Applicability of Semi-classical Boltzmann Transport Theory in Understanding the Thermoelectric Properties of ZrNiSn and ZrNiPb Half-Heuslers.

Here, we comment on the thermoelectric transport mechanism of ZrNiSn and ZrNiPb Half-Heuslers within the Boltzmann transport theory, under constant relaxation time approximation. We calculated the Seebeck coefficient, electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity and power factor which are in fairly good agreement with the experimental results. The Seebeck coefficient variation show the n-type behavior of heat carriers. The electrical and thermal conductivity show a semiconducting nature of bands along the Fermi level. Power factor variation show the heavier element doping of ZrNiSn results in descent increase in efficiency and applicability. The overall measurements show that semi classical Boltzmann transport theory has well behaved potential in predicting the transport properties of the compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]