Thermoelectric properties of B4C-SiC composites with various compositions and microstructures

Abstract

Nowadays, energy applications constitute the main causes of global problems such as environmental pollution, excessive energy consumption, and disproportionate use of non-renewable resources. Therefore, research and investments in the efficient use of energy, alternative renewable energy sources, and environmentally friendly practices are imperative. In energy efficiency applications, special attention must be paid to the thermoelectric properties of materials, including thermal stability, Seebeck coefficient, electrical conductivity, and thermal conductivity. In these applications, carbides such as B4C and SiC are of great importance due to their tunable and effective thermoelectric properties at high temperatures. In this study, B4C and SiC-based composites with various compositions were produced by using the spark plasma sintering method to examine and improve the temperature-dependent (573 K to 923 K) thermoelectric properties through the effect of the ratios of B4C and SiC within the composition and powder or granule matrix.