to provide electron flow. This ionic current flow is in the opposite direction of the electron current flow, but much smaller in magnitude than the electron flow.

[0081] Rebonding of some ions occurs in the nanofluid (1202), reducing both electron and ion currents. The electrode spacing can be selected to the optimum width to maximize ion formation and minimize ion recombination. In an exemplary embodiment, the electrode spacing is slightly less than 10 nm. Since the maximum size of the nanoparticle cluster (1204) is about 2 nm, the electrode spacing is about 3-5 nanoparticle clusters (1204). This separation distance provides sufficient space in the cavity for the nanoparticle clusters (1204) to move around and collide while minimizing ion recombination. For example, in one embodiment, the electrons hop from the emitter electrode (102) to the first nanoparticle cluster (1204) before hopping to the collector electrode (104), then the second, third, fourth, and so on. Alternatively, it can be hopping to a fifth nanoparticle cluster (1204). As the number of hoppings decreases, the chances of ion recombination are reduced. Therefore, ion recombination in the nanofluid (1202) is minimized through the electrode separation distance selected with the optimum width to maximize ion formation and minimize ion recombination.

When the emitter electrode (102) and the collector electrode (104) first approach each other, the electrons in the collector electrode (104) are smaller than the electrons in the emitter electrode (102) because the work function of the collector electrode (104) is low. Has a high Fermi level. This difference in Fermi levels is the net transfer of electrons from the collector electrode (104) to the emitter electrode (102) until the Fermi levels are equal, i.e., until the electrochemical potentials are balanced and thermodynamic equilibrium is achieved. Drives the electronic current of. When electrons move between the emitter electrode (102) and the collector electrode (104), a charge difference occurs between the emitter electrode (102) and the collector electrode (104). This charge difference creates a contact potential difference voltage (V _CPD ) and electric field between the emitter electrode (102) and collector electrode (104), where the polarity of the V _CPD is determined by a material with a large work function. When the Fermi levels are equal, no net current flows between the emitter electrode (102) and the collector electrode (104). Therefore, when the emitter electrode (102) and collector electrode (104) are electrically coupled without an external load, a contact potential difference between the electrodes (102) and (104) is achieved with the two electrodes (102) and (104). The achievement of the thermodynamic equilibrium between) prevents the net current from flowing between the electrodes (102) and (104).

[0083] The nanoscale energy converter (100) can generate electric power (eg, at room temperature) with or without additional heat input. The heat applied to the emitter electrode (102) raises its temperature and raises the Fermi level of its electrons. When the Fermi level of the emitter electrode (102) is higher than the Fermi level of the collector electrode (104), a net electron current flows from the emitter electrode (102) through the nanofluid (1202) to the collector electrode (104). Flow to. When an external circuit (128) is connected, the same amount of electron current flows from the collector electrode (104) to the emitter electrode (102) through the external circuit current (134). The thermal energy added to the emitter electrode (102) is carried to the collector electrode (104) by electrons (1214). Most of the added energy is transferred to an external circuit (128) to convert it into useful work, and some of the added energy is transferred to the collector electrode (104) in the event of a collision and eventually discarded. It is lost to the surroundings as energy. As the energy input to the emitter electrode (102) increases, the temperature of the electrode (102) decreases as the highest energy electrons are emitted, resulting in an increase in electron transmission from the emitter electrode (102), thereby more. A lot of current is generated. When the emitter electrode (102) emits electrons to the nanoparticle cluster (1204) (912), the energy is stored in the nanoscale energy converter (100). Thus, the nanoscale energy converter (100) generates, stores, and transfers charges, transfers thermal energy if there is a temperature difference, and with additional thermal energy, from the emitter electrode (102) to the nanofluid (102). The generation of electrons to 1202) increases.

[0084] The nanofluid (1202) is movable from the emitter electrode (102) due to collision with the emitter electrode (102) of the nanoparticle cluster (1204) induced by the Brownian motion (914) of the nanoparticle cluster (1204). Used to transfer charge (via intermediate contact potential difference) to one of the nanoparticle clusters (1204). By selecting heterogeneous nanoparticle clusters (1204), including Au nanoparticle clusters (1208) and Ag nanoparticle clusters (1210), which have large work functions of about 4.1 eV and about 3.8 eV, respectively, the emitter electrodes (1208). The transfer of electrons from 102) to the nanoparticle cluster (1204) and the transfer of electrons to the collector electrode (104) are optimized. A single nanoparticle cluster aggregates faster than a mixed nanoparticle cluster.

When an electron (1214) hops from a nanoparticle cluster (1204) to a nanoparticle cluster (1204), another electron (1214) is generated if the electron (1214) is already present in the nanoparticle cluster (1204). Determine if a single electron charging effect, including the additional work required to hop to the nanoparticle cluster (1204), can hopping additional electrons (1214) to that particular nanoparticle cluster (1204). Specifically, the nanoparticle cluster (1204) includes a voltage feedback mechanism that prevents hopping of more than a predetermined number of electrons into the nanoparticle cluster (1204). This prevents the nanoparticle cluster from having more electrons than allowed at the same time. In one embodiment, only one electron (1214) is allowed on any nanoparticle cluster (1204) at a time. Thus, a single electron (1214) hops to the nanoparticle cluster (1204) during the conduction of current through the nanofluid (1202). The electrons (1214) do not stay on the nanoparticle cluster (1204) indefinitely, but through collisions due to Brownian motion of the nanoparticle cluster (1204), the next nanoparticle cluster (1204) or collector electrode (104). ) To hop off. However, the electrons (1214) remain in the nanoparticle cluster (1204) for a sufficient amount of time to provide the necessary voltage feedback to prevent additional electrons (1214) from hopping to the nanoparticle cluster (1204) at the same time. Hopping of electrons (1214) across nanoparticle clusters (1204) avoids resistance heating associated with current flow in the medium. In particular, the nanoscale energy converter (100) does not require precharging by an external power source to introduce electrostatic force. This is because the apparatus (100) is self-charged by the frictional charge generated at the time of contact between the nanoparticle clusters (1204) due to Brownian motion. Therefore, electron hopping across the nanofluid (1202) is limited to one electron (1214) at a time on the nanoparticle cluster (1204).

[0086] When an electric current begins to flow through the nanofluid (1202), a net energy exchange between the emitted (1214) electron and the substituted electron causes a substantial energy flux away from the emitter electrode (102). Realize. The substituted electrons from the second conductor (132) connected to the emitter electrode (102) are not equal to the average Fermi energy associated with the material of the emitter electrode (102), but the average Fermi energy. It arrives with energy lower than the value. Therefore, the substitution energy of the substitution electrons is not equal to the chemical potential of the emitter electrode (102), and the electron substitution process is carried out in an available energy state below the Fermi energy of the emitter electrode (102). The process by which electrons are emitted above the Fermi level and replaced by electrons below the Fermi energy is sometimes referred to as the reverse Nottingham effect. Therefore, when the work function value of the emitter electrode (102) is as low as about 0.88 eV, the emitted electrons can be replaced with electrons having a lower energy level, and a cooling effect can be induced in the emitter electrode (102). ..

[0087] A plurality of nanoscale energy conversion devices (100) are distinguished by at least one embodiment having the thermoelectric energy conversion function described herein. Generally, the nanofluid (1202) is selected so that the nanoscale energy converter (100) operates over multiple temperature ranges. In one embodiment, the temperature range of the associated nanoscale energy converter (100) is controlled to modulate the power output of the device (100). Generally, as the temperature of the emitter electrode (102) rises, the rate of thermionic emission from it rises. The operating temperature range of the nanofluid (1202) is based on the desired power of the nanoscale energy converter (100), the temperature range for optimizing thermoelectric conversion, and the fluid properties. Therefore, different embodiments of the nanofluid (1202) are designed for different energy outputs of the device (100). For example, with respect to the nanofluid (1202), when the dielectric medium (1206) is silicone oil, in order to avoid harmful changes in energy transformation due to changes in the viscosity of the silicone oil at 250 ° C or higher, the nanofluid (1202) The temperature should be maintained below 250 ° C. In one embodiment, the temperature range of the nanofluid (1202) for substantially thermionic emission ranges from room temperature (ie, about 20 ° C to about 25 ° C) to about 70-80 ° C, thermionic and thermoelectric. The nanofluid for conversion is above 70-80 ° C, and the main limitation is the temperature limitation of the material. The working nanofluid (1202), including thermoelectric transformation, includes a temperature range that optimizes thermoelectric conversion by optimizing the power density within the nanoscale energy converter (100), thereby the apparatus (100). The output can be optimized. In at least one embodiment, the mechanism for regulating the temperature of the nanofluid (1202) comprises diverting a portion of the energy output of the apparatus (100) to the nanofluid (1202). Thus, the cavity (110) of a particular embodiment of the nanoscale energy transformation apparatus (100) is a nanofluid (nanofluid) for obtaining thermoelectric energy conversion above a specific temperature range, or thermoelectric energy conversion below its own temperature range. It can be filled with 1202).

[0088] As described elsewhere herein, in at least one embodiment, the dielectric medium (1206) is less than about 1.0 watt / metric Kelvin (W / (mK)). Has a thermal conductivity value. In at least one embodiment, the thermal conductivity of the dielectric medium (1206) is about 0, compared to the thermal conductivity of water at about 20 degrees Celsius (° C) of 0.6 W / (m · K). It is as low as 013W / (m ・ K). Therefore, the nanofluid (1202) has a low thermal conductivity value that minimizes heat transfer through the cavity (110). The low thermal conductivity nanofluid (1202) can reduce heat transport so that a high temperature difference between the two electrodes (102) and (104) can be maintained during operation. These embodiments are designed for those nanoscale energy converters (100) that use only thermionic emissions, where heat transfer through the nanofluid (1202) is desired to be minimal.

[089] In some alternative embodiments of the nanoscale energy converter (100), greater heat transfer via the nanofluid (1202) is desired. The nanoscale energy converter (100) has the dimensions of a cavity (110) less than about 10 nm. In this predetermined distance range from about 1 nm to less than about 10 nm, the thermal and electrical conductivity values of the nanofluid (1202) are the heat of the nanofluid (1202) when the predetermined distance of the cavity is greater than about 100 nm. It will be higher than the conductivity and electrical conductivity values. This increase in the thermal and electrical conductivity values of the nanofluid (1202) is due to several factors. The first factor is that the movement of phonons and electrons between the plurality of nanoparticle clusters (1204) in the nanofluid (1202) is enhanced, the plurality of nanoparticle clusters (1204) and the first electrode (102). The movement of phonons and electrons between the two is enhanced, and the movement of phonons and electrons between the plurality of nanoparticle clusters (1204) and the second electrode (104) is enhanced. The second factor is the enhanced effect of Brownian motion of nanoparticle clusters (1204) on a more confined volume, seen on a scale less than about 10 nm. When the distance between the electrodes (106) is about 10 nm or less, the characteristics of the fluid continuum of the nanofluid (1202) having the floating nanoparticle clusters (1204) change. For example, as the ratio of particle size to the volume of the cavity (110) increases, effects such as random convection of Brownian motion in dilute solutions dominate. Therefore, the nanoparticle cluster (1204) collides with the surfaces of other nanoparticle clusters (1204) and the electrodes (102) and (104) to promote the movement of phonons and electrons, resulting in thermal conductivity and electrical conductivity. The value of is increased. The third factor is the formation of a nanoparticle cluster (1204) matrix in the nanofluid (1202) at least partially. In one embodiment, the formation of the matrix is based on time factors and / or the concentration of nanoparticle clusters (1204) in the nanofluid (1202). Under certain conditions, the nanoparticle clusters (1204) form a matrix within the nanofluid (1202) as a function in close proximity to each other, while some other nanoparticle clusters (1206) remain independent of the matrix. Become. The fourth factor is the density of predetermined nanoparticle clusters (1204), which is about 1 mol per liter in one embodiment. Therefore, the very small size of the cavity (110), less than about 10 nm, increases the thermal and electrical conductivity values of the nanofluid (1202) therein.

[0090] Moreover, the nanoparticle clusters (1204) are very thin and are believed to have only one dimension, i.e. their characteristic length. This extreme thinness limits electrons and holes in a process called quantum confinement, improving electrical conductivity. Collision of particles with different quantum confinements facilitates the transfer of charge to the electrodes (102) and (104). When the size of the nanoparticle cluster (1204) is small, the influence on the surface is large and the thermal conductivity tends to be high. The embodiment of the nanoscale energy converter (100) has a high conductivity value of more than about 1 siemens (S / m) per meter. Further, the embodiment of the apparatus (100) having improved thermal conductivity has a thermal conductivity value of more than about 1 W / m · K.

[0091] Thermionic emission of electrons (1214) from the emitter electrode (102) and movement of electrons (1214) across the nanofluid (1202) from the nanoparticle cluster (1204) to the nanoparticle cluster (1204) by hopping. Are both quantum mechanical effects.

The emission of electrons from the emitter electrode (102) by thermionic emission as described herein is an energy-selective mechanism. The Coulomb barrier in the cavity (110) between the emitter electrode (102) and the collector electrode (104) is due to the interaction of the nanoparticles (1204) with the electrodes (102) and (104) in the cavity (110). Be guided. The Coulomb barrier is at least partially induced by the number and material composition of multiple nanoparticle clusters (1204). The Coulomb barrier induced via the nanofluid (1202) provides an energy selection barrier on the order of magnitude of about 1 eV. Thus, the nanofluid (1202) provides an energy-selective barrier to electron emission and transfer.

[093] To overcome the thermionic barrier and emit electrons (1214) above the energy level required to overcome this barrier from the emitter electrode (102), the emitter electrode (102) and collector electrode (104). The material selection of is selected according to the work function value and the Fermi level value. The Fermi levels of the two metal electrodes (102) and (104) and the nanoparticle cluster (1204) are aligned by tunneling electrons (1214) from the electrodes (102) and (104) to the nanoparticle cluster (1204). Try to make it. The thermionic barrier is overcome by the potential difference between the two electrodes (102) and (104) (described elsewhere herein), and the emission of electrons (1214) from the emitter electrode (102) is thermal. Generated with enough energy to overcome the electron block. In particular, when higher energy electrons are removed from the emitter electrode (102) for cooling purposes, the emission of electrons (1214) results in more thermal energy than is realized by the lower energy electrons (102). Removed from. Therefore, the energy-selective barrier is overcome by thermionic emission of electrons at higher energy levels than would occur without the barrier.

[0094] When electrons (1214) are emitted from the emitter electrode (102) by thermionic emission, the barrier continues to be an obstacle to further transmission of electrons (1214) through the nanofluid (1202). Smaller gaps on the order of about 1-10 nm facilitate short-range electron hopping, or field emission, across the cavity (110). Since the energy required for electron hopping is much lower than the energy required for thermionic emission, electron hopping has a great influence on the energy generation characteristics of the apparatus (100). The design of the nanofluid (1202) enables energy-selective tunneling (hopping). This is due to a special type of barrier (which has a wider gap for low energy electrons), with electrons above the Fermi level being the main hopping component. The direction of electron hopping is determined by the selection of the various materials of the electrodes (102) and (104) and their associated work functions and Fermi level values. Electron hopping across the nanofluid (1202) heats with electrons (1214) across the cavity (110) while maintaining a predetermined temperature gradient so that the temperature of the fluid (1214) does not change relatively during electron transfer. Transfers energy. Thus, the emitted electrons transport thermal energy from the emitter electrode (102) across the cavity (110) to the collector electrode (104) without raising the temperature of the nanofluid (1202).

[0995] Application Example of Nanoscale Energy Converter [0906] With reference to FIG. 13, a diagram showing an embodiment of use of the nanoscale energy converter (1300) is provided. Thermal energy (1302) from the source enters the emitter electrode (1304). The electrons (1306) are thermically emitted from the emitter electrode (1304) (1318). The electron (1306) traverses a cavity (1308) filled with nanofluid (1310) as described herein. The electron (1306) reaches the collector electrode (1312) that collects the electron (1306) (1320) and is transmitted to the load (1316) through the first conductor (1322) to perform work. (1314) is generated. The load (1316) is connected to the emitter (1304) by a second conductor (1324). The current represented by the arrow (1326) flows in the direction opposite to the electron flow (1314). Therefore, the nanoscale energy converter (1300) collects thermal energy (1302) including waste heat and ambient heat to generate electric power (1314).

[097] Referring to FIG. 14, a system (1400) of stacked or grouped nanoscale energy converters (1402) that, in one embodiment, generate power from waste heat or heat (1404), which is a waste heat by-product. ) Is provided. The system (1400) includes a plurality of nanoscale energy converters (1402) in an insulated casing (1406). Each nanoscale energy converter (1402) can generate at least 0.024 watts / cell and the system (1400) can reach a power density of about 1550 watts / liter, thus about 64,583 devices (1402). ) Is involved. For a particular home using 3 kW (kW), in one embodiment, a system (1400) that powers a typical home requires a system of about 2 liters. The stacked nanoscale energy converters (1402) (series or parallel) define a power flux to obtain a power system with the desired current and voltage characteristics. In addition, an additional device (1402) enhances the heat removal function. Therefore, the nanoscale energy converter (1402) is expandable and configurable to provide power under a variety of applications.

[098] Referring to FIG. 15, waste heat collection including a nanoscale energy transformation group (1502) that is coupled to an electronic chip (1504) such as a semiconductor chip and collects electrical energy from waste heat from the electronic chip (1504). A diagram showing the system (1500) is provided. Such a system (1500) is suitable for use in mobile phones and other portable electronic devices. The electronic chip (1504) is attached to the nanoscale energy transformation group (1502) with an adhesive (1506), eg, but not limited to, an epoxy adhesive. The stacked nanoscale energy converter group (1502) includes, for example, but not limited to, about 35 stacked nanoscale energy converters. In one embodiment, the quantity of stacked nanoscale energy converters can vary depending on the size and dimensions of the semiconductor chip. For example, in one embodiment, this quantity can range from a minimum of 1 to more than 1000 stacked nanoscale energy converters. Similarly, in one embodiment, a stack of multiple nanoscale energy converters forms the layer. The nanoscale energy transformation group (1502) is cooled by both radiant heat transfer (1508) and natural convection heat transfer (1510). The nanoscale energy transformation group (1502) is driven by a temperature difference, where the electronic chip (1504) operates at about 100 ° C. The collected power does not need to be used to cool the system (1500). The nanoscale energy conversion group (1502) includes a predetermined number of nanoscale energy conversion devices for doubling current and voltage as needed. Therefore, the nanoscale energy transformation group (1502) can cool by combining natural convection and radiation without the need to install a power-consuming fluid transfer device.

[099] Referring to FIG. 16, an array of nanoscale energy converters (1604) coupled to a solar cell array (1606) that collects electrical energy from a thermal by-product (1608) from the solar cell array (1606). A diagram showing a power generation system (1600) including 1602) is provided. An energy storage device (1610), such as an unrestricted ultracapacitor, is electrically connected to an array (1602) of a nanoscale energy converter (1604). By integrating the nanoscale energy converter (1604) into the power generation system (1600), the array (1602) cools the solar cell array (1606) and at the same time synergistically generates power to generate photovoltaic power. Production can be increased. In addition to strengthening solar power generation, the integration of nanoscale energy converters (1604) can enhance other heat sources such as hot water, geothermal sources and waste heat sources for automobiles to enhance electricity generation. can. Therefore, the nanoscale energy conversion device (1604) can be integrated with a plurality of energy recovery devices to produce a device with a high energy density that cannot be achieved without such integration.

[0100] In at least one embodiment described herein, the present disclosure is generally directed to an ultra-long life energy source such as a battery, and more specifically to a nanoscale energy conversion device. Ionization is provided by a combination of electron tunneling and thermionic emission in a nanoscale energy converter. Charge transfer is carried out by the collision of conductive nanoparticles suspended in a fluid (eg, a nanofluid) with thermally induced Brownian motion. The design of this device allows the extraction of ambient energy at low and high temperatures (including room temperature). For this reason, the electrodes are very close to each other, allowing electrons to move the distance between the electrodes. These electrons emitted over a wide temperature range travel across the gap as the nanofluid provides a conduction path for the electrons, minimizing heat transfer and maintaining a nanoscale heat engine, resulting in an arc discharge. Be prevented. With respect to thermionic transducers, the electrical efficiency of these devices depends on the material of the very low work function deposited on the emitter electrode (cathode) and collector electrode (anode). The efficiency of the two low work function electrodes can be improved by developing a cathode that is capable of sufficiently thermionic emission of electrons even at room temperature. Cathodes and anodes with these low work functions provide large amounts of electrons. Similarly, the tunneling device comprises two low work function electrodes separated by a designed nanofluid. Cooling by electrode emission refers to the transfer of high-temperature electrons from the object to be cooled (cathode) to the heat-removing electrode (anode) through the nanofluid gap. In this embodiment, a technique for forming two low-work function electrodes containing cesium oxide in tungsten and gold by electrospray, thermoelectron emission and electron quantum hopping by energy-selective electron transfer, and heat transfer in an apparatus. It combines multiple technologies, such as nanofluids tuned as thermoelectric elements that conduct electricity while minimizing the amount of heat, heat transfer from equipment and an anode electrical connection that is in thermal contact with an external heat source. The combination of this technology will produce a feasible thermionic generator.

[0101] The nanoscale energy converters of the embodiments described herein facilitate the generation of electrical energy via a long-life, always-chargeable battery for electrical applications of any size scale. The apparatus of the embodiment described herein provides a battery with better conversion efficiency than currently available single and double conversion batteries. Further, the apparatus of the embodiments described herein can be manufactured as an integral part of an integrated circuit to provide electrical energy to the integrated circuit. The apparatus of the embodiment described herein is a lightweight and compact multiplex conversion battery with a power output of useful value and a relatively long operating life. Further, in addition to the tuned work function, the nanoparticle clusters of the embodiments described herein are polyphase nanocomposites, including thermoelectric materials. Combining thermoelectric and thermoion functions within a single device further enhances the power generation capacity of the nanoscale energy conversion device of the embodiments described herein.

[0102] By converting ambient thermal energy into usable electricity, electrons to a conventional power source such as an electrochemical battery, especially when a large number of electronic devices in dispersed locations need to be used for a long period of time. It enables energy harvesting that can offset or replace device dependencies. Energy harvesting has unique advantages, such as excellent lifespan of several years, low maintenance, and low disposal and pollution problems, unlike conventional battery and wiring power supplies. The nanoscale energy converters described herein are new, low cost generators for the efficient collection of thermal energy (requires an initial temperature difference or temperature gradient to initiate the flow of electrons). Do not).

[0103] The nanoscale energy converters of the embodiments described herein are expandable over a number of power generation requirements. These devices can be designed for applications that require power in the range of milliwatts (mW), watts (W), kilowatts (kW), and megawatts (MW). Examples of mW range devices include IoT (Internet of Things) related devices (home appliances, vehicles (communication only)), portable portable electronic devices (mobile phones, medical devices, tablets), and embedded systems (RFIDs). , Wearable), but not limited to these. Examples of watt range devices include, but are not limited to, portable sensors, networks, robotic equipment, cordless tools, drones, appliances, toys, vehicles, utility lighting, and edge computing. Examples of kW range equipment include residential off-grid equipment (rather than fossil fuel backup generators), resilient / sustainable housing, portable generators, electric silent transportation (including water transportation), and Includes, but is not limited to, spacecraft. Examples of MW range equipment include off-grid equipment for industrial / data centers / facilities (uninterruptible power supplies, etc.), resilient complexes, city centers, commercial and military aircraft, flying cars, railroads / locomotives. Includes, but is not limited to, truck / ship transport.

[0104] Aspects of the present embodiment are described herein with reference to one or more of the flow charts and / or block diagrams of the method and apparatus (system) according to the embodiment. The embodiments can be combined with each other, for example, so that one embodiment can be used to modify another.

[0105] The terms used herein are for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. As used herein, the terms "contains" and / or "provides" specify the presence of the features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components described, but one or more. It is further understood that it does not preclude the existence or addition of other features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0106] Corresponding structures, materials, acts, and equivalents of all means or step plus function elements within the claims perform a function in combination with other specifically claimed elements. Intended to include any structure, material, or act for. The description of this embodiment has been presented for purposes of illustration and illustration, but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the disclosed embodiments. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the embodiment. The embodiments are selected and described to best explain the principles and practical applications of the embodiments and to allow one of ordinary skill in the art to understand the various embodiments with various modifications suitable for the particular use intended. Was done. The implementation of a nanoscale energy converter as a heat collector that efficiently converts waste heat energy into usable electrical energy facilitates the flexible use of small generators. Thus, nanoscale energy converters and related embodiments as illustrated and described in FIGS. 1-16 provide power through heat conversion in most known environments, including ambient temperature environments.

[0107] Although specific embodiments are described herein for illustrative purposes, it will be appreciated that various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the embodiments. In particular, nanoscale energy converters have been shown to be configured to collect waste heat from a stationary or relatively stationary state. Alternatively, the nanoscale energy converter can be configured to collect heat or waste heat during exercise. Therefore, the scope of protection of the embodiments is limited only by the following claims and their equivalents.

Claims (26)

The first electrode,
A first substrate having at least a first material, wherein the first material has a first work function value, and the first material contains tungsten (W).
At least one second material different from the first material, deposited on at least the first portion of the first material, the first electrode having a higher work function value than the first. A second material having a small second work function value, wherein the second material contains cesium oxide (Cs ₂ O), and the second material.
With the first electrode, including
A second electrode arranged away from the first electrode.
A second substrate comprising the first material and at least one third material different from the second material, wherein the third material has a third work function value and the third material. The material of the second substrate, which contains gold (Au),
At least one fourth material different from the first material and the third material, which is deposited on at least a second portion of the at least one third material, the second electrode. A fourth material having a fourth work function value smaller than the third work function value and the fourth material containing Cs ₂ O, and the fourth material.
A device comprising: and a second electrode comprising. In the apparatus according to claim 1,
The second material extends over 50% of the first surface of the first substrate.
The fourth material is an apparatus characterized in that it extends over 50% of the second surface of the second substrate. In the apparatus according to claim 1 or 2.
The second material is an apparatus characterized in that it extends over 60% or more of the first surface of the first substrate. In the apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
The fourth material is an apparatus characterized in that it extends over 60% or more of the second surface of the second substrate. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein an electrospray deposit of monodisperse droplets of Cs ₂ O is further contained on each of the first and second portions. .. In the apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, at least one second layer and at least one fourth layer are formed of Cs ₂ O on the first and second portions, respectively. A device comprising at least two layers. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a plurality of dipoles formed in at least one of the first portion and the second portion, wherein the dipole comprises a nanoantenna. A device characterized by being specified. The device according to claim 7, further comprising a nano-antenna for changing the proximity dipole moment. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the predetermined distance includes a range of 1 nanometer to less than 10 nanometer. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the predetermined distance is less than 10 nanometers. A plurality of devices according to any one of claims 1 to 10 for maintaining the separation of the first and second electrodes and defining a cavity between the first electrode and the second electrode. A device characterized by further inclusion of an insulator post. The device according to claim 11, further comprising an interstitial nanofluid maintained in the cavity. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the first substrate contains a first nanometal film, and the second substrate contains a second nanometal film. In the manufacturing method of the device
This is the step of manufacturing the first electrode.
Provided is a first electrode substrate comprising at least the first material, wherein the first material has a first work function value and the first material comprises tungsten (W).
At least one second material different from the first material is deposited on at least a portion of the first material, wherein the deposition of the at least one second material is the first. The step, which results in a second work function value for the electrode, the second work function value is smaller than the first work function value, and the second material contains cesium monoxide (Cs ₂ O).
This is the step of manufacturing the second electrode.
Provided is a second electrode substrate containing at least one third material different from the first and second materials, wherein the third material has a third work function value and the third material. Material contains gold (Au)
On at least a portion of the at least one third material, at least one fourth material different from the first and third materials is deposited, where the at least one fourth material is deposited. Brings a fourth work function value to the second electrode, the fourth work function value is smaller than the third work function value, and the fourth material contains Cs ₂ O. A method characterized by including. In the method of claim 14, further
The step of extending the second material to more than 50% of the first surface of the first substrate,
A method comprising: extending the fourth material to more than 50% of the second surface of the second substrate. In the method of claim 14 or 15, further
A method comprising the step of extending the second material to at least 60% of the first surface of the first substrate. In the method according to any one of claims 14 to 16, further
A method comprising the step of extending the fourth material to at least 60% of the second surface of the second substrate. The method according to any one of claims 14 to 17, comprising electrospraying a monodisperse droplet of Cs ₂ O onto each of the first and second portions. In the method of any of claims 14-18, the at least one second layer and the at least one fourth layer are each on the first and second portions, respectively, with Cs ₂ O. A method comprising at least two layers formed. The method according to any one of claims 14 to 19, further comprising forming a plurality of dipoles in at least one of the first portion and the second portion, wherein the dipole is a nanoantenna. A method characterized by prescribing. The method according to claim 20, wherein the nanoantenna changes a proximity dipole moment. In the method according to any one of claims 14 to 21, further
A step in which the second electrode is placed away from the first electrode and the distance defines at least a cavity between the first electrode and the second electrode.
A method comprising adding a nanofluid to the cavity, wherein the nanofluid comprises a step, comprising a plurality of nanoparticles. 22. The method of claim 22, wherein the distance comprises a range of 1 nanometer to less than 10 nanometers. 22 or 23, wherein the distance is less than 10 nanometers. The method according to any one of claims 14 to 24, wherein the first substrate contains a first nanometal film, and the second substrate contains a second nanometal film. In the way to generate electricity
The first electrode,
A first substrate having at least a first material, wherein the first material has a first work function value, and the first material contains tungsten (W).
At least one second material different from the first material, deposited on at least the first portion of the first material, the first electrode having a higher work function value than the first. A second material having a small second work function value, wherein the second material contains cesium oxide (Cs ₂ O), and the second material.
The step of providing the first electrode, including
A second electrode arranged at a predetermined distance from the first electrode.
A second substrate comprising the first material and at least one third material different from the second material, wherein the third material has a third work function value and the third material. The material of the second substrate, which contains gold (Au),
At least one fourth material different from the first and third materials, deposited on at least a second portion of the at least one third material, the second electrode being the third. A step of providing a _second electrode comprising a fourth material, wherein the fourth material has a fourth work function value that is less than the work function value of.
The step of establishing a contact potential difference between the first electrode and the second electrode, and
The step of establishing a contact potential difference between the first electrode and the second electrode, and
A step of providing multiple nanoparticles in a cavity defined by the distance arrangement,
The step of emitting a plurality of electrons from the first electrode and
A method comprising: moving a plurality of emitted electrons to the second electrode via Brownian motion of the nanoparticles.

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