Enhanced thermoelectric properties of (SnS)1−x(SnO)x: x ≤ 10.79% nanocomposites prepared by polyol method

(SnS)1−x(SnO)x: x = 0, 3.57%, 7.16%, and 10.79% nanocomposites (NCs) have been successfully synthesized using a simple polyol method. XRD data analysis shows formation of SnS and SnO NCs with an average crystallite size in the range from 30 to 35 nm. The Rietveld refinement analysis indicates layered orthorhombic crystal structure. FESEM images display the morphology of nanoflakes and nanoplates. Their positive Seebeck coefficients (α) suggest the p-type conduction. This is consistent with the deficiency of Sn found. (SnS)0.9284(SnO)0.0716 NC exhibits a thermal conductivity (κ) of 0.75 Wm−1 K−1 at 300 K. Electrical (σ) and thermal conductivities are decreased, but α enhances with increasing x. Consequently, the dimensionless figure of merit (ZT) increases with increasing x up to 7.16% for which ZT at 325 K is 0.0036. This is 55% enhancement compared to the pure SnS that opens a new window for improvement of thermoelectric performance near room temperature.