Skinnerite Cu3SbS3: Solid-State Synthesis and Thermoelectric Properties

Skinnerite Cu3SbS3, which consists of non-toxic and low-cost elements, is a potential thermoelectric material, however, studies on its properties are limited. In this study, the optimal conditions mechanical alloying (MA) hot pressing (HP) for synthesis Cu3SbS3 phase were investigated, evaluated. The MA powder had theoretically predicted cubic skinnerite phase, remained even after HP. Thermal analyses revealed that powders HP specimens exhibited large endothermic peaks at approximately 880 K, corresponding to melting point Cu3SbS3. Compacts with high relative densities above 99% without cracks pores obtained an temperature 623 K above. lattice constants in range 1.0343–1.0394 nm. As increased, electrical conductivities decreased because changes their carrier concentrations; Seebeck coefficients increased. result, power factor values all 0.58–0.61 mW m−1 K−2 K. thermal lower than 0.78 Wm−1K−1. maximum dimensionless figure merit, <i>ZTmax</i> 0.57 was when prepared under solid-state (HP 673 2 h using 350 rpm 18 h).