Investigation on the assessment of nano-block integration process for novel thermoelectric materials

A novel process (nano-block integration) is proposed and we attempted to fabricate new composites with artificial superlattices alternatively stacking the conductive layers (octahedral CoO₂) and insulating layers (silica, etc.). Cobalt hydroxides, Co(OH)₂, with well controlled thickness ( nano scale) and crystallized morphologies by adjusting the conditions of an aqueous solution are achieved and subsequently oxidized to form CoO₂ sheets with the oxidization agents. A dense silica layer is prepared on CoO₂ sheets via the hydrolysis of organosilane. These identical operations are repeated several times and the thin film of composites is obtained on a glass substrate. After an appropriate treatment, the thermoelectric properties of the film are investigated.