Recent Progress on Diamondoid Cu₂SnSe₃ Thermoelectric Materials: A Review

Due to its unique electronic and thermal transport properties, diamondoid Cu₂SnSe₃ has garnered significant attention as a promising thermoelectric material. Over the past decade, numerous reports have demonstrated ZT exceeding 1.0 in this system, a benchmark for thermoelectric performance. In this paper, we summarize recent progress in Cu₂SnSe₃ thermoelectrics and introduce various strategies for optimizing its electrical and thermal transport properties. We review recent discoveries concerning crystal symmetry and electronic structure, and present a collection of reports on enhancing electronic transport properties through band structure modification. Additionally, we provide insights into how lattice dynamics and microstructure influence phonon transport behaviors and highlight the thermal conductivity reduction achieved through comprehensive phonon scattering mechanisms. Lastly, we outline the current challenges facing by Cu₂SnSe₃ and propose innovative ideas for future research.