Inverse design in nanoscale heat transport via interpolating interfacial phonon transmission

We introduce a methodology for density-based topology optimization of non-Fourier thermal transport in nanostructures, based upon adjoint-based sensitivity analysis of the phonon Boltzmann transport equation (BTE) and a novel material interpolation technique, the transmission interpolation model (TIM). The key challenge in BTE optimization is handling the interplay between real- and momentum-resolved material properties. By parameterizing the material density with an interfacial transmission coefficient, TIM is able to recover the hard-wall and no-interface limits, while guaranteeing a smooth transition between void and solid regions. We first use our approach to tailor the effective thermal conductivity tensor of a periodic nanomaterial; then, we maximize classical phonon size effects under constrained diffusive transport, identifying a promising new thermoelectric material design. Our method enables the systematic optimization of materials for heat management and conversion and, more broadly, the design of devices where diffusive transport is not valid.

Automated summary

In this study, a methodology for density-based topology optimization of non-Fourier thermal transport in nanostructures is introduced. It utilizes adjoint-based sensitivity analysis of the phonon Boltzmann transport equation (BTE) and a novel material interpolation technique called the transmission interpolation model (TIM). The approach is able to handle the interplay between real- and momentum-resolved material properties by parameterizing the material density with an interfacial transmission coefficient. This methodology allows for the systematic optimization of materials for heat management and conversion, as well as the design of devices where diffusive transport is not valid.