Synthesis and thermoelectric properties of low-x Bi2Se 3-xS3 series

Abstract

Bi2Se3-xSx solid solutions, with low x values, were synthesized from melt. The solid solutions were studied in terms of phase purity using powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) in order to find the maximum x value for the preservation of the single Bi2Se3-type phase. The lattice parameters were estimated and showed the reduced unit cell with the S incorporation in the lattice. SEM images confirmed the plate-like morphology of the Bi2Se3-xSx single-phase members. The thermoelectric properties (Seebeck coefficient and electrical conductivity) as well as IR reflectivity were also studied on members with x<0.4 that were found to form single phase Bi2Se 3-xSx solid solutions. © 2009 American Institute of Physics.