Thermoelectric Modules Using Earth-Abundant Elements: The Case of Zn, Cu, Al, O, and S

Thermal waste heat scavenging has garnered significant attention in recent decades. In this study, we developed a thermoelectric module using earth-abundant elements and evaluated its power conversion performance over a temperature range of 40 to 250°C. The n-type pillars were fabricated from Al-doped ZnO, while the p-type pillars consisted of a CuS/ZnO alloy. Both types of pillars were sintered in a furnace, and their respective figures of merit were measured up to 250°C. The module, composed of 45 pairs of these pillars, demonstrated notable power conversion capabilities. Our experimental results highlight a cost-effective approach to manufacturing thermoelectric modules with earth-abundant elements, presenting a viable alternative to conventional methods that rely on expensive materials and complex fabrication processes.