11 - Synthesis method of thermoelectrics

Abstract

Synthesizing high-quality thermoelectric materials is significant to ensure high performance. In this chapter, we summarize different types of synthesis methods for thermoelectric materials. Starting with the melting methods, we introduce the effect of tunning the synthesis conditions to enhance thermoelectric performance in representative thermoelectric materials. Afterward, we present the ball milling method, which is featured energy-saving and nanoscale grains advantages. Due to the achieved nanoscale grain boundaries, thermal conductivities were reduced in the as-obtained thermoelectric materials. Then, solution synthesis methods are described to synthesize nanostructured thermoelectric materials. Moreover, we introduce the high-pressure synthesis method, in which pressure has been an important parameter to achieve high thermoelectric performance. Finally, we introduce the deposition method, including electrodeposition and chemical vapor deposition.