Recent advances in interface engineering of thermoelectric nanomaterials

Thermoelectric (TE) materials are auspicious candidates for direct thermal–electrical energy conversion applications. Interface engineering is one of the key parameters to determine the physicochemical properties of nanocomposites, in which interfacial manipulation can reduce κ by nano/micro-scale grain boundary construction and increase the power factor by electronic structure modifications, ultimately leading to an increase in ZT. With the advancement of nanotechnology, the design and synthesis of nanoparticles can be extended to sub-nanometer and even single-atom scales, which provides an opportunity for developing novel materials with extraordinary thermoelectric performances. In this article, we have chosen a completely new field – interface and provide a comprehensive review of the interfacial manipulation of hybrid materials, which are discussed in four parts chosen according to their dimension forms, including atoms, nanoclusters, ligand molecules, and particles. We also analyze the interaction of nanoparticle surfaces and identify the possibilities and obstacles for improving the performance of TE materials.