摘要
Thermoelectric (TE) materials are green energy semiconductors that operate based on the conversion between heat and electricity. The effectiveness of TE materials can be determined by a dimensionless figure of merit (zT). Here, zT scales up with the material's electrical conductivity and Seebeck coefficient, and is inversely proportional to thermal conductivity. Entropy engineering has emerged as a promising avenue for enhancing the performance of TE materials. This review examines the influence of high-entropy effects in stabilizing single-phase structures, modifying electronic band structures, and enhancing transport properties of multi-element chalcogenide compounds. Entropy engineering utilizes multiple principal elements to achieve extended solid solubility through entropy-induced phase stabilization. Additionally, it lowers the lattice thermal conductivity through phonon scattering and enhances the Seebeck coefficients through band convergence. However, increased lattice distortion can impede carrier mobility, negatively affecting electrical conductivity. It is essential to balance the entropy effects on both thermal and electrical transport properties. Optimal TE performance is typically achieved at medium-high configurational entropy levels, where beneficial phonon scattering and electronic transport enhancements intersect. This work provides a comprehensive overview of the principles, mechanisms, and material systems underpinning entropy engineering in TE materials, offering insights for future research and practical applications in energy harvesting and solid-state cooling technologies.