Synthesis and thermoelectric properties of defect-containing PbSe–PbTe heterojunction nanostructures

Abstract

A facile and controllable approach has been devised to synthesize PbSe–PbTe heterogeneous nanostructures (HNSs). The defects could be modulated simply by controlling the addition of Se and Te precursors. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy and electron energy-loss spectroscopy show the defect structures in the interface and the distribution of PbSe and PbTe, respectively. Geometric phase analysis based on HRTEM imaging reveals the strain distribution in the defect-free and defect-containing PbSe–PbTe HNSs. The strain distribution and defects in the interface of the PbSe–PbTe HNSs affect the Seebeck coefficient and the electrical conductivity of the PbSe–PbTe HNSs.