Multicomponent chalcogenides with diamond-like structure as thermoelectrics

Abstract

Due to the advantages of environment-friendly constituent elements, relatively large Seebeck coefficient, and low thermal conductivity, multicomponent diamond-like chalcogenides (MDLCs), such as CuInTe2, Cu2SnSe3, Cu3SbSe4 and Cu2ZnSnSe4, have attracted intensive attention for energy conversion as promising thermoelectric (TE) materials in recent years. This chapter provides an overview of research on MDLCs in TE field. Commencing with the crystal structure and phase transition of MDLCs, we will introduce electronic structure and lattice dynamics of MDLCs through some typical TE compounds. We then discuss new methods (i.e., band engineering, entropy engineering, in situ displacement reaction, and mosaic nanostructure) developed in MDLCs for optimizing TE performance. Finally, in addition to the performance of TE device, investigations on stability and mechanical properties of MDLCs are also presented. For future practical applications of this potential material system, the problems needed to be solved and possible directions to further promote TE performance are also explored in the outlook part.