High-performance tailored Ag2Se thermoelectric networks via electrodeposition for body heat recovery

Abstract

With the rapid development of the Internet of Things (IoT), there has been a significant surge in the demand for flexible power supplies. However, most existing solutions still face challenges in delivering both a continuous, stable energy supply and excellent mechanical adaptability. Herein, we report an Ag₂Se network fabricated via a single-step electrodeposition process, which enables continuous regulation of porosity in the range of 75–99%. This method leads to the formation of a highly interconnected porous architecture. The optimized network with 92% porosity demonstrates a synergistic enhancement of thermoelectric and mechanical properties, achieving a zT value of 0.38 and excellent strain stability, with only a 6.4% increase in resistance after 1000 compressive cycles. The single-leg device based on this material delivers a high power density of 181.5 µW cm⁻² at a temperature difference of 40 K. In comparison, a denser network with 86% porosity, while mechanically rigid, achieves a room-temperature zT of 1.0, outperforming most bulk Ag₂Se thermoelectric materials. This work provides an effective strategy to coordinate thermoelectric performance and mechanical flexibility through structural porosity modulation, paving the way for advanced wearable self-powered technologies.