Cole Graham IV
Research Mentor(s): Lu Li
Mentor Department: Physics
Authors: Cole Graham, Lu Li
Session: Session 4 (1:00pm – 1:50pm)
Presentation Type: Poster 94
Abstract
Kagome metals are known for their unique lattice geometries and underlying special material properties. Their unique lattice structure leads to novel electronic properties such as the flat-band and Dirac fermions. These lead to special thermoelectric properties, which make the material a prime candidate for future research and practical application. Despite notable research efforts, the practicality of these unique properties remains poorly understood. This study aims to investigate the thermoelectric effect within kagome metals under low temperatures, vacuum pressures, and high external magnetic fields to identify materials suitable for further practical superconductor development. To measure this effect, small-scale samples were constructed in a multi-step process under a microscope. First, the samples were cut into small, thin, three-dimensional rectangles and attached to a sapphire base plate. A small resistor, thermocouples, and gold current wires were then attached to the samples with silver epoxy. The samples were then baked on a hot plate, let to cool down, and assembled into a testing device. The samples were placed under low temperatures, a vacuum, and high external magnetic fields. The thermal gradient and electrical potential difference were concurrently and continuously measured through the attached gold wires and thermocouples. The results provide the direct measurements of the thermal conductivity, thermopower, and the Nernst effect, which are expected to provide deeper insight into the quantum properties of kagome metals and lay the groundwork for their application in next-generation electronics, superconductors, and quantum devices.
