On the electrophoretic deposition of Bi2Te3 nanoparticles through electrolyte optimization and substrate design

Assembly of thermoelectric nanostructures with pre-defined morphology and surface chemistry on solid substrates has been one the challenges for in-plane TE devices. Electrophoretic deposition (EPD) potential to be used this purpose, where use non-conductive is required enable a reliable evaluation transport property electrically active films. Bi2Te3 nanoparticles, which were synthesized using microwave-assisted hydrothermal route, EPD films glass substrates. A special substrate was fabricated maskless photolithography, evaluate electronic properties without interference substrate. Electrolyte composition optimized high mobility suspended rate, reaching 10 μm/min. Initial showed resistivity, ascribed oxide layer capping ligands. The resistance significantly reduced by addition dithiol molecular linker, capable interconnecting nanoparticles through ligand-exchange. Seebeck coefficient in range −150 −180 μV/K measured, revealing deposited Finally, power factor 169 nW/K2.m estimated, application technology large area as coatings developed process.