Optimization of the thermoelectric performance of PEDOT:PSS–tetrahedrite (Cu12+xSb4S13) nanocomposites
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: The unique properties of conductive polymers, such as flexibility, ease of processing, and low toxicity, make them highly promising for thermoelectric applications. A key strategy to enhance their thermoelectric performance while preserving these advantages is the development of polymer-inorganic composites.In this study, we introduce an innovative approach to both material composition and processing by designing PEDOT:PSS-based composites incorporating Cu₁₂₊ₓSb₄S₁₃ tetrahedrite (TH) nanoparticles. The TH phase, synthesized via a novel solvothermal method using 1-(2-aminoethyl)piperazine as a solvent, exhibits ultra-low thermal conductivity (0.25 W·m⁻¹·K⁻¹ at 300 K) and a tunable Seebeck coefficient (150–400 μV·K⁻¹) depending on Cu content.The composites were fabricated with TH volume fractions ranging from 2% to 98%. Initially prepared as pastes, they were subsequently shaped and consolidated into pellets using pulsed electric current sintering (PECS) at 393 K. For comparison, thin films with a higher polymer content were produced via drop-coating onto glass substrates.The incorporation of TH nanoparticles led to a simultaneous increase in the Seebeck coefficient and a reduction in thermal conductivity. The highest ZT value of 0.12 was achieved at 473 K for a composite containing 85.7% TH by volume. These results demonstrate the potential of PEDOT:PSS-tetrahedrite composites as non-brittle, mechanically robust thermoelectric materials with versatile processing options for specialized applications.
Source: Chemical Engineering Journal
Institutions: AGH University of Krakow, Jagiellonian University
Language: English
Subfield: Materials Chemistry
Field: Materials Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $4,830
Funder: Fundacja na rzecz Nauki Polskiej
Award: G5391610351
OpenAlex ID: W4410119325