An Electrically Controlled Heat Rectifier using Graphene Nanoribbons

• Using Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations we propose that splitting a graphene nanoribbon into two unequal strained sections using external force leads to large asymmetry in the forward and reverse heat fluxes. We find that the corresponding rectification ratio (RR) is enhanced to 60% compared to previous proposals. More importantly, the polarity of the proposed heat diode is controllable on-the-fly i.e. by changing the position where force is applied. This technique obviates the complex nano-patterning and lithography required to pattern graphene every time a new rectification value or sign is sought for and opens a route to simpler fabrication of phononic devices in 2D materials.

Subject headings

TEKNIK OCH TEKNOLOGIER  -- Maskinteknik -- Energiteknik (hsv//swe)

ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY  -- Mechanical Engineering -- Energy Engineering (hsv//eng)

TEKNIK OCH TEKNOLOGIER  -- Materialteknik -- Textil-, gummi- och polymermaterial (hsv//swe)

ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY  -- Materials Engineering -- Textile, Rubber and Polymeric Materials (hsv//eng)

NATURVETENSKAP  -- Fysik -- Annan fysik (hsv//swe)

NATURAL SCIENCES  -- Physical Sciences -- Other Physics Topics (hsv//eng)

Keyword

Graphene, Heat rectifier, Molecular Dynamics, Phononic devices

Publication and Content Type

kon (subject category)

ref (subject category)