Perovskite Oxide Nanocomposites for Thermoelectric Applications

Abstract

Oxides of transition elements with a perovskite structure is of significant interest due to their enhanced thermoelectric properties. Herein, we have synthesized LaCoO3 (LCO) and prepared composites with carbon nanofibers (CNF) in an effort to obtain increased power factor, thereby reducing lattice thermal conductivity (κL). LaCoO3 was prepared by Sol-Gel method using La and Co nitrates as precursors. The nanocomposites of LCO-CNF were prepared by traditional solid-state reaction. The phase purity of the samples was confirmed through XRD. The morphological characteristics of the pellets was studied through SEM analysis. Simultaneous electrical conductivity and seebeck measurements were performed in room temperature.