Solution-based synthesis and low-temperature transport properties of CsBi4Te6

The thermoelectric material CsBi(4)Te(6) was synthesized in nanometer thin flake-like form by a low temperature solvothermal approach. The crystals were then densified by spark plasma sintering (SPS), resulting in a polycrystalline specimen with layered and partially orientated grains. The orientation of the CsBi(4)Te(6) flakes reflects the anisotropic crystal structure of the material aided by the unidirectional pressure during SPS. Hall, resistivity, Seebeck coefficient, and thermal conductivity was measured on the polycrystalline specimen in evaluating the potential of this approach for thermoelectric applications.