Abstract
Single phase <TEX>$Zn_4Sb_3$</TEX> with <TEX>$98.5\%$</TEX> of theoretical density was successfully produced by direct hot pressing of elemental powders containing <TEX>$1.2 at\%$</TEX> excess Zn for compensating the evaporation during the process. Temperature dependences of thermoelectric properties were investigated from 4 K to 300 K. Seebeck coefficient, electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity as well as thermoelectric figure of merit showed the discontinuity in variation at 242K, indicating the <TEX>$\alpha-\beta$</TEX>, phase transformation. Interestingly, it was found that lattice thermal conductivity by phonons is dominant in total thermal conductivity of <TEX>$\alpha-\beta$</TEX>. Therefore, it is expected that thermoelectric properties can be improved by reduction of lattice thermal conductivity inducing lattice scattering centers by doping and solid solution.
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