The Role of Zn in Chalcopyrite CuFeS₂: Enhanced Thermoelectric Properties of Cu_1–xZn_xFeS₂ with In Situ Nanoprecipitates

Chalcopyrite (CuFeS 2 ) is a widespread natural mineral, composed of earth‐abundant and nontoxic elements. It has been considered a promising n‐type material for thermoelectric applications. In this work, a series of Zn‐doped Cu 1– x Zn x FeS 2 ( x = 0–0.1) compounds are synthesized by vacuum melting combined with the plasma activated sintering process. The role of Zn in the chalcopyrite and its different effects on thermoelectric properties,...