Ternary p-type BixSb2−xTe3 nanoplatelets are synthesized by a solvothermal method, using l-cysteine as reducing and stabilizing agent, which prevents phase segregation problem leading to homogenous composition.
BixSb2−xTe3 carrier concentration is systemically tuned. The crystalline phase and composition is investigated by X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy.
Bulk nanocomposites are formed by spark plasma sintering and the thermoelectric figure or merit of BixSb2−xTe3 is optimized ~0.51.