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Measurement and Characterization Techniques for Thermoelectric Materials

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  15 February 2011

Terry M. Tritt
Terry M. Tritt*
Affiliation:
Department Of Physics And Astronomy Clemson University, Clemson, Sc
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Abstract

Characterization of thermoelectric materials can pose many problems. A temperature difference can be established across these materials as an electrical current is passed due to the Peltier effect. The thermopower of these materials is quite large and thus large thermal voltages can contribute to many of the measurements necessary to investigate these materials. This paper will discuss the characterization techniques necessary to investigate these materials and provide an overview of some of the potential systematic errors which can arise. It will also discuss some of the corrections one needs to consider. This should provide an introduction to the characterization and measurement of thermoelectric materials and provide references for a more in depth discussion of the concepts. It should also serve as an indication of the care that must be taken while working with thermoelectric materials.

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