Hacker News Reader

> Zhao’s team recently reported making an n-type single-crystal tin selenide by spiking it with bromine atoms. And Kanatzidis says his team is now working on making an n-type polycrystalline version. Once n-type and p-type tin selenide devices are paired, researchers should have a clear path to making a new generation of ultra-efficient thermoelectric generators.

View on HN

So write the paper after that's all done.

You don't understand the difference btw a research paper and a product launch. A paper is to provide inspiration. In this case, a high ZT p-type crystal may indicate a new mechanism that can be applied to searching / designing new thermoelectric materials. It's not for selling you a working device that can be put in your shopping cart.

(I did research in nano thermoelectrics and published a few papers in this field)

In defense of parent though it does not say “can” or “will” convert. News and views should have reflected that so it’s really not the fault of the original paper authors.

Reply on news.ycombinator.com