ZrNiSn

ZrNiSn is a stable, semiconducting half-Heusler compound primarily researched for its utility in thermoelectric energy conversion technologies.

Crystal structure of ZrNiSn
Ground-state structure · Materials Project
Overview

About ZrNiSn

ZrNiSn is a prominent member of the half-Heusler family, characterized by its semiconducting electronic structure and robust thermodynamic stability. As a material that resides on the convex hull, it offers excellent structural integrity for demanding physical environments.

This compound is widely investigated for its potential in thermoelectric energy conversion, where it serves as a base for developing efficient heat-to-electricity devices. Its well-documented structural properties make it a foundational material for researchers aiming to optimize power generation technologies.

At a glance

Key Properties

Cross-validated computational properties for ZrNiSn, aggregated across 4 databases.

Band Gap

0.50 eV
Range across DFT structures

Energy Above Hull

0.000 eV/atom
Best (lowest) across sources

Stability

On hull (stable)
2 DFT sources

Structures

15
4 databases, 2 space groups
Synthesis

Synthesis Routes

Literature-extracted synthesis procedures targeting ZrNiSn.

Solid State
Procedure available · ceder_solid_state
Solid State
Procedure available · ceder_solid_state
Solid State
Procedure available · ceder_solid_state
Solid State
Procedure available · ceder_solid_state
Solid State
Procedure available · ceder_solid_state
Solid State
Procedure available · ceder_solid_state
Uses

Applications

Where ZrNiSn is used.

Thermoelectric generatorsWaste heat recovery systemsSolid-state cooling
Reference

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about ZrNiSn, answered from cross-validated data.

What is ZrNiSn?

ZrNiSn is a stable, semiconducting half-Heusler compound primarily researched for its utility in thermoelectric energy conversion technologies.

More questions
What is ZrNiSn used for?
ZrNiSn is used in thermoelectric generators, waste heat recovery systems, and solid-state cooling.
What is the band gap of ZrNiSn?
ZrNiSn has a DFT-computed band gap of 0.50 eV across 15 reported structures.
Is ZrNiSn a metal, semiconductor, or insulator?
With a band gap up to 0.50 eV it is a semiconductor.
Is ZrNiSn thermodynamically stable?
Yes — ZrNiSn sits on the convex hull (energy above hull 0 eV/atom), i.e. on hull (stable).
How many polymorphs of ZrNiSn are known?
15 structures of ZrNiSn are reported across 4 databases, spanning 2 distinct space groups.
How is ZrNiSn synthesized?
Literature-reported routes for ZrNiSn include solid state (6 procedures documented).
What elements does ZrNiSn contain?
ZrNiSn contains Ni, Sn, and Zr (3 elements).
Where does the data for ZrNiSn come from?
ZrNiSn data is cross-referenced from latticegraph.
Comparison

How It Compares

Within the half-heusler thermoelectrics class.

Within the half-Heusler class, ZrNiSn is frequently compared to its structural sibling HfNiSn, as both compounds are highly regarded for their stable semiconducting behavior and potential for thermoelectric optimization through chemical substitution.

Explore

Related Compounds

Other Half-Heusler Thermoelectrics in the database.

Data sources & attribution
  • latticegraph — Lattice Graph Materials Intelligence Platform

Analyze ZrNiSn in the Lattice Graph platform

Polymorph comparison, confidence scoring, supply-chain risk, and patent monitoring — across 53 integrated data sources.

Explore the Platform →