Abstract: A thermoelectric device includes at least one first heat exchange member. The first heat exchange member includes a conductive body having top and bottom surfaces joined by side surfaces. The top and bottom surfaces include a thin film of active material deposited thereon. The active material includes one of P-type and N-type thermoelectric materials positioned oppositely on the top and bottom surfaces. The thin film of active material includes an anti-diffusion coating deposited thereon. The anti-diffusion coating includes a joining layer deposited thereon. The conductive body of the first heat exchange member includes heat transfer passages formed therein receiving a heat transfer liquid. At least one second heat exchange member includes a conductive body having top and bottom surfaces joined by side surfaces. The top and bottom surfaces including a joining layer deposited thereon. The conductive body of the second member includes heat transfer surfaces formed therein receiving a heat transfer medium.

Abstract: A thermoelectric device (the TED) of the present invention is used as a generator application and a heat pump application. The TED transfers heat from one side of the device to the other side from cold to hot, with consumption of electrical energy. In a functioning mode of the TED, direct current runs through the TED and heat is moved from one side of the TED to another side of the TED, wherein the TED is used either for heating or for cooling applications, generation of electricity and/or transfer of heat in heating and refrigerating applications.