Optimization of Properties of Two-Dimensional Transition Metal Dichalcogenides Nanomaterials for Thermoelectric Energy Conversion.

• Applicant: Dr. Tetiana Tavrina
• Subject Area: Experimental Condensed Matter Physics
• Term: since 2025
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 566166272

This project aims to investigate the thermoelectric (TE) properties of a novel class of materials − two-dimensional (2D) transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs), such as MoS2, MoSe2, and others. These materials are selected for study due to their promising potential for TE applications, driven by their unique structure, exceptional mechanical and optical properties, semiconducting characteristics, and device functionalities. The primary focus will be on understanding how the dimensionality and quantum confinement effects influence their thermoelectric efficiency. The research will involve fabricating high-quality samples of 2D TMDC nanomaterials with varying compositions and structural parameters, such as material thickness, number of layers, and heterostructures composed of different TMDCs. Advanced fabrication techniques, including mechanical exfoliation followed by stacking with dry transfer, laser cutting, and electron-beam lithography, will be employed to produce test micro-devices. The resulting samples will be characterized using a combination of optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and atomic force microscopy (AFM). These samples will then undergo detailed measurement and analysis of their TE properties, including electrical conductivity, the Seebeck coefficient, and thermoelectric power factor, across a wide temperature range. These properties are essential for evaluating the overall performance of TE devices. Based on the findings, the project will identify suitable TMDC monolayers and heterostructures for high-efficiency thermoelectric applications. It will also provide valuable insights into strategies for enhancing the TE efficiency of 2D TMDC nanomaterials, supporting their further development for the fabrication of efficient, large-scale thermoelectric devices for real-world applications.

• DFG Programme: WBP Position