Abstract
Additive manufacturing (AM) has the potential to fabricate eco-friendly thermoelectric materials with low toxicity and earth abundance such as copper(I) sulfide holding onto the promise of revolutionizing the thermoelectric sector, introducing novel energy conversion possibilities, and reducing manufacturing expenses. However, compared to traditional thermoelectric materials, copper(I) sulfide has a complex microstructure involving three distinct phases at various temperature ranges each with its unique thermoelectric properties. Along with a highly variable stoichiometric range depending on processing and operating conditions that influence its thermoelectric properties as well. This dissertation addresses these issues when manufacturing using AM methodologies such as laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF), paste-based extrusion, and the steps taken to generate functional TE materials.