Nd-S-CoSb3 Skutterudite Thermoelectric Material
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing compound semiconductors fail to simultaneously achieve high thermoelectric conversion efficiency, long-term electrical and optical stability, and cost-effectiveness for use in thermoelectric conversion elements and solar batteries.
Innovation Solution
A novel compound semiconductor represented by Chemical Formula NdxSyCo4Sb12-zQz, where Q is O, Se, or Te, is synthesized, optimizing carrier concentration and lattice thermal conductivity through controlled mole ratios of neodymium, sulfur, and selenium/tellurium, enhancing Seebeck coefficient and electrical conductivity while reducing thermal conductivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If existing compound semiconductors are used for thermoelectric conversion elements, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but thermoelectric conversion efficiency is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical composition parameters by incorporating rare earth elements (Nd, Sm, Gd, Dy, Er) and adjusting the stoichiometric ratios of Co, Sb, and Q elements to optimize thermoelectric performance while maintaining cost-effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite compound semiconductor structure with formula NdxSyCo4-zSb12-yQz where multiple elements are combined to achieve synergistic effects that improve thermoelectric conversion efficiency
2Reliability
If existing compound semiconductors are used for solar batteries, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but long-term electrical and optical stability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the compositional parameters including the ratios of Nd to CoSb3 base structure and the amount of Q elements to enhance electrical and optical stability for solar battery applications
Solution Approach 2:
The patent develops a composite material system combining rare earth elements with CoSb3 skutterudite structure to achieve both stability and cost-effectiveness for commercial solar battery use
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The compound semiconductor exhibits improved thermoelectric performance with high ZT figure of merit, durability at high temperatures, and reduced manufacturing costs, making it suitable for thermoelectric conversion elements and solar batteries.
Implementation Method 1
the thermoelectric generation is the form of power generation that converts heat energy into electrical energy using thermoelectromotive force generated by causing a temperature difference in a thermoelectric conversion element
Implementation Method 2
the compound semiconductor solar battery uses a compound semiconductor in a photo-absorbing layer that absorbs sunlight to form an electron-hole pair
Data Source
AI summary
A novel compound semiconductor that can be used for a solar battery, a thermoelectric material, and the like, and use thereof. The novel compound semiconductor may be represented by the following Chemical Formula: NdxSyCo4Sb12-zQz, wherein Q is one or more selected from the O, Se, or Te, 0<x<0.2, 0<y≤1, and 0<z<12.