Abstract
The search for alternative energy sources is at the forefront of applied research. In this context, thermoelectricity, i.e., direct conversion of thermal into electrical energy, plays an important role, particularly for exploitation of waste heat. Materials for such applications should exhibit thermoelectric potential and mechanical stability. PbTe-based compounds include well-known n-type and p-type compounds for thermoelectric applications in the 50°C to 600°C temperature range. This paper is concerned with the mechanical and transport properties of p-type Pb0.5Sn0.5Te:Te and PbTe samples, both of which have a hole concentration of ∼1 × 1020 cm−3. The ZT values of PbTe were found to be higher than those of Pb0.5Sn0.5Te:Te, and they exhibited a maximal value of 0.8 compared with 0.5 for Pb0.5Sn0.5Te:Te at 450°C. However, the microhardness value of 49 HV found for Pb0.5Sn0.5Te:Te was closer to that of the mechanically stable n-type PbTe (30 HV) than to that of PbTe (71 HV). Thus, although lower ZT values were obtained, from a mechanical point of view Pb0.5Sn0.5Te:Te is preferable over PbTe for practical applications.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
