PNNL's experience developing innovative thermoelectric devices such as the Thermoelectric Ambient Energy Harvester has resulted in the creation of a proprietary generic technique for making these devices, enabling a range of thermoelectric processes. What makes this fabrication process different from other commercially available and deployed methods is that it can be applied to all applications from the microwatt range to megawatts.

This invention carefully exploits the concept of putting films of advanced thermoelectric materials (TEM) onto the surfact of a flexible film or substrate. These films become the scaffold of support on the film, which enables each application. Larger applications of this process may involve applying the film in a novel way to allow for longer and larger depositions, and ultimately a longer lasting energy source.