Optimized thermoelectric performance of the n-type half-Heusler material TiNiSn by substitution and addition of Mn

Abstract

Alloys based on the half-Heusler compound TiNiSn with the addition of Mn or with a substitution of Ti by Mn are investigated as high-temperature thermoelectric materials. In both materials an intrinsic phase separation is observed, similar to TiNiSn where Ti has been partially substituted by Hf, with increasing Mn concentration the phase separation drastically reduces the lattice thermal conductivity while the power factor is increased. The thermoelectric performance of the n-type conducting alloy can be optimized both by substitution of Ti by Mn as well as the addition of Mn.