The Effect of Ge Doping on α-Ag₂S’s Thermoelectric and Mechanical Properties

Thermoelectric materials are capable of generating electrical energy in response to a temperature gradient. Non-renewable energy resources are depleting, so the development of renewable energy sources that are environmentally sustainable is essential. One potential application of these materials as an alternative energy source is in wearable electronics. Thermoelectric materials are used in common electrical devices, as well as by the military, in healthcare, and in space. As a ductile N-type semiconducting material, silver sulfide is one of the most promising materials in terms of thermoelectric potential. The properties of Ag2S can be improved by choosing the appropriate dopants. This study investigates the methods by which the thermoelectric, mechanical, and hardness properties of Ag2S are improved via Ge doping. The addition of Ge increases the Seebeck coefficient to a maximum of −87 μV·K−1 from −1051 μV·K−1 to P-type, bringing it closer to transitioning. In order to work, a thermoelectric generator requires both N- and P-type materials. By applying homojunctions made from similar materials, internal stresses caused by the varying thermal expansion rates of different materials are reduced. In order to demonstrate Ge integration, scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction were applied to the sample microstructure. In addition, supplementation was used to increase the ductility and malleability of materials to make them suitable for power generation in wearable electronics. These materials showed significant power factor values according to room-temperature measurements. This proves that materials capable of generating usable voltage lie in the recommended ambient temperature range for the user’s body, thus rendering them potential candidates for wearable electronics.