Energy-generating smart concrete for sustainable architecture

Abstract

The present invention relates to a thermoelectric concrete façade system designed for harvesting, storing, and utilizing solar thermal energy within building components. The proposed system comprises a concrete panel containing dark pigments to enhance solar heat absorption and one or more embedded thermoelectric modules that convert temperature differences between the outer and inner surfaces of the façade into electrical energy through the Seebeck effect. The generated electricity is directed to an integrated energy management circuit, which regulates charging of a rechargeable battery and subsequently supplies low-power electrical loads—such as LED lighting, environmental sensors, or monitoring devices—during periods of low solar radiation. By integrating renewable energy technologies directly into structural materials, this invention provides an innovative solution for creating energy self-sufficient building façades. The system reduces grid electricity consumption, enhances structural durability, and contributes to sustainable architecture for both urban and industrial applications.

Description

[0001]Description Title of Invention [Energy-GeneraƟng Smart Concrete for Sustainable Architecture] Technical Field [This invention is generally related to the field of construction materials and sustainable architectural engineering. More particularly, it pertains to the development of a smart concrete composite system designed for energy harvesting and thermal management in building façades. The invention combines thermoelectric technology with cement-based materials to create an active façade component capable of converting solar heat into usable electrical energy. It also includes an energy storage unit and a control module for regulating thermal and electrical performance. This technology belongs to the broader area of energy-efficient and self-sustaining construction systems, offering practical applications in urban architecture, infrastructure, and net-zero energy building design. The system contributes to reducing building energy demand while maintaining structural integrity and aesthetic value. ] Background The invention relates to the field of building-integrated energy technologies, and more specifically to thermoelectric concrete façades capable of generating, storing, and supplying electricity for sustainable building applications. The construction industry remains one of the main sources of global energy consumption and CO₂ emissions. A significant share of this energy demand arises from building envelopes such as façades, which are typically passive components serving only protective or aesthetic purposes. Recent innovations, including building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) and solar thermal collectors, have demonstrated potential benefits, yet they still face persistent challenges — dependence on direct sunlight, efficiency losses under temperature fluctuations, and limited compatibility with architectural design. Thermoelectric systems offer an alternative by directly converting temperature gradients into electric power through the Seebeck effect. Although this principle has been successfully applied in aerospace and industrial sectors, its implementation in construction remains minimal and largely experimental. Existing prototypes are often costly, fragile, or impractical for large- scale integration into standard building materials. Concrete, being the most widely used material in modern construction, provides an ideal platform for embedding energy systems due to its high thermal mass, durability, and low cost. However, no existing façade systems have yet combined thermoelectric modules, energy storage components, and control electronics within a single concrete structure capable of autonomously harvesting and utilizing solar heat. This invention addresses that gap by introducing a dark-pigmented thermoelectric concrete façade equipped with integrated storage and automatic energy management. The proposed system transforms façades from passive barriers into active energy-generating surfaces, enhancing building sustainability while maintaining structural and aesthetic integrity. Summary of the Invention The invention presents a thermoelectric concrete façade system that actively harvests solar heat and converts it into electrical energy using embedded thermoelectric modules. In contrast to traditional façades, which serve merely protective or aesthetic purposes, this system functions as an active energy interface between the building and its surroundings. The façade incorporates dark-pigmented concrete to enhance solar absorption. Heat collected at the surface is conducted toward thermoelectric modules embedded within the concrete body. These modules operate on the Seebeck effect, generating electrical current whenever a temperature gradient exists between the inner and outer layers of the façade. The generated power is directed to a control and regulation circuit, which manages the charging of an integrated rechargeable battery. Stored energy can then be used to power low-demand electrical systems such as LED lighting, sensors, or environmental monitoring units, even in the absence of sunlight. Empirical studies indicate that urban façades can exhibit temperature gradients of 15–25°C between sunlit and shaded zones during peak hours [(Santamouris, 2015; Guan et al., 2020)]. Thermoelectric modules operating within this range can generate a practical amount of power, especially when deployed over large façade surfaces. Integrating the modules within the concrete matrix enhances durability, reduces exposure to weathering, and minimizes maintenance compared with conventional surface-mounted technologies. A smart energy management unit is included to optimize the balance between energy harvesting, storage, and release. This unit continuously monitors temperature gradients, battery charge levels, and load demands to maximize system efficiency. The façade panels are modular and prefabricated, allowing straightforward integration into both new and existing building projects. The technical advantage of this invention lies in transforming a conventional concrete façade into a multifunctional building envelope that contributes directly to a building’s energy performance while maintaining its structural integrity. The system supports the development of Net-Zero Energy Buildings (NZEBs) and aligns with global sustainability objectives by reducing dependence on external electricity sources for essential lighting and auxiliary systems. Technical Problem Conventional building façades are largely passive components that provide protection and aesthetics but make no contribution to a building’s energy performance. In recent years, attempts have been made to integrate photovoltaic panels and solar thermal collectors into architectural surfaces; however, these systems remain constrained by several practical and technical limitations. Their operation depends heavily on direct solar radiation, causing sharp drops in output under cloudy conditions or partial shading. In dense urban environments, high surface temperatures further reduce efficiency due to the urban heat island effect. In addition, the installation and maintenance of such systems—particularly on vertical façades or existing structures—often require complex assemblies, high costs, and periodic servicing. Despite the progress of thermoelectric technologies in aerospace and industrial sectors, their adaptation to large-scale construction has not been achieved. Major obstacles include poor compatibility with cementitious materials, insufficient temperature differentials within building envelopes, and the absence of an integrated energy storage and control mechanism capable of managing the generated power effectively. Consequently, the core technical problem addressed by this invention lies in the lack of a unified façade system that can autonomously capture low-grade solar heat, convert it directly into electricity, store the generated energy, and redistribute it on demand for building services—while maintaining the structural and aesthetic roles of concrete. Solution to the Problem The invention provides a thermoelectric concrete façade system that transforms conventional building envelopes into multifunctional energy-generating and storing elements. The solution combines advanced concrete technology, thermoelectric energy conversion, and smart energy management into a single integrated structure. The façade panel is composed of dark-pigmented concrete containing magnetite (Fe₃O₄) and micro-silica additives, formulated to enhance heat absorption and thermal conductivity while maintaining mechanical strength. This optimized mix design ensures stable temperature gradients between the sun-exposed outer layer and the cooler inner surface of the panel. Within this concrete body, a grid of thermoelectric modules—based on bismuth telluride (Bi₂Te₃) and antimony telluride (Sb₂Te₃) semiconductors—is embedded in a layered configuration. Each module generates electricity by utilizing the temperature difference across the façade through the Seebeck effect. For a typical façade panel, approximately 625 miniature modules (25×25 per m²) are integrated, providing sufficient output for low-voltage applications. The generated current is directed through nickel-copper conductive paths to a smart control circuit that regulates energy flow, prevents reverse current, and manages the charging of a built- in lithium-ion storage battery. The stored energy is later used to power low-consumption devices, such as LED illumination, façade sensors, or environmental monitoring systems. A microprocessor-based controller monitors real-time variables, including solar radiation, surface temperature, ΔT gradient, and battery status, automatically optimizing the operation for maximum efficiency. This enables autonomous function even under intermittent sunlight or varying environmental conditions. Structurally, the panels retain full load-bearing capacity and can be prefabricated and modular, allowing installation on both new constructions and retrofit projects. This system thus addresses the previous limitations of photovoltaic and thermal panels by introducing a durable, self-sustaining, and architecturally integrable façade that contributes directly to the building’s energy balance. The proposed design effectively solves the earlier technical problems by: Utilizing dark-pigmented thermally conductive concrete to maximize usable ΔT; Embedding thermoelectric modules within the concrete to convert heat to electricity efficiently; Incorporating internal storage and control circuits to manage harvested power; Creating a system that functions passively, without external mechanical components, maintenance, or dependency on high solar intensity. Detailed Description of the Invention The present invention relates to a thermoelectric concrete façade system capable of harvesting, storing, and supplying electrical energy by exploiting temperature differences across the façade structure. The system integrates cement-based thermal composites, thermoelectric semiconductors, and smart power management within a single modular concrete panel. 1. Material Composition The façade panel is fabricated from thermally conductive, dark-pigmented concrete with the following optimized composition: Component Percentage (by weight of cement) e) This formulation increases thermal conductivity from λ ≈ 1.2 to 2.0 W / m·K, and enhances solar absorption due to the black pigment effect of Fe₃O₄. The compressive strength remains above 45 MPa, ensuring structural safety for façade use. 2. Thermoelectric Module Array Within the concrete matrix, an array of thermoelectric modules based on bismuth telluride (Bi₂Te₃) and antimony telluride (Sb₂Te₃) semiconductors is embedded. Each module operates according to the Seebeck effect, where a voltage is produced across two dissimilar materials subjected to a temperature gradient: ^^ = ^^ × ^^^^where: ^ ^^= voltage output (V) ^ ^^= Seebeck coefficient (≈ 200 μV / K) ^ ^^^^= temperature difference between exterior and interior surfaces (K) With a typical ΔT of 20°C, the output of each module is approximately: ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ = ^^. ^^^^^^^^ × ^^^^ = ^^. ^^ mVEach module has a resistance of approximately ^^ = ^^. ^^ ^^, yielding electrical power:^^^^^^^^^^^^^^= ^^^^(^^ × ^^^^ି^^)^^^^ =^^. ^^ = ^^. ^^ × ^^^^ି^^ WFor a façade with 625 modules per m², the gross power output is approximately: ^^^^^^^^^^^^ = ^^^^^^ × ^^. ^^ × ^^^^ି^^ = ^^. ^^ W / m²Through series-parallel configurations, voltage and current can be adjusted to deliver 4–6 W / m², depending on ΔT and solar intensity. 3. Heat Transfer and Structural Design The heat flux across the concrete layer is expressed as: ^^ = ^^^^^^^^ × ^^^^^^ where ^^= panel thickness (m) and ^^^^^^^^= effective thermal conductivity of the composite.For ^^^^^^^^ = ^^. ^^ W / m\cdotpKand ^^ = ^^. ^^^^ m, a ΔT of 24°C yields:^^ = ^^. ^^ × ^^^^^^. ^^^^ = ^^^^^^ W / m²This corresponds to typical flux on urban façades, confirming that the panel efficiently maintains the required temperature gradient. 4. Electrical Storage and Control The produced current is collected through nickel-copper conductive paths and directed into a smart control circuit equipped with: ^ Full-wave rectifier ^ Voltage stabilizer ^ MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) algorithm ^ Overcharge and reverse-current protection The regulated output charges a 12V / 10–20Ah lithium-ion battery, integrated into a ventilated back enclosure. The battery supplies power for LED lighting (12V, 5W), environmental sensors, and wireless control modules, enabling autonomous façade operation even during night or cloudy conditions. — Concrete Façade System showing the integration of thermoelectric modules, power management, and storage components. As shown in FIG.1, solar radiation (A) is absorbed by the outer concrete panel (1), producing a temperature gradient across the thermoelectric generator modules (2). The modules convert this heat differential into direct current (DC) power, which is regulated by the power management system (5) comprising a maximum power point tracker (MPPT) and a voltage booster (BOOST). The generated power is then stored in a rechargeable battery (6) and can supply low-power devices (7) such as LEDs or IoT sensors Concrete Mix Design and Material Composition To optimize the thermoelectric performance and structural strength of the smart concrete façade, two distinct concrete mixtures were developed: (1) an outer heat-absorbing layer, and (2) an inner structural layer bonded to the thermoelectric modules. Both layers were formulated to balance thermal conductivity, compressive strength, and electrical insulation while maintaining compatibility with embedded thermoelectric and control systems. Table 1 — Mix Design of the Outer (Heat-Absorbing) Concrete Layer Material Component Symbol Proportion by Function / Description Weight (%) es y, d n d th d Superplasticizer SP 0.8 Enhances flow without (Polycarboxylate-based) excess water at lar Technical Description of the Outer Layer The outer layer of the façade is engineered to act as both a solar heat absorber and thermal conductor. The inclusion of magnetite powder (Fe₃O₄) significantly enhances the material’s absorptivity, increasing surface temperature by 8–12°C under standard solar irradiance (800–1000 W / m²). The dark pigmentation further maximizes the Seebeck potential across the thermoelectric junctions. Measured parameters for this layer include: ^ Thermal conductivity: 2.1–2.3 W / m·K ^ Compressive strength: 46–50 MPa (28 days) ^ Density: 2400–2500 kg / m³ This optimized composition ensures an efficient temperature gradient for continuous thermoelectric conversion. Table 2 — Mix Design of the Inner (Structural and Insulating) Concrete Layer Material Component Symbol Proportion by Function / Description Wei ht (%) es th d al es d Coarse Aggregate (Gravel, 4– CAgg 17.0 Ensures structural load- 8 mm) bearing capacity t, nd Technical Description of the Inner Layer The inner layer provides mechanical support and thermal buffering to maintain a steady temperature difference across the façade. By incorporating expanded perlite, the thermal conductivity of this layer decreases to 0.9–1.1 W / m·K, ensuring an effective temperature gradient between the hot (outer) and cold (inner) sides of the thermoelectric system. Measured parameters: ^ Thermal conductivity: 1.0 W / m·K ^ Compressive strength: 40–45 MPa ^ Density: 2100–2200 kg / m³ This layer also serves as a stable base for the ceramic substrate and wiring of thermoelectric modules. Combined System Behavior When both layers are bonded around thermoelectric modules, the façade exhibits a stable temperature differential of 15–25°C, generating an average voltage of 2.5–3.2 V per module set and 4–6 W / m² under standard operating conditions. This energy is then routed through a microcontroller-based energy management system, which stores it in a rechargeable battery and redistributes it to low-power devices (e.g., LED façade lighting, IoT sensors). 5. Intelligent Management and Monitoring A microcontroller unit (MCU) continuously monitors the following: ^ Surface temperature (T₁) and inner temperature (T₂) ^ Voltage and current from module array ^ Battery state of charge (SOC) ^ Ambient irradiation and humidity A feedback algorithm dynamically adjusts the energy harvesting rate and switching to optimize storage efficiency. Real-time data can be transmitted wirelessly for performance analytics and predictive maintenance. 6. System Efficiency Overall conversion efficiency (η) is estimated as: ^^ =^^^^^^^^^^ × ^^^^^^ × ^^^^^^For ^^^^^^^^ = ^^ W / m²and ^^^^^^ = ^^ =^^ ^^^^^^× ^^^^^^ = ^^. ^^^^^^%Although the value seems modest, the system continuously produces power without moving parts, maintenance, or dependence on full sunlight, making it practical and sustainable for urban environments. 7. Manufacturing and Application Panels are prefabricated, with thermoelectric modules placed before concrete casting.Curing is performed at ^^^^ ± ^^°^^and 95% RH for 28 days.Each panel (1.2×1.2 m) can be installed on new buildings or retrofitted façades using modular frames. The system lifespan exceeds 25 years, requiring minimal maintenance. Claims 1. A thermoelectric concrete façade system comprising: ^ a façade panel formed of dark-pigmented, thermally conductive concrete containing 10–15% Fe₃O₄ and 7–10% micro-silica by weight of cement; ^ an array of thermoelectric modules embedded within the concrete matrix, each module composed of Bi₂Te₃ and Sb₂Te₃ semiconductors operating according to the Seebeck effect; ^ a network of nickel–copper conductive paths connecting said modules in a series– parallel configuration; ^ a smart control circuit configured to regulate power flow, perform MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking), and manage charge / discharge of a rechargeable battery; ^ and a lithium-ion energy storage unit housed within the rear enclosure of the panel. 2. The façade system of claim 1, wherein the concrete composition exhibits a thermal conductivity between 1.8 and 2.2 W / m·K and a compressive strength greater than 45 MPa. 3. The façade system of claim 1, wherein each thermoelectric module has dimensions of 4 × 4 × 3 mm, and approximately 625 modules are embedded per square meter of façade surface. 4. The façade system of claim 1, wherein the Seebeck coefficient (^^) of the thermoelectric modules is approximately 200 μV / K, producing an output voltage of 4–5 mV per module for ΔT = 20°C. 5. The façade system of claim 1, wherein the generated electrical power (^^) follows the relation: ^^ =^^^^^^ where ^^is the generated voltage and ^^is resistance of the module (0.1 Ω). 6. The façade system of claim 1, wherein the total electrical output of the panel ranges between 4 and 6 W / m², depending on solar intensity and temperature gradient. 7. The façade system of claim 1, further comprising a microcontroller unit (MCU) configured to monitor surface and internal temperature, battery charge, and irradiation levels, and to adjust operation via a feedback algorithm. 8. The façade system of claim 1, wherein the energy management unit powers low-voltage building components, including LED façade lighting, environmental sensors, and IoT monitoring devices. 9. The façade system of claim 1, wherein the panels are modular and prefabricated, with integrated interlocking edges allowing installation on new or existing buildings. 10. The façade system of claim 1, wherein the overall system efficiency (η) is defined by: ^^ =^^^^^^^^^^ × ^^^^^^ and ranges between 0.5–0.7%, contributing to energy reduction in Net-Zero Energy Buildings (NZEBs). Effect of the Invention The invention provides a structurally integrated, energy-generating façade system that overcomes the limitations of traditional passive building envelopes. It eliminates reliance on external solar panels or mechanical devices by embedding thermoelectric conversion and energy storage directly into the building’s structural material. Key effects include: ^ Continuous generation of renewable electricity without moving parts or sunlight concentration. ^ Reduction of façade surface temperature and mitigation of urban heat island effects. ^ Improved building energy efficiency, with 8–10% reduction in lighting-related power demand. ^ Increased material durability through stable heat dissipation. ^ Scalability and adaptability to different building types and climates. ^ Contribution to Net-Zero Energy and sustainable architecture targets through self- powered infrastructure. This innovation combines thermal physics, materials engineering, and smart energy management in a new hybrid system that transforms façades from passive shells into active energy devices. Technical Advantages The invention, titled “Energy-Generating Smart Concrete for Sustainable Architecture,” offers several significant technical advantages that distinguish it from existing façade and energy-harvesting systems. It merges material science, thermoelectric engineering, and architectural sustainability into a unified, multifunctional solution. 1. Integrated Energy Conversion within Structural Concrete Unlike conventional façades that rely on external solar panels or attached devices, this invention embeds thermoelectric modules directly within the concrete matrix. This integration enables direct conversion of temperature gradients into electricity without compromising structural performance. The system transforms passive building envelopes into active energy components. 2. High Thermal Efficiency and Energy Harvesting Capability The dark-pigmented, thermally conductive concrete enhances solar absorption and maintains a 15–25°C temperature differential between inner and outer layers. With a Seebeck coefficient of approximately 200 μV / K, the embedded modules achieve a power density of 4–6 W / m², representing a 25–30% improvement over comparable experimental systems. 3. Enhanced Structural and Thermal Performance The concrete composition—containing 10–15% magnetite (Fe₃O₄) and 7–10% micro- silica—increases both thermal conductivity (up to 2.2 W / m·K) and compressive strength (>45 MPa). This dual optimization ensures mechanical stability while improving heat transfer for energy generation. 4. Built-in Energy Storage and Smart Power Management The system integrates a lithium-ion battery unit and a microcontroller-based energy management circuit, capable of performing Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) and regulating charge / discharge cycles. This allows stable and autonomous operation, even under variable sunlight conditions, supporting low-power devices such as LED façade lighting and IoT monitoring systems. 5. Durability and Low Maintenance By embedding the thermoelectric modules within concrete rather than on its surface, the design provides mechanical protection against weathering, vandalism, and corrosion, significantly increasing system lifespan and reducing maintenance costs. 6. Compatibility with Existing Construction Methods The panels can be produced using conventional precast concrete manufacturing lines with minor modifications, ensuring industrial scalability and cost efficiency. This compatibility enables large-scale implementation without requiring new production infrastructure. 7. Contribution to Sustainable and Smart Architecture The invention contributes directly to Net-Zero Energy Building (NZEB) standards by generating on-site renewable energy, reducing façade-related CO₂ emissions by up to 40 kg / m² over a 50-year service life. It supports green certifications (LEED, BREEAM) and integrates seamlessly into smart building systems through autonomous control and energy feedback loops. 8. Scalability and Global Applicability The modular nature of the façade panels allows flexible scaling for different climates and architectural designs. The system performs efficiently in both hot, high-radiation regions and cold climates where large temperature gradients are present. 9. Economic and Environmental Benefits The invention provides a low-cost renewable energy alternative using existing materials and infrastructure. Estimated production costs of €65–80 per m² make it viable for mass deployment, offering both economic and environmental returns. Brief Description of Drawings FIG.1 is a schematic illustration of the Energy-Generating Smart Concrete Façade, showing the configuration of the outer heat-absorbing layer, the embedded thermoelectric modules, and the inner insulating concrete layer. The figure demonstrates the direction of heat transfer from the sun-exposed surface through the thermoelectric units and into the building’s energy management system. Table 1 presents the mix design and material composition of the outer (heat-absorbing) concrete layer, which includes Portland cement, fly ash, silica fume, and magnetite powder. These materials enhance the façade’s ability to absorb solar radiation and conduct heat efficiently to the thermoelectric modules. Table 2 shows the mix design and composition of the inner (structural and insulating) concrete layer, incorporating ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS) and expanded perlite. This configuration provides structural stability while maintaining thermal insulation, ensuring a continuous temperature gradient essential for thermoelectric energy generation. Examples Example 1 — Fabrication of the Thermoelectric Concrete Façade Panel A prototype façade panel was produced with overall dimensions of 600 mm × 600 mm × 80 mm. The structure consisted of two distinct concrete layers bonded around a set of embedded thermoelectric modules (type Bi₂Te₃–based, 20 × 20 × 4 mm). The outer layer was cast using the composition provided in Table 1, containing 22% Portland cement, 10% fly ash, 8% silica fume, and 12% magnetite powder to enhance thermal conductivity and solar absorptivity. The inner layer, prepared according to Table 2, used 25% Portland cement, 15% ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS), and 8% expanded perlite to provide insulation and maintain a temperature differential. Both layers were cast sequentially in a steel mold, with the thermoelectric modules positioned midway and connected via copper wiring to an external control and storage unit. After curing for 28 days at 25°C and 95% relative humidity, the panel achieved compressive strength of 45 MPa and density of 2,300 kg / m³. Example 2 — Measurement of Thermal Gradient and Power Output The fabricated panel was tested under simulated solar radiation of 900 W / m² for 5 hours. Temperature sensors were placed on both the outer (sun-exposed) and inner (shaded) surfaces to monitor the thermal gradient. Results showed that: ^ Outer surface temperature reached 58°C, ^ Inner surface stabilized at 32°C, ^ Resulting average temperature difference (ΔT) = 26°C. Under this gradient, the thermoelectric modules generated an average open-circuit voltage of 2.8 V per module and a power density of 5.4 W / m². When connected to the energy management unit, the system efficiently charged a 3.7 V, 2200 mAh Li-ion battery within 8 hours, which was subsequently used to power LED façade lighting for up to 10 hours during the night. Example 3 — Durability and Environmental Performance To evaluate long-term stability, the façade panels were subjected to 50 cycles of thermal fatigue between 15°C and 60°C. No visible cracking, delamination, or degradation of electrical performance was observed. Thermoelectric module efficiency retained 95% of its initial value, and the bonding between layers remained intact. A life-cycle emission analysis showed a 42% reduction in embodied carbon compared to conventional cement façades due to the use of fly ash, slag, and reduced cement content. This demonstrates the potential for large-scale deployment in Net-Zero Energy Buildings (NZEBs) and sustainable construction projects. Example 4 — Integration into Smart Building System A small-scale demonstration was conducted using three façade panels connected in series on an experimental wall segment. The combined system was linked to a microcontroller-based energy management unit (Arduino platform) equipped with temperature sensors, voltage monitoring, and wireless data transmission. The smart control system automatically optimized energy storage and LED usage based on light and temperature conditions. During testing, the panels collectively produced a peak voltage of 8.6 V and sustained an average of 14.5 W / m² under fluctuating solar exposure. Data collected over 10 days confirmed stable operation and automatic switching between charging and lighting modes. Example 5 — Simulation and Theoretical Validation Numerical modeling was performed using COMSOL Multiphysics® software to simulate the thermoelectric and thermal behavior of the façade system under various climatic conditions. The results validated experimental data, confirming that the optimized magnetite content and layer thickness (30 mm outer, 50 mm inner) produced the most stable ΔT and power output. Simulated monthly performance for a temperate climate (average solar irradiance 700–1000 W / m²) predicted annual energy generation of 21.4 kWh / m², equivalent to offsetting 15% of typical façade lighting demand in mid-rise buildings. Industrial Applicability The proposed thermoelectric energy-harvesting concrete façade system demonstrates wide industrial applicability across multiple sectors of the built environment and energy industry. The system combines structural performance, energy generation, and sustainability functions in a single modular product suitable for scalable manufacturing and integration into real- world projects. 1. Building and Construction Industry ^ The system is deployable as prefabricated façade panels in residential, commercial, and institutional buildings. ^ It provides dual functionality, offering both load-bearing capacity and renewable energy generation. ^ Applicable in green building certification programs such as LEED, BREEAM, and WELL. ^ Field testing shows potential to offset up to 8–10% of façade-related electrical consumption through continuous power generation. 2. Energy and Sustainability Sector ^ Enables on-site renewable energy production, reducing dependency on external electricity sources. ^ Suitable for Net-Zero Energy Buildings (NZEBs) and low-carbon architecture initiatives. ^ Integration with distributed energy management systems and building microgrids enhances urban energy resilience. ^ Expected contribution to carbon footprint reduction: 30–40 kg CO₂ / m² façade over a 50-year service life. 3. Smart Cities and Urban Infrastructure ^ Applicable to smart city developments and public infrastructure, supplying power for lighting, IoT sensors, and safety systems. ^ Enables autonomous façade-based lighting and monitoring networks requiring minimal maintenance. ^ Suitable for urban retrofits where installation of conventional photovoltaic panels is limited by space or aesthetics. 4. Industrial Facilities and Cold Regions ^ Effective in industrial plants, warehouses, and factories with large exposed surfaces and frequent heat gradients. ^ In cold climates, acts as a hybrid façade — simultaneously providing thermal insulation and energy harvesting, thus improving overall building energy efficiency by 12–15%. 5. Modular Manufacturing and Scalability ^ Compatible with standard precast concrete production lines; only minor process modifications are required for embedding thermoelectric modules. ^ Designed for mass production, allowing cost-effective deployment at approximately €65–80 / m² (estimated pilot-scale manufacturing cost). ^ Modular installation and standardized dimensions facilitate retrofitting, maintenance, and system scalability across various building types.

Claims

Claims Title: Thermoelectric Energy-Generating Concrete Façade System Claim 1 (Independent Claim) A thermoelectric concrete façade system designed for harvesting, converting, storing, and supplying solar heat energy, comprising: ^ a concrete panel containing dark pigments for enhanced absorption of solar radiation; ^ one or more embedded thermoelectric modules configured to convert temperature differences between the inner and outer surfaces of the panel into electrical energy through the Seebeck effect; ^ a control circuit including an MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) controller for optimizing power generation and managing energy flow; ^ an integrated rechargeable energy storage unit configured to store the generated electricity; and ^ electrical output terminals for supplying power to low-consumption loads, such as LED lighting, monitoring sensors, and environmental control devices. wherein the system is self-operational, modular, and adaptable for both new construction and retrofitting of existing buildings. Claim 2 The façade system of claim 1, wherein the concrete comprises a mixture of Portland cement, fly ash, micro-silica, and magnetite powder to improve thermal conductivity and mechanical strength. Claim 3 The façade system of claim 1, wherein the thermoelectric modules comprise bismuth telluride (Bi₂Te₃) and antimony telluride (Sb₂Te₃) semiconductor materials optimized for temperature gradients between 10°C and 30°C. Claim 4 The façade system of claim 1, further comprising a smart control unit configured to monitor temperature gradients, battery charge status, and load demands, and to autonomously manage the energy harvesting and release processes. Claim 5The façade system of claim 1, wherein the control circuit includes a current protection mechanism to prevent backflow during battery discharge. Claim 6 The façade system of claim 1, wherein the energy storage unit comprises a lithium-ion or solid-state battery integrated within the façade panel and encapsulated in a waterproof polymer casing. Claim 7 The façade system of claim 1, wherein each panel is prefabricated and modular, allowing for scalable installation in residential, commercial, or industrial buildings. Claim 8 The façade system of claim 1, wherein the generated energy is used to power autonomous building systems, including lighting, IoT sensors, ventilation devices, or emergency signage. Claim 9 (Independent Claim – Control System) A control and monitoring unit for use in a thermoelectric concrete façade system according to claim 1, comprising sensors for temperature detection, a power management microcontroller, and an adaptive algorithm configured to maintain energy efficiency through real-time thermal and electrical feedback. Claim 10 (Use Claim) Use of the thermoelectric concrete façade system of claim 1 for supplying renewable electrical energy in net-zero energy buildings (NZEBs), smart cities, and industrial facilities exposed to solar radiation.

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