Optimum sintering method and temperature for cold compact Bismuth Telluride pellets for thermoelectric applications

This work intends to investigate the optimum sintering method and temperature that can improve efficiency of bismuth telluride cold compact pellets, for thermoelectric applications. Different p-type n-type pellets were treated using three different techniques conditions: pressure less (conventional), microwave, tube (using argon environment) at temperatures 250 °C, 300 350 400 °C. The structural, microscopic, electron transport, thermal, dielectric properties pristine sintered samples examined. Broadband spectroscopy was performed extract a detailed picture samples. Even though each type had its own merits demerits, conditions enhanced electric thermal features found in microwave furnace followed by conventional. Low conductivity 0.4 W/m/K observed °C while increase from improved crystallinity material. Moreover, crystal structure altered with occurrence higher oxidation leading formation high oxide phases above more dominantly