Near-Field Radiative Heat Transfer and Energy Conversion in Nanogaps of Nano- and Meta-Structured Materials
Abstract
This proposal seeks to understand the fundamental principles of near-field (NF) radiative heat transfer (RHT) that are of great current interest as a number of remarkable phenomena are expected to arise in this unexplored NF regime. Recent experimentsÑlargely by the PIs of this proposalÑ have elucidated some of the novel principles of NFRHT. In spite of this initial progress key questions regarding NFRHT between non-reciprocal, nanostructured 2D and phase change materials, as well as novel NF energy conversion phenomena remain unaddressed. To address these long-standing challenges we assembled an expert team in theory and computations, materials and experimental approaches. We propose a broad range of unified theoretical and experimental approaches via interrelated thrusts. First and foremost, this MURI will achieve a fundamentally new understanding of the flow and conversion of thermal energy via photons in the near-field. Scientific insights from this work will spur the development of NF-based thermal diodes and thermal transistors, which may enable innovative thermal-based computing for niche future applications. The NF-based energy conversion principles studied in this MURI can enable high-power, high-efficiency thermophotovoltaic energy conversion from diverse energy sources. Further, NF-based photonic refrigeration structures may be highly desirable for on-chip, photonic cooling that could improve the robustness and reliability of current optoelectronics. Finally, NFRHT may enable novel high- resolution lithography and information storage (heat assisted magnetic recording). Taken together, we expect that the proposed studies will generate potentially revolutionary insights that will broadly improve the technological capabilities of the Army, increase personnel safety, device reliability, and enable efficient and highly flexible power generation.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jul 24, 2019
- Source ID
- W911NF1910279
Entities
People
- Pramod Sangi Reddy
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- United States Army
- University of Michigan