Enhanced thermoelectric power factor in the Cu2Se system by the incorporation of GO/MWCNT

Abstract

The current study examines the transport capabilities of the thermoelectric material of copper selenide (Cu2Se), and its GO (Graphene oxide)/MWCNT (Multi-Walled Carbon Nano Tubes) nanocomposites synthesized using a cost-effective and straightforward chemical reduction method followed by a simple mechanical grinding process. Raman spectra, Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopymicrographs, High-Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy images, and the X- Ray Diffraction peak intensity of the all composites showed the existence of GO/MWCNT in the as-prepared samples. The power factor rose with the addition of GO/MWCNT, reaching maximum values of 881 & mu; W/mK2 and 1120 & mu; W/mK2 at 450 degrees C for Cu2Se-GO and Cu2Se-MWCNT, respectively. According to the findings, the highest thermopower of the Cu2Se-MWCNT composite was around 90 % greater (almost double) than that of bare Cu2Se. This article outlines an efficient and inexpensive process for producing carbon-related thermoelectric composite materials and a viable technique for increasing the power factor to enhance synergistic thermoelectric performance.