Energy-efficient synthesis of porous n-type Pb1_xSnxSe1_y/(AgCl)z/Pb with high zT

We utilize an aqueous solution method to create precursor materials at room temperature. These precursors are then subject to heating at 550 degrees C in a mixture gas consisting of 20 % H2 and 80 % N2 for a duration of 8 h. This process allows us to fabricate n-type porous Pb1_xSnxSe1_y/(AgCl)z/Pb nanocomposites. To effectively reduce the thermal conductivity, we introduce a novel nanoprecipitate of AgCl. By simultaneously doping with Sn and creating a selenium deficiency, we enhance both the electrical conductivity and thermopower. Consequently, we achieve a figure-of-merit (zT) of 1.53 at 770 K for the Pb1_xSnxSe1_y/(AgCl)z/Pb composite with the composition (x, y, z) = (0.005, 0.15, 0.03). This figure is the highest among n-type PbSe-based materials prepared using wet chemical processes.