Bismuth Telluride

Application

Bismuth telluride, a gray or black crystalline solid or powder, serves as one of the most efficient materials for room-temperature thermoelectric devices, making it ideal for applications in thermoelectric cooling and power generation. This semiconductor, known chemically as Bi2Te3, is often doped with selenium sulfide to enhance its conductivity for commercial use. With a high ZT value of up to 2.4, bismuth telluride is prized for its ability to effectively convert temperature differences into electrical voltage. However, it should be handled with care due to its potential to emit toxic fumes when decomposed and its moderate reactivity with oxidizing agents and acids. Despite being insoluble in water, its versatility in electronics reinforces its status as a critical component in current and emerging technologies.