Effect of the Directional Crystallization Obtained by the Bridgman Method on the Thermoelectric Properties of Bi2Te3
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Bi2Te3-based alloys are widely employed in the fabrication of thermoelectric modules for low- and medium-temperature applications. This paper investigates a novel approach to the production of structure-oriented thermoelectric materials, comparing the results with those obtained from polycrystalline materials synthesized via powder metallurgy. The strength properties of thermoelectric materials produced from metal powders are much lower than those produced by directional crystallization methods. As anticipated, samples exhibiting an oriented structure, approaching monocrystalline properties, demonstrated superior performance. Furthermore, directional crystallization technology in a Bridgman furnace was investigated, using the LMC (liquid metal cooling) method, which facilitates the achievement of the desired alloy microstructure. The most favorable results were achieved in a sample produced through directional crystallization in a Bridgman apparatus specifically designed for this research. While all fabricated samples exhibited comparable performance, a sample possessing an oriented crystal structure exhibited the highest ZT parameter of 0.5 at a temperature of 520K. This research highlights the potential of structure-oriented thermoelectric materials for enhanced performance in thermoelectric devices.
Source: Archives of Foundry Engineering
Authors: K. Bracka-Kęsek, B. Rafałowski, D. Kopyciński
Institution: AGH University of Krakow
Language: Polish
Subfield: Materials Chemistry
Field: Materials Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7117570497