Since 2010, BiCuSeO has emerged as a captivating subject of investigation within the realm of thermoelectric materials. Its allure lies in a remarkable confluence of characteristics: a distinctive natural super-lattice structure, an elevated Seebeck coefficient, and a low thermal conductivity, all of which have collectively piqued the intense interest of scientists worldwide. Over the subsequent eight-year period, an extensive array of research endeavors has been meticulously carried out, delving deep into the multifaceted properties of BiCuSeO and exploring avenues for performance enhancement. In this comprehensive review, we embark on a detailed exploration of the fundamental properties of BiCuSeO, encompassing its preparation methodologies, as well as its thermoelectric and mechanical attributes. A thorough synthesis of diverse strategies for optimizing the composition and structure of BiCuSeO is presented, elucidating how these modifications contribute to the enhancement of its thermoelectric and mechanical performance. Finally, the current state of research on N-type BiCuSeO is systematically summarized, offering a panoramic view of the advancements and challenges in this particular area.
Keywords: BiCuSeO; ZT value; layered structure; thermoelectric material.