Bulk PbTe-CdTe nanocomposite for thermoelectric energy recovery systems

Abstract

Bulk PbTe-CdTe nanocomposite for thermoelectric energy recovery systems

Thermoelectric generators and coolers are structurally simple devices that can directly convert heat into electricity (generators) and vice versa (coolers). Such converters operate on the basis of two thermoelectric effects discovered by Seebeck and Peltier in the first half of 19th century, utilizing the ability of electrons to simultaneously transfer heat and electric charge. Since electrons are the only moving elements of such devices, they operate silently and trouble-free for many years. Thus, thermoelectric devices appear as an alternative to others unconventional methods of energy managing and harvesting. During the talk, a patented method of obtaining a thermoelectric semiconductor nanocomposite PbTe-CdTe in the form of a bulk material doped with Bi, I or Na, intended for the production of mid-temperature thermoelectric energy generators, will be presented. The method takes advantage of the extremely low mutual solubility of both semiconductors, resulting from their different crystal structure, and is based on a specifically designed Bridgman growth procedure.

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