Barbara Wacker

Title: Innovator Barbara Wacker: Pioneering Nanostructured Thermoelectric Solutions

Introduction

Barbara Wacker, based in Saratoga, California, is a prominent inventor focused on advancing thermoelectric technology. With a total of two patents to her name, Wacker has made significant contributions to the field through her innovative solutions, enhancing the efficiency of thermoelectric elements and materials used for heat management in solid-state devices.

Latest Patents

Wacker's latest patents include groundbreaking approaches in nanostructured thermoelectric elements and carbon nanotube-based thermal interface materials. Her first patent describes the process of creating nanostructured thermoelectric elements using planar uniwafer processing methods. This invention involves generating either n-type or p-type thermoelectric uniwafer structures with embedded nanostructure material within a low thermal conductivity fill material. The invention further outlines methods for cutting the uniwafer structure into chip structures and surrounds them with fill material, paving the way for the assembly of efficient thermoelectric modules.

The second patent focuses on carbon nanotube-based structures designed to enhance heat removal from solid-state devices. This innovative thermal interface material consists of a copper substrate with a catalyst on top, enriched with a layer of carbon nanotubes oriented perpendicular to the substrate. Characterized by a specific Raman spectrum and low thermal resistance, this technology significantly improves the thermal performance of solid-state devices.

Career Highlights

Throughout her career, Barbara Wacker has worked with leading companies, including Alphabet Energy, Inc. and Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Her expertise in thermoelectric technologies has enabled her to drive innovation in these high-tech environments, enhancing the functionality and efficiency of devices across various sectors.

Collaborations

Wacker has collaborated with notable professionals in her field, including Mario Aguirre and Carlos Dangelo. These partnerships not only illustrate her ability to work effectively within teams but also highlight her contributions to the advancement of thermoelectric solutions through shared insights and expertise.

Conclusion

Barbara Wacker's pioneering inventions in nanostructured thermoelectric materials and thermal interface technologies position her as a key figure in the innovation landscape. By focusing on enhancing thermal efficiency and solid-state device performance, Wacker continues to influence the field of thermoelectrics, contributing to advancements that have the potential to impact various industries significantly.