Skutterudite Derivatives: A Fundamental Investigation with Potential for Thermoelectric Applications
Graduation Year
2014
Document Type
Thesis
Degree
M.S.
Degree Granting Department
Physics
Major Professor
George S. Nolas, Ph.D.
Committee Member
Lilia Woods, Ph.D.
Committee Member
Sarath Witanachchi, Ph.D.
Keywords
skutterudites derivatives, thermoelectric, transport properties
Abstract
Thermoelectric devices allow for direct conversion of heat into electricity as well as solid-state refrigeration. The skutterudite family of compounds continues to be of considerable interest both scientifically and technologically due to their unique physical properties, in particular as promising thermoelectric materials. In this thesis, the basic thermoelectric phenomena and some background history on skutterudites will be reviewed. Rhombohedral derivatives of the cubic skutterudite CoSb3, namely Co4-xFexGe6Se6 with x=0, 1, 1.5 (p-type) and rare-earth filled Ce0.13Co4Ge6Se6 and Yb0.14Co4Ge6Se6 (n-type), were synthesized and their synthesis and low temperature transport properties will be discussed.
Reitveld refinement and elemental analysis were used to identify the structure and stoichiometry of these compositions. Both Fe substitution and rare-earth filling reduced the thermal conductivity compared with Co4Ge6Se6 skutterudite derivative. In addition the electrical and thermal properties of these compounds are greatly affected by doping. This fundamental investigation reveals new insight and is intended as part of the continuing effort to explore different skutterudite compositions and structure types for potential thermoelectric applications.
Scholar Commons Citation
Wei, Kaya, "Skutterudite Derivatives: A Fundamental Investigation with Potential for Thermoelectric Applications" (2014). USF Tampa Graduate Theses and Dissertations.
https://digitalcommons.usf.edu/etd/5152
