Large Nernst thermoelectric power factor and scattering mechanisms in topological semimetal LaBi

Topological semimetals show significant promise as efficient materials for thermoelectric energy conversion. Owing to their carrier compensation effect and high mobility, numerous systems with outstanding transverse thermoelectric performance have been identified. However, the underlying scattering mechanisms remain insufficiently explored. Herein, topological semimetal LaBi exhibiting large magnetoresistance of ∼10 4 % was selected as a case study for scattering mechanism exploration and Nernst effect analysis to elucidate the origin governing the Nernst thermopower. Based on the temperature-dependent resistivity, we observed a change in the dominant scattering mechanism, shifting from electron-electron scattering below 10 K to electron-phonon scattering above 10 K. Ultimately, the as-prepared LaBi showed a maximum Nernst thermopower S yx of 136.8 μV/K – at 10.8 K, 9 T and a large Nernst power factor PF N of 614 μW⸱cm –1 ⸱K –2 at 10.8 K, 6 T. These findings offer deeper insights into enhancing the transverse thermoelectric response of topological semimetals by integrating the study on scattering mechanisms.