Smart assembling of multi-scaled functional interfaces in thermoelectric Ga2Te3/Te hetero-nanocomposites

Abstract

We describe an innovative concept and facile approach in fabricating laterally assembled Ga₂Te₃/Te binary nanocomposite films, which comprise two-dimensional quasi-periodic Ga₂Te₃ nanoassemblies surrounded by interlocking highly-conductive Te single crystals for comprehensively establishing subnano- to micro-scaled multi-style versatile interfaces. The distinct Ga₂Te₃/Te nanocomposite film exhibits a power factor that is about 60 times higher than the reported conventional Ga₂Te₃ and Te materials, mainly due to the 2- to 3-order improved electrical conductivity and the comparable Seebeck coefficient.