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Phase Transitions01:21

Phase Transitions

A phase transition is the process in which a substance changes from one state of matter to another, like from a solid to a liquid, liquid to gas, or vice versa, at a specific temperature and under given pressure conditions. This change is spontaneous and is affected by alterations in temperature and pressure. These parameters impact the strength of the forces between molecules (intermolecular forces) in the substance.During a phase transition, both the initial and final phases of the substance...
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Whether solid, liquid, or gas, a substance's state depends on the order and arrangement of its particles (atoms, molecules, or ions). Particles in the solid pack closely together, generally in a pattern. The particles vibrate about their fixed positions but do not move or squeeze past their neighbors. In liquids, although the particles are closely spaced, they are randomly arranged. The position of the particles are not fixed—that is, they are free to move past their neighbors to occupy...
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Phase separation as a key to a thermoelectric high efficiency.

Michael Schwall1, Benjamin Balke

  • 1Institut für Anorganische und Analytische Chemie, Johannes Gutenberg-Universtität, 55099 Mainz, Germany.

Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics : PCCP
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Summary

This study explains the unique thermoelectric properties of TiZrHfNiSn Heusler compounds, attributing them to intrinsic phase separation. Reproducible high Figure of Merit values (ZT = 1.2 at 830 K) were achieved.

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Area of Science:

  • Materials Science
  • Solid State Physics
  • Thermoelectrics

Background:

  • Thermoelectric materials offer potential for waste heat recovery.
  • TiZrHfNiSn Heusler compounds exhibit exceptional but unreproducible thermoelectric properties.
  • Understanding the origin of these properties is crucial for technological application.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To elucidate the reasons behind the outstanding thermoelectric performance of doped TiZrHfNiSn Heusler compounds.
  • To investigate the role of microstructure and phase separation in achieving high thermoelectric efficiency.
  • To explore the impact of doping on the material's properties.

Main Methods:

  • Synchrotron X-ray diffraction measurements for structural analysis.
  • Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for microstructural investigation.
  • Thermoelectric property measurements, including Figure of Merit (ZT).

Main Results:

  • The microstructure comprises three stable C1(b) phases with semi-coherent interfaces.
  • Intrinsic phase separation is identified as the cause of exceptional thermoelectric properties.
  • Reproducible high Figure of Merit values of ZT = 1.2 at 830 K were achieved.

Conclusions:

  • The intrinsic phase separation in TiZrHfNiSn Heusler compounds is key to their high thermoelectric performance.
  • Reproducibility of high ZT values is now possible.
  • Doping strategies can be employed to further optimize thermoelectric efficiency.