Dynamic Seebeck effect in nanojunctions of nickel-chelated DNA

The Seebeck effect, as a form of sustainable energy, can convert waste heat into useful electric energy. It is highly desirable to design a compact thermoelectric module that integrates a high density of miniature thermoelectric components with high Seebeck coefficients. The conventional solid-state Seebeck effect produces voltage through the nonequilibrium distribution of electrons owing to temperature gradients. In this research, we have designed thermoelectric nanojunctions formed by nickel-ion-chelated DNA nanowires. These junctions have led to the discovery of a highly efficient Seebeck effect, which is assisted by the charging and discharging of the nickel ions utilizing the reversible redox reaction. The reversible redox reaction significantly enhances the Seebeck coefficients. Our theory, with parameters supported by the results of our experiments, predicts that the biomimicry thermopower mechanisms could generate giant Seebeck coefficients at a value larger than 105 µV/K. The dynamic Seebeck effects observed in Ni-DNA junctions could inspire the exploration of solid-state thermoelectric materials with similar working mechanisms, potentially useful in nanotechnology and green energy.