Unlocking the Potential of Tin Selenide: A Breakthrough in Thermoelectric Solutions

Researchers have discovered that tin selenide undergoes atomic-level structural changes when heated, allowing it to conduct electricity but not heat. This finding could lead to advancements in technologies such as refrigeration and waste heat recovery. The compound's high thermoelectric coefficient at elevated temperatures is attributed to a dynamic partial disorder of the tin atoms, resulting in reduced heat conductivity. Understanding these atomic-scale changes can help optimize thermoelectric devices for improved energy conversion.