Enhanced performance of n-type Ag2Se thin films via texture engineering
摘要
Flexible thermoelectric power generation is increasingly recognized as a viable solution for powering wearable electronic devices. However, the performance limitations of n-type flexible thin films have restricted their wider application. Here, we successfully fabricated n-type Ag2Se thin films with a high power factor of 2.14 mW m−1 K−2 at 300 K through texture engineering. Utilizing a straightforward thermal evaporation technique, we produced (201)-textured n-type Ag2Se thin films by employing Se precursor strategies. Both experimental and theoretical analyses reveal that Ag2Se thin films with this specific orientation exhibit superior carrier mobility and a high Seebeck coefficient. Moreover, the inherent low thermal conductivity of Ag2Se is further reduced by the presence of nanopores and random in-plane orientation, which effectively scatter phonons across various wavelengths. As a result, the Ag2Se films achieved an optimal ZT value of 0.73 at 363 K, suggesting substantial potential for further improvements. This research not only demonstrates a strategic method to manipulate the crystallographic orientation of Ag2Se thin films but also opens up new possibilities for developing high-performance thermoelectric materials.