PhD student 3: Miniature-scale thermomagnetic energy generators based on resonant self-actuation for low-grade waste heat
Shaoxiao Nie
Objectives
Extension of our recently developed concept of resonant self-actuation (TRL) 4 to low heat source temperatures (40-100°C) using tailored films provided by our partners in WP4. The main goal is to provide high performance TMG microdevices up to TRL 6 with power per footprint of 50 μW/cm² at low temperature difference of a few K.
Expected Results
- Simulation-based optimization of magnetic force and heat transfer between magnetic film and heat source/sink: Materials characterization, Multiphysics FEM simulations, LEM modelling of system dynamics, design optimization
- Process development for the fabrication of cantilever arrays with integrated magnetic films: Micromachining of magnetic films and hard magnetic structures, system integration, tailoring of bonding layers
- Microdevice characterization and demonstrator development: Time-resolved measurements of system performance (actuation, power, efficiency), power management, benchmarking
Work Package
WP2