P15 : Synthesis of ZnO Nanorod Thin films for Thermoelectric Energy Conversion


Students Andres Lombo
School HCDSB - St. Thomas Aquinas Secondary School - Oakville
Level Senior 11/12 - Grade 12
Group Group 10 - Engineering and Computing III
Abstract For years to come, the increasing energy demands are anticipated all around the world. The search for devices which can meet human needs for energy in sustainable ways is indispensable and challenging. Nanotechnology shows a promising solution for this. In this project, hydrothermally synthesized ZnO nanorod thin films on fluorine-doped tin oxide substrates were characterized and examined per the thermoelectric figure of merit. The nanostructures were characterized with a scanning electron microscope and X-Ray microscopy. With the measurement of the film's Seebeck Coefficient, the ratio of the generated voltage to the applied temperature difference, the thin film was confirmed to be a promising solution waste heat recovery problems. The device shows potential for low-dimensional thermoelectric applications.
Awards
Group Award Prize
Dr. Colin J.L. Lock Memorial Chemistry AwardDr. Colin J.L. Lock Memorial Chemistry Award$ 100
McMaster University Faculty of Engineering Entrance AwardsMcMaster University Faculty of Engineering Entrance Award$6,000 Entrance Award
McMaster University Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology AwardMcMaster University Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology Award$ 100
Merit AwardsGold Merit Award$ 100
Grand AwardsPrimary Fluid Systems Pinnacle Third Best in Fair$ 500
ISEF Trip AwardsISEF Trip Award
Professional Engineers Ontario - Oakville Chapter AwardsProfessional Engineers of Ontario - Oakville Chapter Engineering Award - Senior$ 200
Primary Fluid Systems AwardsPrimary Fluid Systems Award$ 100
Nikola Tesla Innovation AwardsNikola Tesla Honourable Mention Award$ 50
EcoSynthetix Internship AwardEcoSynthetix Internship Award - First Runner-upLetter