Contact resistance optimization for development of thermoelectric modules based on bismuth telluride nanowires

Abstract

This paper presents a study of the contact resistance between a metal M (M = Ni, Pt, and Au) and an array of n-type Bi2Te3−xSex thermoelectric nanowires deposited through the electrodeposition process in the alumina membrane. Contact resistances between different metals and thermoelectric nanowires have been tested and characterized after optimization of the mechanical thinning and polishing process of the top part of the membrane. A low areal contact resistance of 87 µΩ cm2 obtained with Au as the contact electrode is very encouraging for the development of thermoelectric modules based on nanowires in their membranes.