Recent Developments in β-Zn4Sb3 Based Thermoelectric Compounds

Abstract

Thermoelectricity has been recognized as an environmentally friendly energy conversion technology due to its ability to directly achieve conversion between heat and electricity for a long time. β- Zn 4 Sb 3 has attracted considerable interest as promising thermoelectric material in the moderate temperature range (500 K-900 K), which is the temperature range of most industrial waste heat sources. In this paper, first we present the structure of β- Zn 4 Sb 3 and the traditional doping strategy used to enhance its performance. Next, we review the details of some new methods utilized for improving the thermoelectric properties of β- Zn 4 Sb 3 and its thermal stability as well as reliability. Finally, the review finishes with highlighting some promising strategies for future research directions in the material.