MBN has developed a high-performance n-type thermoelectric powder based on the Mg₃(Sb,Bi)₂ system. This class of materials represents one of the most promising tellurium-free alternatives for low- and mid-temperature thermoelectric applications, combining intrinsically low thermal conductivity with favourable electronic transport. Through optimised doping and partial substitution of Sb with Bi, MBN achieved enhanced carrier concentration and extended efficiency range, resulting in a peak ZT of 1.6 near 350 °C. Synthesised via the proprietary Mechanomade® mechanosynthesis, the powder is uniformly mixed at the atomic scale, ensuring controlled phase formation and fine morphology. Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) enables rapid densification while preserving the nanostructure that suppresses phonon transport. The resulting components combine high electrical conductivity, low thermal conductivity, and robust mechanical integrity for long-term operation in thermoelectric devices. COMPOSITION Magnesium bal. – Antimony 48% – Bismuth 28% PROPERTIES Seebeck coefficient –230 to –240 μV/K Electrical resistivity 30–35 μΩ·m Thermal conductivity 0.8–0.9 W/mK ZT 1.2 Power factor 1.6 mW/mK²
Compiled from http://www.mbn.it
