TAM Ceramics recently announced it has received a $500,000 award from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) to develop a next generation of thermoelectric generator, a technology that creates electricity from waste heat. While thermoelectrics is not a new technology, it has been limited by technical challenges and material performance limitations. This research focuses on materials that would be of use at higher temperatures, found in applications such as automotive exhaust and industrial waste heat.

“I would like to thank NYSERDA for their continued support of this important work,” said George Bilkey, president of TAM. “With assistance from NYSERDA, we have been able to assemble a talented team from across New York State that will help us develop a real-world thermoelectric application.”

The total budget for the project is $1 million and is scheduled over 21 months. TAM and its subcontractors will reportedly contribute a cost-share of 50% to the budget. TAM is subcontracting to Alfred University, the Rochester Institute of Technology, and ENrG Inc.

For more information, visit www.tamceramics.com.