Lignin containing cellulose nanofiber/Ag 2 Se nanocomposite films: a promising material for thermoelectric film generators

• Published in: RSC advances 2024-08, Vol.14 (34), p.24756-24764
• Main Authors: Abouzeid, Ragab, Shayan, Mohammad, Koo, Meen Sung, Wu, Qinglin
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 2046-2069; 2046-2069
• DOI: 10.1039/D4RA01750A

This work deals with the fabrication of lignin containing cellulose nanofiber (LCNF)/Ag Se films for thermoelectric applications. Ag Se nanoparticles were synthesized within the LCNF network through methods, employing Na SeO and AgNO along with microwave energy treatment. LCNF/Ag Se films fabricated with two LCNF : Ag Se weight percent ratios ( , 50 : 50 and 30 : 70) were used to construct a flexible thermoelectric module. The obtained Ag Se nanoparticles displayed a uniform size distribution in the LCNF network with smaller dimensions from the microwave energy treated group. The microstructure of LCNF/Ag Se films was improved by hot-pressing, leading to enhanced film density thermoelectric properties. At a differential temperature of 50 K, films with 50% and 70% of Ag Se exhibited output voltages of 18 and 21 mV; and Seebeck coefficients of -60 and -70 μV K at 350 K, respectively. When microwave energy was applied, the films at 50% and 70% Ag Se showed highest output voltages of 19 and 33 mV, respectively, and Seebeck coefficients of -63.3 and -110 μV K at 350 K. The low-cost fabrication process associated with this module opens a pathway for applications such as energy harvesting.