Enhancement of the thermoelectric performance of CuInTe2 via SnO2 in situ replacement

Abstract

In situ induced nanostructure is employed as an alternative way to enhance the thermoelectric performance of p-type CuInTe2 based thermoelectric materials in this work. Dispersive In2O3 nanoparticles are formed in the samples with SnO2 by virtue of the in situ replacement of SnO2 and CuInTe2. As a result, an obvious reduction in the thermal conductivity has been achieved due to the intensive scattering of phonon by the in situ formed In2O3 nanoparticles. In addition, the power factor of CuInTe2 is less effected by SnO2 additive. Eventually, an enhanced ZT of 1.1 at 823 K has been achieved for the CuInTe2–0.5% SnO2 sample.