Optimizing magnetic thermoelectric effects by first-principles strain engineering

Abstract

Thermoelectric conversion using the anomalous Nernst effect (ANE) has excellent potential for application in energy harvesting technology. Compared to the typical thermoelectric effect known as the Seebeck effect, the thermoelectric figure of merit in ANE is about ten times smaller; realizing large ANE response is a critical challenge aiming to achieve its application. Strain engineering is one of the most promising methods for realizing large ANE responses. In this study, we evaluate strain dependence of ANE for D03 type Heusler compound Fe3Si. We find that the (111) epitaxial strain is more enhanced ANE for Fe3Si. These present results will give us a useful guiding principle to design magnets showing a large ANE.