STRUCTURAL INVESTIGATIONS IN THERMOELECTRIC MATERIALS.
Abstract
An investigation was made into the thermoelectric properties of homogeneous quaternary systems has been launched with exploration of compositional types: Cux (Zn, Cd, Hg) (Ge, Sn) (Se, Te)2x. The first member representing a valid phase was found to be a selenium-deficient Cu2CdSnSe4. The composition is more exactly represented by Cu12Cd6Sn6Se23. The compound possesses a complex superlattice based on zinc-blende, and melts at 765 degrees. It is a p-type semiconductor. The system Cu12Cd6+xSn6-xSe23 is almost invariant for x -2 <x< +1. For x> +1, degeneracy sets in; for x< 0, crystal lattice disorder occurs. Tin shows no sign of donar activity when in excess. Homologs of the cadmium-tin quaternary are being surveyed. Cu2HgSnSe4 forms a phase similar to the cadmium compound, but high mercury vapor pressure has defeated efforts to zone-level it. The germanium composition Cu2CdGeSe4 has a wurtzitetype structure, but shatters tubes when the melt freezes. No silver or tellurium homologs have yet been found.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1943
- Accession Number
- AD0606069
Entities
People
- C. J. Barclay
- E. J. Sheehan
- J. B. Conn
- P. I. Pollak
Organizations
- Merck & Co.