Half-heusler compounds for use in thermoelectric generators

Abstract

A thermoelectric generator includes a hot side heat exchanger, a cold side heat exchanger, a plurality of n-type semiconductor legs arranged between the hot side heat exchanger and the cold side heat exchanger, and a plurality of p-type semiconductor legs arranged between the hot side heat exchanger and the cold side heat exchanger and alternating electrically in series with the plurality of n-type semiconductor legs. At least one of the plurality of n-type semiconductor legs and the plurality of p-type semiconductor legs is formed of an alloy having a half-Heusler structure and comprising Si and Sn with molar fractions of x Sn and 1−x Si, and x is less than 1.