Graphene-Based Devices for Thermal Energy Conversion and Utilization

Thermal energy conversion and utilization of integrated circuits is a very important research topic. Graphene is a new 2D material with superior electrical, mechanical, thermal, and optical properties, which is expected to continue Moore's law and make breakthroughs in the direction of “More than Moore.” Graphene-based functionalized devices are applied in various aspects, including breakthroughs in thermal devices, due to their high thermal conductivity and thermal rectification. According to the coupling of different physical quantities, graphene-based thermal devices can be divided into four categories: uncoupled thermal devices, thermoacoustic coupling devices, thermoelectric coupling devices, and thermo-optical coupling devices. The structure, working mechanism, and performance of these devices are discussed, as well as the coupling methods of physical quantities. Moreover, scale-up production of graphene and prospect for future graphene-based thermal devices are summarized. In-depth study of the development tendency of these graphene-based thermal devices is expected to contribute to the development of new high-performance thermal nanoelectronic devices in the future.