Thermoelectric properties of Zn 5Sb 4In 2-δ (δ=0.15)

Y. Wu, A. P. Litvinchuk, E. S. Toberer, G. J. Snyder, Nathan Newman, A. Fischer, E. W. Scheidt, W. Scherer, U. Hussermann

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

6 Scopus citations

Abstract

The polymorphic intermetallic compound Zn 5Sb 4In 2-δ (δ= 0.15(3)) shows promising thermoelectric properties at low temperatures, approaching a figure of merit ZT of 0.3 at 300 K. However, thermopower and electrical resistivity changes discontinuously at around 220 K. Measurement of the specific heat locates the previously unknown temperature of the order-disorder phase transition at around 180 K. Investigation of the charge carrier concentration and mobility by Hall measurements and infrared reflection spectroscopy indicate a mixed conduction behavior and the activation of charge carriers at temperatures above 220 K. Zn 5Sb 4In 2-δ has a low thermal stability, and at temperatures above 470 K samples decompose into a mixture of Zn, InSb, and Zn 4Sb 3.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Article number123712
JournalJournal of Applied Physics
Volume111
Issue number12
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 15 2012

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Physics and Astronomy

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