University of California

Joshua M O Zide

John E Bowers

Ali Shakouri

Arthur Charles Gossard

Composite epitaxial materials that comprise semimetallic ErAs nanoparticles or nanoislands epitaxially embedded in a semiconducting InGaAs matrix both as superlattices and randomly distributed throughout the matrix are disclosed. The presence of these particles increases the free electron concentration in the material while providing scattering centers for phonons. Electron concentration, mobility, and Seebeck coefficient of these materials are discussed and their potential for use in thermoelectric power generators is postulated. These composite materials in accordance with the present invention have high electrical conductivity, low thermal conductivity, and a high Seebeck coefficient. The ErAs nanoislands provides additional scattering mechanism for the mid to long wavelength phonon&#x2014;the combination reduces the thermal conductivity below the alloy limit.

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Goleta, CA, United States of America

Joshua M O Zide