Abstract:
As the global energy consumption increasing rapidly, development and application of thermoelectric devices have become one of the effective ways to solve the problem. Among them, bismuth telluride (Bi
2Te
3)-based flexible devices attract widespread attention because they have been applied in the wearable sector gradually. However, due to the limitations of high material cost, rigid structure, and other factors, it is difficult for Bi
2Te
3-based flexible thermoelectric devices to achieve flexible wearable applications while maintaining efficient thermoelectric properties. This paper systematically reviews the current research progress of Bi
2Te
3-based flexible thermoelectric devices in terms of material composites and flexible structure design, especially in terms of flexible structure design, which covers three types of structures: Ingot-, film- and yarn- shaped. Finally, it summarizes and analyzes the possible future challenges and development trends of Bi
2Te
3-based flexible thermoelectric devices, to facilitate the realization of a wide range of applications for thermoelectric devices in the wearable field.