Institute of Inorganic Chemistry
Topic
Novel approaches to enhance thermoelectric performance of ceramics
PhD. program
inorganic chemistry
Year of admission
2026
Name of the supervisor
Ing. Peter Tatarko, PhD.
Contact:
Receiving school
Faculty of Natural Sciences CU
Annotation
This PhD project focuses on the development of high-performance thermoelectric ceramic composites based on perovskite oxides, aiming to improve their efficiency for direct heat-to-electricity conversion. The research will combine theoretical prediction of the properties of multi-substituted perovskite structures of the ABO₃ type with experimental synthesis, microstructural optimization, and comprehensive materials characterization. The PhD student will investigate various synthesis routes, including solid-state synthesis, mechanochemical synthesis, and self-sustaining reactions induced by high-energy ball milling, followed by sintering and thermal treatment. Particular emphasis will be given to understanding the relationships between chemical composition, microstructure, and key thermoelectric parameters, such as Seebeck coefficient, electrical conductivity, and thermal conductivity. To further enhance thermoelectric performance, optimized ceramic matrices will be combined with electrically conductive secondary phases to form composite materials. The outcomes of this research are expected to contribute to a deeper understanding of transport mechanisms in oxide-based thermoelectric materials and to support the development of sustainable energy technologies for efficient waste heat recovery, in line with the goals of climate neutrality in Europe.