Advances in bismuth-telluride-based thermoelectric devices: Progress and challenges

Abstract

By effectively converting waste heat into electricity, thermoelectric materials and devices can provide an alternative approach to tackle the energy crisis. Amongst thermoelectric materials, bismuth telluride (Bi₂Te₃) and its derivatives exhibit high figure of merit ZT values in the near-room-temperature region and show great potential for application in thermoelectric devices. Considering the rapid development of Bi₂Te₃-based thermoelectric materials and their devices in the last few years, a short and systematic review is much needed. Here, we summarize the novel designs, properties, and applications of Bi₂Te₃-based thermoelectric devices in different contexts, including wearable, portable, implantable, and cross-disciplinary applications. The challenges and outlook for Bi₂Te₃-based thermoelectric devices are also considered. This work will guide the future development of Bi₂Te₃-based thermoelectric devices that target broader and more practical applications.