Utilizing Interfaces for Nano- and Micro-scale Control of Thermal Conductivity.

摘要

We have focused on developing innovative ways of thermal management and also enhancement of thermoelectric performance through thermal conductivity control. We have carried out various high temperature synthesis or relatively low temperature synthesis utilizing flux growth methods and also bottom-up nanosheet fabrication for the materials studied in the work. Studies have included: RAlB4 crystals, AlB2, bismuth telluride-type nanosheets, rare earth borocarbonitrides, B6S1-x compound, and carrier-doped chalcopyrite. As a striking byproduct of this work we investigated the properties of a complex phase chalcogenide compound, and although thermoelectric properties were not particularly good, an impactful scientific result was achieved, in the elucidation of the origin of the superconducting phase. Overall, we propose that magnetic semiconductors may be another new frontier for obtaining high performing thermoelectrics.