RECENT PROGRESS ON OXIDE THERMOELECTRIC MATERIALS AND DEVICES

Abstract

Abstract Thermoelectric generators are mostly consistent of materials with n- and p-type conductivity, which are electrically connected in serious and thermally in parallel, and as such, they produce the electric power when exposed to a thermal gradient. The work principle is based on the Seebeck effect, and the efficiency of the constitutive materials are described by the figure-of-merit. Therefore, materials with high and S combined with a low will make a positive effect on TEG performance. For high-temperature applications the state-of-the-art metal-based thermoelectric devices are ruled out due to oxidation and melting. Because of their stability at elevated temperatures, oxides become a favorable choice. The efficiencies of oxides and oxide-based TEGs are still insufficient for commercial purpose and development of oxides with improved thermoelectric properties is demanded. In this review, some of the state-of-the-art of oxide-based thermoelectric materials and devices will be highlighted, followed by a discussion on the challenges and advantages of oxide-based TEGs. Our recent results related to improved material properties and a promising novel design of all-oxide TEGs for operation at high temperatures in ambient atmosphere will be presented too.