Bottom-up wet chemical synthesis and characterization of Bi$_{\mathrm{x}}$Te$_{\mathrm{y}}$ nanoparticles

POSTER

Abstract

Bi$_{\mathrm{x}}$Te$_{\mathrm{y}}$ is an interesting series of compounds for which certain x:y ratios result in formation of a natural superlattice structure. The different stoichiometric ratios, designated by the x and y, is better represented by (Bi$_{\mathrm{2}})_{\mathrm{m}}$(Bi$_{\mathrm{2}}$Te$_{\mathrm{3}})_{\mathrm{n}}$ where m and n are integers, and is an infinitely adaptable series. For this study, we have chosen x:y to be 1:1, 2:3 and 2:1 which are expected to form the natural superlattice with m and n values. The alternating layers of Bi$_{\mathrm{2}}$ groups and Bi$_{\mathrm{2}}$Te$_{\mathrm{3}}$ groups stack along the c-axis of the lattice according to the m:n ratio. Bi$_{\mathrm{2}}$Te$_{\mathrm{3}}$ is a well-studied thermoelectric material, and the work done in this project may have potential implications for optimizing the material. Using a bottom up wet chemical synthesis, the desired ratios have been produced in high yields. X-Ray Diffraction is consistent with the intended compounds, but also shows free tellurium as an impurity. Using Scanning Electron Microscopy and Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy, the particles are found to be nanoscale and the elemental analysis shows the stoichiometry is close to the desired ratios.

Authors

  • Brendan S. Brown

    Department of Physics, John Carroll University

  • Daniel J. Volpe

    Department of Physics, John Carroll University

  • Jeff Dyck

    Physics Dept., John Carroll Univ., Department of Physics, John Carroll University, John Carroll University

  • Paul C. Challen

    Department of Chemistry, John Carroll University

  • Don Anderson

    Univ of Michigan - Ann Arbor, The University of Texas at Dallas, Ball State University, Department of Physics, Kettering University, Institute of Physics, University of Brasilia, Brazil, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Kettering University, Center for Photovoltaics Innovation and Commercialization (PVIC), Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Toledo, Univ of Toledo, Department of Physics, Sri Venkateswara University,Tirupati-517 502, Universidad de La Habana, Ohio State Univ - Columbus, Miami University, Physical Therapy, Eastern Michigan University, Physics, Cleveland State University, Youngstown State Univ, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Youngstown State University, Student