In a groundbreaking study published in ‘Materials Research Express’, researchers have unveiled promising insights into the thermoelectric properties of half-Heusler compounds, specifically ScNiAs and YNiAs. This research, led by Ashesh Giri from the Central Department of Physics at Tribhuvan University in Nepal, holds significant implications for the construction sector, particularly in enhancing energy efficiency.
Half-Heusler compounds are gaining attention as potential materials for thermoelectric devices, which can convert waste heat into usable electrical power. This ability is increasingly crucial as industries and urban environments grapple with the pressing issue of energy consumption and sustainability. Giri’s research utilized advanced techniques such as Density Functional Theory (DFT) and semi-classical Boltzmann transport theory (BTE) to explore the structural, electronic, magnetic, and thermoelectric properties of these compounds.
The findings reveal that both ScNiAs and YNiAs are non-magnetic semiconductors with indirect band gaps of approximately 0.48 eV and 0.50 eV, respectively. These properties suggest that they could effectively facilitate energy conversion processes. “Our research indicates that these materials not only exhibit dynamic and mechanical stability but also possess unique thermal properties that could be harnessed in practical applications,” Giri notes.
At room temperature, ScNiAs shows a lattice thermal conductivity of 28.67 W/mK, while YNiAs measures 15.21 W/mK. Notably, the thermal conductivity decreases as temperature rises, which is advantageous for thermoelectric performance. The study highlights that the highest power factors for these compounds occur at elevated temperatures, with ScNiAs achieving 29.03 μW/cmK² and YNiAs reaching 29.74 μW/cmK² at 1100 K for n-type doping.
The research emphasizes the superior thermoelectric performance of these materials when doped n-type, with optimal figures of merit (zT) reaching 0.33 for ScNiAs and 0.58 for YNiAs at 1100 K. However, Giri points out that the presence of flat bands and higher lattice thermal conductivity limits the potential for achieving even higher zT values. “While there are challenges to overcome, the results are encouraging and suggest pathways for further development in thermoelectric materials,” he adds.
For the construction industry, the implications of this research are profound. The ability to convert waste heat into electricity can lead to significant energy savings in buildings and infrastructure, enhancing overall energy efficiency. As the sector increasingly focuses on sustainable practices, integrating thermoelectric materials into construction could revolutionize how buildings manage energy, reduce carbon footprints, and contribute to greener urban environments.
This research not only paves the way for advancements in thermoelectric materials but also aligns with the global shift towards sustainability in construction. For more information on Ashesh Giri’s work, you can visit the Central Department of Physics at Tribhuvan University [here](http://www.tu.edu.np).