Hierarchical Bi-Te based flexible thin-film solar thermoelectric generator with light sensing feature

A flexible thin-film solar thermoelectric generator (STEG) was fabricated on the polyimide using a simple mask-assisted deposition process. The p-type Bi0.5Sb1.5Te3 and n-type Bi2Te2.7Se0.3 films with hierarchical nanostructures were prepared. A good contact was observed between the columnar Cu/Ni electrode and the thermoelectric films. The power output of the thin-film STEG is largely enhanced due to the low internal resistance and the large ΔT. The output voltage of 220 mV and maximum power of 80 μW were achieved at a temperature difference of 100 K. A fast electrical response against on-off simulated solar light was observed, indicating a light sensing feature.251