Towards the Use of Cu–S Based Synthetic Minerals for Thermoelectric Applications

Abstract

Most of the energy produced is lost, mainly as waste heat. Thermoelectricity, which can directly convert heat into electricity, is seen with huge potential to recover part of such heat. However, to be widely used, it is necessary to be based on cheap, available, non-toxic, stable and easy-to-produce good thermoelectric materials. Here we present an overview of the potential of Cu–S based synthetic minerals for thermoelectric applications. In particular, we focus on tetrahedrites, which are world spread minerals with Cu₁₀M₂Sb₄Si₃ (M = Cu, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Zn) general formula that show high potential for thermoelectrics. An overview of their properties are presented, with emphasis on those relevant for thermoelectric applications.