Preparation of nano-sized Bi2Te3 thermoelectric material powders by cryogenic grinding

• DOI: 10.1016/j.pnsc.2012.04.006
• Publication Date: 2012-06-13T09:02:50Z
• Authors: Xiaozong Chen; Leifeng Liu; Yuan Dong; Lianjun Wang; Lidong Chen; Wan Jiang
• Keywords: Spark Plasma Sintering; Liquid nitrogen

A novel method for rapid preparation of Bi2Te3 nano-sized powders with an average particle size about 70 nm was developed. starting powder mixture consisting coarse particles ∼5 mm ground using cryogenic grinding in the liquid nitrogen. For comparison, conventional high-energy ball milling used to prepare powders. Sintering properties as-prepared investigated by spark plasma sintering (SPS). The effects procedure on crystallinity, morphology and structure were examined X-ray diffraction (XRD) transmission electron microscopy (TEM). It found that not transformed into a non-equilibrium amorphous phase or decomposed during process, nano-powders possessed excellent sinterability. This technique might also be applicable other thermoelectric materials.