Direct Solar/Thermal to Electrical Energy Conversion Technologies

Explore comprehensive principles and technologies for converting heat into electricity through solid-state devices in this graduate-level course taught by Professor Gang Chen at MIT. Master thermoelectric energy conversion fundamentals including thermoelectric materials, energy states in matter, and kinetic formulations of thermoelectricity. Examine thermionic energy conversion mechanisms and photovoltaic cell operations while investigating current research developments in thermoelectric materials. Delve into solar thermal technologies by analyzing various solar heat collection systems and understanding radiative heat transfer principles. Learn about solar concentration techniques and discover the principles behind solar thermophotovoltaics and solar thermoelectrics. Study critical spectral control techniques essential for optimizing solar thermal system performance. Progress through nine structured lectures covering introductory concepts, device physics, material science considerations, and advanced solar thermal applications, gaining both theoretical understanding and practical insights into direct energy conversion technologies.