Thermoelectric Properties of Composite PbTe – PbSnS2 Materials

Abstract

AbstractThe thermoelectric (Pb1-mSnmTe)1-x(PbS)x where m = 0.05 and x = 0.08 has been shown to produce PbS nanostructures that effectively scatter phonons, enhancing ZT. As Sn substitution is increased, a new phase of PbSnS2 precipitates. We find that incorporation of PbSnS2 in PbTe results in a significant reduction in lattice thermal conductivity around 0.6 W/mK at room temperature. We present preliminary characterization and thermoelectric properties.