On the relevance of point defects for the selection of contacting electrodes: Ag as an example for Mg2(Si,Sn)-based thermoelectric generators

In developing thermoelectric generators, optimizing interfaces between thermoelectric materials and contacting electrodes is a crucial step. Among the tested electrodes for Mg2(Si,Sn)-based generators, Ag shows good adhesion, controllable interfaces and low electrical contact resistances. However, it induces unexpected changes in the Seebeck coefficient of n-type samples, while no change is observed in p-type.