Thermoelectric properties of solid state reaction-prepared ZnO based alloys with various CuO doping in (CuO)x(ZnO)1−x

• Published in: Solid state communications 2023-02, Vol.361, p.115058, Article 115058
• Main Authors: Ghazi, N., Kadhim, A.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: CuO; Oxide thermoelectric materials; Solid state reaction; Thermoelectric properties; ZnO
• ISSN: 0038-1098; 1879-2766
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ssc.2022.115058

Thermoelectric (TE) materials based on ZnO and CuO materials in the form (CuO)x (ZnO)1−x were prepared via a solid state reaction method. The structure of the samples was analyzed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), where observed to be polycrystalline and monoclinic in structure. The nanostructure of the samples was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). By increasing CuO concentration, the surface morphologies of the samples were changed from a layered shape and well-packed structures to a uniform large grain distribution. Increases in CuO caused an increase in hole concentration (p) and electrical conductivity (σ), whereas, a comparatively decrease in Seebeck coefficient (S). A higher power factor (S2σ) of 12.92 μW/mK2 was obtained at about 575 K for a CuO0·75ZnO0.25 sample (x = 0.75). •Up to date, no literatures have been published about the TE properties for (CuO)x (ZnO)1-x alloys.•The successful preparation of (CuO)x (ZnO)1-x alloys using solid state reaction was achieved.•The structure of the samples was analyzed using XRD, where observed to be polycrystalline and monoclinic in structure.•The nanostructure of the samples was characterized by SEM.•The sample of x = 0.75 exhibited good TE properties.