Hi All,

Thermoelectric modules are well known to consist of repeating patterns of P and N type pellets. Most modules have an air gap between the pellets, but some have an "eggcrate" style buffer material (notably the ones supplied by Hi-Z corp). I was wondering if anyone can provide info as to the ramifications of using the buffer materials.

What material are they typically made out of? If the material has a thermal conductivity close to air then I assume their use would yield similar performance to their air gap counterparts. How much of a hit in performance is expected with the use of these materials for both power generation and cooling? Are they used to make manufacturing simplier or for a different purpose?

Thanks for any help!
Mike