Reconfigurable intelligent surfaces with thermal energy harvesting

Reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS) have emerged as transformative technology in wireless communications, capable of dynamically manipulating electromagnetic waves to enhance signal propagation and communication efficiency. Integrating thermal energy harvesting into RIS introduces a novel dimension, enabling these surfaces to not only optimise communication links but also harness ambient thermal energy for sustainable power generation. This abstract explores the integration of thermal energy harvesting mechanisms with RIS, discussing the technological challenges, opportunities, and potential applications. By leveraging thermal gradients in the environment, RIS-based systems can achieve dual functionality, significantly advancing the feasibility of autonomous and energy-efficient wireless networks. This abstract provides a foundational overview and highlights future research directions in this evolving field at the intersection of wireless communications and renewable energy technologies.