Bi2Te3-based 2 Te 3-based fl exible thermoelectrics

Bi2Te3-based 2 Te 3-based materials stand out as the top-performing material for thermoelectric applications at room temperature. However, its inherent rigidity has posed challenges for widespread usage in flexible thermoelectric conversion systems. Recent endeavors have focused on achieving Bi2Te3-based 2 Te 3-based flexible films through bulk thinning, physical/chemical deposition, paste casting, as well as the template method. These efforts have led to a surge in research publications. This review aims to offer a comprehensive update on the synthesis approaches, microstructures, thermoelectric performances/flexibility, and the underlying mechanisms. Future research should focus on investigating innovative deposition techniques, exploring new composite phases/templates, refining fabrication parameters, and among others, to enhance the thermoelectric performances as well as flexibility. (c) 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/).