Bi2Te3 doped p-type Pb0.13Ge0.87Te samples were prepared by hot pressing. We report on very high power factor values of similar to 30 mu W/cm K-2 at 500 degrees C, as were determined from Seebeck coefficient and electrical resistivity measurements. From dilatometric characterization, the phase transition from the low temperature rhombohedral to the high temperature cubic NaCl structures, takes place at 373 degrees C. This transition is accompanied by a continuous and gradual change of the lattice parameters, as was observed by hot stage XRD, suggesting a good mechanical durability upon thermal cycling and operating in large thermal gradients. Rhombohedral distortion of the cubic NaCl structure of Pb1-xGexTe upon cooling, characterized by changes in the interaxial angle alpha and the lattice parameter. (C) 2007 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.