SYNTHESIS OF POLYCRYSTALLINE BISMUTH TELLURIDE BY A METAL-ORGANO COMPLEX METHOD

The synthesis of polycrystalline bismuth telluride, Bi2Te3, by a metal-organo complex method commonly used for oxide materials is described. The process involves complexation of bismuth and tellurium species in aqueous tartaric acid followed by polyesterification with ethylene glycol. Controlled pyrolysis of the resultant mass gives a mixture of bismuth telluride and bismuth/tellurium oxides which are subsequently converted to a fine bismuth telluride powder through hydrogen reduction. Product identification as Bi2Te3 is supported by elemental analysis and X-ray diffraction data.