Synthesis and sintering of ZrNiSn thermoelectric compounds

In contrast to the commonly used arc melting method, samples in the present paper were prepared by the solid-state reaction from element powders at 1173K under a flowing argon atmosphere for 4-7 days. The constituent phases and the element compositions were determined and showing that samples were of single phase and stoichiometric. ZrNiSn powder was then consolidated by using the spark plasma sintering technique. The effect of sintering temperature and holding time on the density was discussed. It is found that, dense ZrNiSn compounds with fine grain size and homogeneous microstructure were achieved under the condition of 1123K-40MPa-25min.