Flexible Thermoelectric Electrode with a New Nitrogen-Modified MXene/SWCNT Layered Structure for Efficient Low-Grade Thermal Energy Collection

Confronting the global challenge of energy efficiency in the backdrop of environmental concerns, the innovation of a flexible thermoelectric electrode marks a significant stride forward, especially in the realm of low-temperature heat recovery. This investigation unveils a pioneering electrode material, a nitrogen-doped SWCNT/MXene bilayer thin film, which was meticulously engineered for thermoelectric systems. Surpassing the conventional Pt electrode with inherent inflexibility and prohibitive cost, our proposed electrode showcases excellent ductility alongside commendable thermoelectric properties. Our electrodes demonstrate significant advancement, achieving a thermopower output of 14.11 μW·cm^-2 with the Seebeck coefficient escalating to 1.61 mV·K^-1 even at a modest temperature differential of 40 °C. The results mark a substantial 32% enhancement in thermoelectric performance compared to the power output at 10.69 μW·cm^-2 for a Pt electrode under similar conditions. This remarkable improvement underscores the superior efficiency and potential of our electrodes for practical thermoelectric application, offering a viable and cost-effective alternative to traditional Pt-based solutions. This innovation not only positions itself as a formidable contender to Pt electrodes but also signals a new dawn for efficient thermoelectric energy harvesting, underscored by the material's scalability and ready availability.