Single-atom thermoelectric materials: a new opportunity

Abstract

Single-atom materials show great potential in the field of thermoelectrics due to their distinguishing features such as maximum atom utilization efficiency, unique electronic structure, guest−host interactions, and a tunable coordination environment. Herein, the concept of single-atom thermoelectric materials is presented. Thereafter, we introduce characterization techniques including high-angle annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM) and X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy (XAFS) for identifying the specific coordination environment of single atoms. Furthermore, a typical work demonstrating the effect of single atoms on the thermoelectric transport properties of Bi2S3 is provided. Finally, we propose possible future development paths for single-atom thermoelectric materials. This paper provides a reference for further studies of single-atom thermoelectric materials.