Toward a Consensus Characterization Protocol for Organic Thermoelectrics

Abstract

As the field of organic thermoelectrics advances toward maturity, an accurate and standardized reporting of performance metrics becomes essential to drive further progress and assess real-world viability. The common geometric form factors and material properties (conductivity, anisotropy, stability, etc.) differ from those of conventional bulk inorganic systems, and thus specific recommendations may apply. Herein, we compile prevalent points of concern in the reporting of thermoelectric performance for organic materials and devices. Moreover, we propose a list of critical factors and metrics that should be explicitly documented when reporting the performance of novel organic thermoelectric materials or devices.