Sensors powered by ambient thermal energy.
.Ambient Power Harvesting
PNNL researchers are investigating methods for harvesting ambient power from temperature differences, flows, electromagnetic fields, and light to power wireless sensors. After an initial overview examination of several concepts, researchers began development of energy harvesting using thermoelectric technology to harvest energy from temperature differences in the environment (e.g., the air inside and outside an HVAC duct). Significant advancements are anticipated in the process and cost of producing thermoelectric elements, which will become the centerpiece of sensors powered by temperature differences.