Only about one-third of Japan’s primary energy is used effectively; the remaining two-thirds is discharged as heat. Therefore, efficient use of thermal energy is key to solving problems with deteriorating energy, and thermal management and thermoelectric materials serve as the basis for these solutions. Using heat-dissipation materials with high thermal conductivity helps to increase the lifespan and efficiency of LEDs and power devices. Using poorly heat-conductive materials reduces engine cooling losses and improves thermal efficiency. Generation of power by using waste heat or renewable thermal energy such as solar heat can greatly help with energy saving. Our group integrates experimental methods, theory, calculations, and data science to search for and develop sophisticated thermal management materials and thermoelectric conversion materials by using ubiquitous elements.
Our group’s research and development themes are:
• heat dissipation materials with ultra-high thermal conductivity
• heat-insulating thin films with ultra-low thermal conductivity
• thermoelectric materials produced by using ubiquitous elements.