Repeatable synthesis of (Bi/sub 2/Te/sub 3/)/sub 5/(TiTe/sub 2/)/sub 4/ superlattices using modulated elemental reactants

Abstract

Reliable synthesis techniques are essential for industrial thermoelectric applications. The modulated elemental reactant (MER) method was used to make a set of seven (Bi/sub 2/Te/sub 3/)/sub 5/(TiTe/sub 2/)/sub 4/ superlattices, with a superlattice period reproducible to within 0.6%. The electrical properties of these samples were controlled by the distribution and densities of defects. Annealing at 270/spl deg/C changed the Seebeck coefficient from -60 /spl mu/V/K to -200 /spl mu/V/K after 111 hours annealing at 270/spl deg/C.