Lithium intercalation triggers phase transitions, enabling scaling 2D dichalcogenides for high-performance flexible thermoelectrics

https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1125299

"insert lithium ions between 2D materials' atomic layers... adjusting lithium amount dictates material's properties... lithium ions act as chemical wedge, weakening bonds between layers so can be easily separated into individual sheets in liquid solution... high electrical conductivity/ low thermal conductivity for efficient energy conversion... thin/ flexible for wearable device/ curved surface integration... industrial-scale 2D material, such as molybdenum disulfide, printing/ coating, maintaining structural integrity"