Pack Cementation Route to Ag2Se: Correlating Structure, Phase Formation, and Thermoelectric Performance

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Abstract
Silver selenide (Ag2Se) is a promising thermoelectric material for near-room-temperature applications, yet its scalable fabrication remains challenging due to limitations in conventional synthesis routes and the strong dependence of its properties on processing conditions. In this work, the pack cementation technique is introduced as a novel cost-effective, and industrially viable route for producing β-Ag2Se powders. The influence of synthesis parameters on phase formation, composition, and microstructure is examined, and their correlation with thermoelectric behavior is studied to establish clear structure–property relationships. The resulting Ag2Se is comprehensively evaluated for quality and performance. Phase-pure orthorhombic β-Ag2Se with near-stoichiometric composition and a uniform microstructure was successfully synthesized, with phase purity preserved after consolidation without secondary phases. The material exhibited competitive thermoelectric performance, achieving a maximum ZT = 0.63 at 352 K and stable operation up to ~375 K. These findings demonstrate that pack cementation can deliver high-quality Ag2Se with competitive efficiency, highlighting its potential for future optimization and large-scale production.
Funding Information
  • the project «Design and implementation of innovative lift’s air-conditioning systems by using thermoelectric devices» (ΚΜΡ6-0074109)
  • the European Regional Development Fund and Greece

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