Optimizing Sn doping in Zn4Sb3 thin films: insights into processing and electrical performance

Chen, Cheng-Lung and Tang, Bo-Chen and Chen, Sheng-Chi and Wen, Chao-Kuang and Chen, Yin-Hung and Nor Hairin, Assayidatul Laila (2025) Optimizing Sn doping in Zn4Sb3 thin films: insights into processing and electrical performance. ChemSusChem, 18 (11). pp. 1-11. ISSN 1864-5631 E-ISSN 1864-564X

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Abstract

β-Zn4Sb3 is a promising thermoelectric material due to its environmental friendliness and suitability for mid-temperature applications which aligns with the development of renewable energy. However, maintaining its pure β-phase during fabrication remains a significant challenge, as phase instabilities often degrade its thermoelectric performance. Here, we demonstrate the successful optimization of β-Zn4Sb3 thin films through controlled Sn doping using ion beam-assisted deposition. By precisely regulating the Sn concentration at 0.97 %, the β- Zn4Sb3 phase is preserved, resulting in a maximum power factor of 1.4 mWm- 1K- 2 at 573 K—a 60% improvement over undoped films. Comprehensive analyses reveal that dilute Sn doping enhances carrier mobility and structural stability while avoiding detrimental phase transitions to ZnSb. These findings highlight the importance of precise doping and processing control in stabilizing the β-phase structure. This work provides a new pathway for fabricating high-quality thermoelectric thin films, offering valuable insights into the development of scalable, efficient energy harvesting technologies.

Item Type:	Article (Journal)
Additional Information:	7683/123437
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Thermoelectric, Zn4Sb3, Ion beam-assisted deposition, Doping, Energy efficiency, Renewable energy
Subjects:	T Technology > TK Electrical engineering. Electronics Nuclear engineering > TK2896 Production of electricity by direct energy conversion
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Kulliyyah of Engineering > Department of Manufacturing and Materials Engineering Kulliyyah of Engineering
Depositing User:	Dr Assayidatul Laila Nor Hairin
Date Deposited:	02 Oct 2025 10:38
Last Modified:	02 Oct 2025 10:41
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/123437

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