Some issues of history and prospects of thermoelectricity

This work analyzes the approaches that had led to the discovery of thermoelectricity and a generalized approach in the description of thermoelectric power conversion based on the induction of thermoelectric currents. Possibilities of thermal generators contribution to “green” technologies, in particular, to waste heat recovery from heat engines are analyzed. Tellurium problem and the ways of tackling it are considered. Attention is focused on the efficiency of computer methods for designing thermoelectric devices. The outlook for progress of thermoelectricity in measuring technique is considered. The information on the organizations and specialists in thermoelectricity is provided. The necessity of purposeful training specialists in thermoelectricity for its more successful development is emphasized.