Research Progress of N-type MgSb based Thermoelectric Materials

Abstract

N-type Mg₃Sb₂-based thermoelectric materials have garnered significant attention due to their excellent thermoelectric performance in the low to medium temperature range (300–700 K), abundant elemental reserves, and low cost. This paper systematically reviews recent research progress in n-type Mg₃Sb₂-based thermoelectric materials, with a focus on preparation methods, performance enhancement strategies, and application prospects. Key synthesis techniques, including solid-state reaction, mechanical alloying combined with spark plasma sintering (SPS), rapid solidification, and flux/molten salt growth, are discussed in detail, highlighting their respective process characteristics, microstructural control mechanisms, and influences on thermoelectric properties. To improve the thermoelectric figure of merit (ZT), strategies such as carrier and band engineering, multiscale phonon scattering, and defect regulation are emphasized. These approaches aim to decouple electron and phonon transport, thereby enhancing the power factor while reducing lattice thermal conductivity. Furthermore, this review explores the potential applications of n-type Mg₃Sb₂-based materials in waste heat recovery and solid-state cooling, addressing key challenges related to module integration, interfacial stability, and scalability. Finally, future research directions and practical implementation pathways are proposed to facilitate the development and deployment of high-performance Mg-Sb thermoelectric systems.