Production of ZnAlO semiconducting materials for thermoelectric generators in potential aerospace applications

The primary objective of this research is to synthesize and develop n-type ZnAlO semiconducting thermoelectric materials for application in thermoelectric generators within the aerospace sector. ZnAlO powders were synthesized utilizing the sol–gel method. The pH and turbidity of the prepared solutions were measured using a pH meter and a turbidimeter, respectively. After drying at 200 °C for 9 h to eliminate moisture and volatile substances, the dried powders were subsequently calcined at 600 °C for 4 h in an air atmosphere, resulting in the formation of ZnAlO materials. These powders were then compacted into pellets and underwent thermal treatment at 1350 °C for 36 h to produce bulk n-type semiconductor samples. Thermal, structural, microstructural, and thermoelectric characterization of the synthesized materials was conducted employing DTA-TG, XRD, XPS, SEM, and thermoelectric measurement devices. The study concludes that the synthesized n-type semiconducting ceramic materials exhibit properties conducive to efficient thermoelectric generator production.