Environmental Effects on the Photophysics of Organic-Inorganic Halide Perovskites

Light-induced photoluminescence enhancement in chiral CdSe quantum dot films

Chiral quantum dots (QDs) are promising materials applied in many areas, such as chiral molecular recognition and spin selective filter for charge transport, and can be prepared by facile ligand exchange approaches. However, ligand exchange leads to an increase in surface defects and reduces the efficiencies of radiative recombination and charge transport, which restricts further applications. Here, we investigate the light-induced photoluminescence (PL) enhancement in chiral L- and D-cysteine CdSe QD thin films, providing a strategy to increase the PL. The PL intensity of chiral CdSe QD films can be significantly enhanced over 100 times by continuous UV laser irradiation, indicating a strong passivation of surface defects upon laser irradiation. From the comparative measurements of the PL intensity evolutions in vacuum, dry oxygen, air, and humid nitrogen atmospheres, we conclude that the mechanism of PL enhancement is photo-induced surface passivation with the assistance of water molecules.

Sensing Utilities of Cesium Lead Halide Perovskites and Composites: A Comprehensive Review

Recently, the utilization of metal halide perovskites in sensing and their application in environmental studies have reached a new height. Among the different metal halide perovskites, cesium lead halide perovskites (CsPbX3; X = Cl, Br, and I) and composites have attracted great interest in sensing applications owing to their exceptional optoelectronic properties. Most CsPbX3 nanostructures and composites possess great structural stability, luminescence, and electrical properties for developing distinct optical and photonic devices. When exposed to light, heat, and water, CsPbX3 and composites can display stable sensing utilities. Many CsPbX3 and composites have been reported as probes in the detection of diverse analytes, such as metal ions, anions, important chemical species, humidity, temperature, radiation photodetection, and so forth. So far, the sensing studies of metal halide perovskites covering all metallic and organic-inorganic perovskites have already been reviewed in many studies. Nevertheless, a detailed review of the sensing utilities of CsPbX3 and composites could be helpful for researchers who are looking for innovative designs using these nanomaterials. Herein, we deliver a thorough review of the sensing utilities of CsPbX3 and composites, in the quantitation of metal ions, anions, chemicals, explosives, bioanalytes, pesticides, fungicides, cellular imaging, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), toxic gases, humidity, temperature, radiation, and photodetection. Furthermore, this review also covers the synthetic pathways, design requirements, advantages, limitations, and future directions for this material.

Pathways of Water-Induced Lead-Halide Perovskite Surface Degradation: Insights from In Situ Atomic-Scale Analysis

While organic-inorganic hybrid perovskites are emerging as promising materials for next-generation photovoltaic applications, the origins and pathways of perovskite instability remain speculative. In particular, the degradation of perovskite surfaces by ambient water is a crucial subject for determining the long-term viability of perovskite-based solar cells. Here, we conducted surface characterization and atomic-scale analysis of the reaction mechanisms for methylammonium lead bromide (MA(CH3NH3)PbBr3) single crystals using ambient-pressure atomic force microscopy (AP-AFM) and near-ambient-pressure X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (NAP-XPS) in environments ranging from ultrahigh vacuum to 0.01 mbar of water vapor. MAPbBr3 single crystals, grown by a solution process, were mechanically cleaved under UHV conditions to obtain an atomically clean surface. Consecutive topography and friction force measurements in low-pressure water (pwater ≈ 10-5 mbar) revealed the formation of degraded patches, one atomic layer deep, gradually increasing their coverage until the surface was entirely covered at a water exposure of 4.7 × 104 langmuir (L). At the perimeters of these degraded patches, a higher friction coefficient was observed, along with an interstitial step height, which we attribute to a structure equivalent to that of the MA-Br terminated surface. Combined with NAP-XPS analysis, our results demonstrate that water vapor induces the dissociation of surface methylammonium ligands, eventually resulting in the depletion of the surface MA and the full coverage of hydrocarbon species after exposure to 0.01 mbar of water vapor.

Ultrapure Green High Photoluminescence Quantum Yield from FAPbBr3 Nanocrystals Embedded in Transparent Porous Films

Achieving highly transparent and emissive films based on perovskite quantum dots (PQDs) is a challenging task since their photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) typically drops abruptly when they are used as building blocks to make a solid. In this work, we obtain highly transparent films containing FAPbBr₃ quantum dots that display a narrow green emission (λ = 530 nm, full width at half-maximum (FWHM) = 23 nm) with a PLQY as high as 86%. The method employed makes use of porous matrices that act as arrays of nanoreactors to synthesize the targeted quantum dots within their void space, providing both a means to keep them dispersed and a protective environment. Further infiltration with poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) increases the mechanical and chemical stability of the ensemble and serves to passivate surface defects, boosting the emission of the embedded PQD and significantly reducing the width of the emission peak, which fulfills the requirements established by the Commission Internationale de l'Éclairage (CIE) to be considered an ultrapure green emitter. The versatility of this approach is demonstrated by fabricating a color-converting layer that can be easily transferred onto a light-emitting device surface to modify the spectral properties of the outgoing radiation.

Interface passivation for 31.25%-efficient perovskite/silicon tandem solar cells

Silicon solar cells are approaching their theoretical efficiency limit of 29%. This limitation can be exceeded with advanced device architectures, where two or more solar cells are stacked to improve the harvesting of solar energy. In this work, we devise a tandem device with a perovskite layer conformally coated on a silicon bottom cell featuring micrometric pyramids-the industry standard-to improve its photocurrent. Using an additive in the processing sequence, we regulate the perovskite crystallization process and alleviate recombination losses occurring at the perovskite top surface interfacing the electron-selective contact [buckminsterfullerene (C₆₀)]. We demonstrate a device with an active area of 1.17 square centimeters, reaching a certified power conversion efficiency of 31.25%.

Simultaneous Photoluminescence and Photothermal Investigation of Individual CH3NH3PbBr3 Microcrystals

The photoluminescence (PL) of CH₃NH₃PbBr₃ (MAPbBr₃), from thin films to nanoparticles, has been widely studied, providing information about charge carrier dynamics. However, the other energy dissipative channel, nonradiative relaxation, has not been thoroughly investigated due to a lack of proper technology. In this work, we simultaneously investigated the PL and photothermal (PT) properties of single MAPbBr₃ microcrystals (MCs) by a home-built PL and PT microscope. In addition to the direct observation of the heterogeneity of the PL and PT images and kinetics of different MCs, we demonstrated the variation in the absorption of single MAPbBr₃ MCs, which was believed to be constant. We also proved that more absorbed energy dissipated from the nonradiative channel at higher heating power. These results show that PL and PT microscopy is an effective and convenient method to investigate the charge carrier behaviors of optoelectronic materials at the single particle level for a deep understanding of their photophysical processes.

In Situ and Operando Characterizations of Metal Halide Perovskite and Solar Cells: Insights from Lab-Sized Devices to Upscaling Processes

The performance and stability of metal halide perovskite solar cells strongly depend on precursor materials and deposition methods adopted during the perovskite layer preparation. There are often a number of different formation pathways available when preparing perovskite films. Since the precise pathway and intermediary mechanisms affect the resulting properties of the cells, in situ studies have been conducted to unravel the mechanisms involved in the formation and evolution of perovskite phases. These studies contributed to the development of procedures to improve the structural, morphological, and optoelectronic properties of the films and to move beyond spin-coating, with the use of scalable techniques. To explore the performance and degradation of devices, operando studies have been conducted on solar cells subjected to normal operating conditions, or stressed with humidity, high temperatures, and light radiation. This review presents an update of studies conducted in situ using a wide range of structural, imaging, and spectroscopic techniques, involving the formation/degradation of halide perovskites. Operando studies are also addressed, emphasizing the latest degradation results for perovskite solar cells. These works demonstrate the importance of in situ and operando studies to achieve the level of stability required for scale-up and consequent commercial deployment of these cells.

Ultra-Stable and Highly Efficient White Light Emitting Diodes through CsPbBr3 Perovskite Nanocrystals-Silica Composite Phosphor Functionalized with Surface Phenyl Molecules

Poor stability of CsPbBr₃ perovskite nanocrystals (NCs) to moisture/heat/light has significantly limited their application as a green phosphor, despite their outstanding luminescent properties. Here, a remarkably stable CsPbBr₃ NCs-silica composite phosphor functionalized with surface phenyl molecules (CsPbBr₃ -SiO₂ ^Ph ) is synthesized by controlling low-temperature hydrolysis and condensation reaction of perhydropolysilazane in the presence of CsPbBr₃ NCs followed by phenyl-functionalization. Through the process, CsPbBr₃ NCs are confined in a compact silica matrix, which is impermeable to H₂ O. The synthesis strategy is extended to a classical red quantum dot, CdZnSeS@ZnS NCs, to fabricate a white light emitting diode (WLED) consisting of CsPbBr₃ -SiO₂ ^Ph and CdZnSeS@ZnS-SiO₂ ^Ph phosphor and silicone resin packaged on a commercial blue InGaN chip with luminous efficacy (LE) of 9.36 lm W^-1 . The WLED undergoes enhancements in both green and red photoluminescence over time to achieve a highly efficient performance of 38.80 lm W^-1 . More importantly, the WLED exhibits unprecedented operational stability of LE/LE₀  = 94% after 101 h-operation at 20 mA (2.56 V). The ultra-high operational stability and efficient performance are mainly attributed to thermal curing and aging through which grain growth occurs as well as deactivation of defect states by permeated atmospheric O₂ .

Light-Induced Phase Segregation Evolution of All-Inorganic Mixed Halide Perovskites

Light-induced phase segregation in mixed halide perovskites is a major roadblock for commercialization of optoelectronics utilizing these materials. We investigate the phenomenon in a model material system consisting of only surfaces and the bulk of a single-crystalline-like microplate. We utilize environmental in-situ time-dependent photoluminescence spectroscopy to observe the bandgap evolution of phase segregation under illumination. This enables analysis of the evolution of the iodide-rich phase composition as a function of the environment (i.e., surface defects) and carrier concentration. Our study provides microscopic insights into the relationship among photocarrier generations, surface structural defects, and subsequently iodide ion migrations that result in the complex evolution of phase segregation. We elucidate the significance of surface defects with respect to the evolution of phase segregation, which may provide new perspectives for modulating ion migration by engineering of defects and carrier concentrations.

Responsive Optical Materials Based on Ligand-Free Perovskite Quantum Dots Embedded in Mesoporous Scaffolds

Herein we show that dispersing inorganic cesium lead bromide (CsPbBr₃) perovskite quantum dots (QDs) in optical quality films, possessing an accessible and controlled pore size distribution, gives rise to fluorescent materials with a controlled and highly sensitive response to ambient changes. A scaffold-based synthesis approach is employed to obtain ligand-free QDs, whose pristine surface endows them with high sensitivity to the presence of different vapors in their vicinity. At the same time, the void network of the host offers a means to gradually expose the embedded QDs to such vapors. Under these conditions, the luminescent response of the QDs is mediated by the mesostructure of the matrix, which determines the rate at which vapor molecules will adsorb onto the pore walls and, eventually, condensate, filling the void space. With luminescence quantum yields as high as 60%, scaffold-supported ligand-free perovskite nanocrystals display intense photoemission signals over the whole process, as well as high photo- and chemical stability, which allows illuminating them for long periods of time and recovering the original response upon desorption of the condensed phase. The results herein presented open a new route to explore the application of perovskite QD-based materials in sensing.

Self-Healing Ability of Perovskites Observed via Photoluminescence Response on Nanoscale Local Forces and Mechanical Damage

The photoluminescence (PL) of metal halide perovskites can recover after light or current-induced degradation. This self-healing ability is tested by acting mechanically on MAPbI3 polycrystalline microcrystals by an atomic force microscope tip (applying force, scratching, and cutting) while monitoring the PL. Although strain and crystal damage induce strong PL quenching, the initial balance between radiative and nonradiative processes in the microcrystals is restored within a few minutes. The stepwise quenching-recovery cycles induced by the mechanical action is interpreted as a modulation of the PL blinking behavior. This study proposes that the dynamic equilibrium between active and inactive states of the metastable nonradiative recombination centers causing blinking is perturbed by strain. Reversible stochastic transformation of several nonradiative centers per microcrystal under application/release of the local stress can lead to the observed PL quenching and recovery. Fitting the experimental PL trajectories by a phenomenological model based on viscoelasticity provides a characteristic time of strain relaxation in MAPbI3 on the order of 10-100 s. The key role of metastable defect states in nonradiative losses and in the self-healing properties of perovskites is suggested.

The role of atmospheric conditions in the nonradiative recombination in individual CH3NH3PbI3 perovskite crystals

Organic-inorganic metal halide perovskites have been emerging as potential candidates for lightweight photovoltaic applications in space. However, fundamental physics concerning the effect of atmosphere on the radiative and nonradiative recombination in perovskites remains far from well understood. Here, we investigate the creation and annihilation of nonradiative recombination centers in individual CH₃NH₃PbI₃ perovskite crystals by controlling the atmospheric conditions. We find that the photoluminescence (PL) of individual perovskite crystals can be quenched upon exposure from air to vacuum, while the subsequent PL enhancement in air shows a pressure dependence. Further analysis attributes the PL decline in vacuum to the activation of nonradiative trap sites, which is likely due to the lattice distortion caused by the variation of local strain on perovskites. With a gradual increase of the air pressure, the light-assisted chemisorption of oxygen on perovskite will passivate these nonradiative trap sites while simultaneously restoring the lattice imperfection, leading to PL enhancement. The present findings suggest that placing the perovskite in an environment with moderate oxygen content can protect the material from photophysical losses that can be pronounced under inert conditions.

Highly efficient green emission Cs4PbBr6 quantum dots with stable water endurance

To date, quantum dots (QDs) based on perovskite materials with high photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) and stability have rarely been reported. In this work, Cs₄PbBr₆ QDs glass ceramic with high PLQY and water stability is obtained, and the research results confirm that the strong green emission originates from the trapping of free excitons by internal Br vacancies. The rise of Br vacancies and the spontaneous growth of multi-morphology Cs₄PbBr₆ QDs under the influence of air humidity increase the PLQY to 89.62%. Compared with pure QDs, the Cs₄PbBr₆ QDs maintain high-intensity luminescence after being immersed in water for up to 150 days. In short, this paper puts forward a new, to the best of our knowledge, and valuable perspective for investigating the luminescence of Cs₄PbBr₆ QDs glass ceramic derived from related work.

Self-Healing and Light-Soaking in MAPbI3 : The Effect of H2 O

The future of halide perovskites (HaPs) is beclouded by limited understanding of their long-term stability. While HaPs can be altered by radiation that induces multiple processes, they can also return to their original state by "self-healing." Here two-photon (2P) absorption is used to effect light-induced modifications within MAPbI₃ single crystals. Then the changes in the photodamaged region are followed by measuring the photoluminescence, from 2P absorption with 2.5 orders of magnitude lower intensity than that used for photodamaging the MAPbI₃ . After photodamage, two brightening and one darkening process are found, all of which recover but on different timescales. The first two are attributed to trap-filling (the fastest) and to proton-amine-related chemistry (the slowest), while photodamage is attributed to the lead-iodide sublattice. Surprisingly, while after 2P-irradiation of crystals that are stored in dry, inert ambient, photobrightening (or "light-soaking") occurs, mostly photodarkening is seen after photodamage in humid ambient, showing an important connection between the self-healing of a HaP and the presence of H₂ O, for long-term steady-state illumination, practically no difference remains between samples kept in dry or humid environments. This result suggests that photobrightening requires a chemical-reservoir that is sensitive to the presence of H₂ O, or possibly other proton-related, particularly amine, chemistry.

Reversible Photochromism in ⟨110⟩ Oriented Layered Halide Perovskite

Extending halide perovskites' optoelectronic properties to stimuli-responsive chromism enables switchable optoelectronics, information display, and smart window applications. Here, we demonstrate a band gap tunability (chromism) via crystal structure transformation from three-dimensional FAPbBr₃ to a ⟨110⟩ oriented FA_n+2Pb_nBr_3n+2 structure using a mono-halide/cation composition (FA/Pb) tuning. Furthermore, we illustrate reversible photochromism in halide perovskite by modulating the intermediate n phase in the FA_n+2Pb_nBr_3n+2 structure, enabling greater control of the optical band gap and luminescence of a ⟨110⟩ oriented mono-halide/cation perovskite. Proton transfer reaction-mass spectroscopy carried out to precisely quantify the decomposition product reveals that the organic solvent in the film is a key contributor to the structural transformation and, therefore, the chromism in the ⟨110⟩ structure. These intermediate n phases (2 ≤ n ≤ ∞) stabilize in metastable states in the FA_n+2Pb_nBr_3n+2 system, which is accessible via strain or optical or thermal input. The structure reversibility in the ⟨110⟩ perovskite allowed us to demonstrate a class of photochromic sensors capable of self-adaptation to lighting.

Nanoscale chemical heterogeneity dominates the optoelectronic response of alloyed perovskite solar cells

Halide perovskites perform remarkably in optoelectronic devices. However, this exceptional performance is striking given that perovskites exhibit deep charge-carrier traps and spatial compositional and structural heterogeneity, all of which should be detrimental to performance. Here, we resolve this long-standing paradox by providing a global visualization of the nanoscale chemical, structural and optoelectronic landscape in halide perovskite devices, made possible through the development of a new suite of correlative, multimodal microscopy measurements combining quantitative optical spectroscopic techniques and synchrotron nanoprobe measurements. We show that compositional disorder dominates the optoelectronic response over a weaker influence of nanoscale strain variations even of large magnitude. Nanoscale compositional gradients drive carrier funnelling onto local regions associated with low electronic disorder, drawing carrier recombination away from trap clusters associated with electronic disorder and leading to high local photoluminescence quantum efficiency. These measurements reveal a global picture of the competitive nanoscale landscape, which endows enhanced defect tolerance in devices through spatial chemical disorder that outcompetes both electronic and structural disorder.

Unraveling the varied nature and roles of defects in hybrid halide perovskites with time-resolved photoemission electron microscopy

With rapidly growing photoconversion efficiencies, hybrid perovskite solar cells have emerged as promising contenders for next generation, low-cost photovoltaic technologies. Yet, the presence of nanoscale defect clusters, that form during the fabrication process, remains critical to overall device operation, including efficiency and long-term stability. To successfully deploy hybrid perovskites, we must understand the nature of the different types of defects, assess their potentially varied roles in device performance, and understand how they respond to passivation strategies. Here, by correlating photoemission and synchrotron-based scanning probe X-ray microscopies, we unveil three different types of defect clusters in state-of-the-art triple cation mixed halide perovskite thin films. Incorporating ultrafast time-resolution into our photoemission measurements, we show that defect clusters originating at grain boundaries are the most detrimental for photocarrier trapping, while lead iodide defect clusters are relatively benign. Hexagonal polytype defect clusters are only mildly detrimental individually, but can have a significant impact overall if abundant in occurrence. We also show that passivating defects with oxygen in the presence of light, a previously used approach to improve efficiency, has a varied impact on the different types of defects. Even with just mild oxygen treatment, the grain boundary defects are completely healed, while the lead iodide defects begin to show signs of chemical alteration. Our findings highlight the need for multi-pronged strategies tailored to selectively address the detrimental impact of the different defect types in hybrid perovskite solar cells.

Chemical Control of the Dimensionality of the Octahedral Network of Solar Absorbers from the CuI-AgI-BiI3 Phase Space by Synthesis of 3D CuAgBiI5

A newly reported compound, CuAgBiI₅, is synthesized as powder, crystals, and thin films. The structure consists of a 3D octahedral Ag⁺/Bi³⁺ network as in spinel, but occupancy of the tetrahedral interstitials by Cu⁺ differs from those in spinel. The 3D octahedral network of CuAgBiI₅ allows us to identify a relationship between octahedral site occupancy (composition) and octahedral motif (structure) across the whole CuI–AgI–BiI₃ phase field, giving the ability to chemically control structural dimensionality. To investigate composition–structure–property relationships, we compare the basic optoelectronic properties of CuAgBiI₅ with those of Cu₂AgBiI₆ (which has a 2D octahedral network) and reveal a surprisingly low sensitivity to the dimensionality of the octahedral network. The absorption onset of CuAgBiI₅ (2.02 eV) barely changes compared with that of Cu₂AgBiI₆ (2.06 eV) indicating no obvious signs of an increase in charge confinement. Such behavior contrasts with that for lead halide perovskites which show clear confinement effects upon lowering dimensionality of the octahedral network from 3D to 2D. Changes in photoluminescence spectra and lifetimes between the two compounds mostly derive from the difference in extrinsic defect densities rather than intrinsic effects. While both materials show good stability, bulk CuAgBiI₅ powder samples are found to be more sensitive to degradation under solar irradiation compared to Cu₂AgBiI₆.

We describe a way to chemically control the octahedral network of potentially useful photovoltaic solar absorbers in the CuI−AgI−BiI₃ phase space by the synthesis of CuAgBiI₅ with a 3D octahedral network. We compare the photostability of CuAgBiI₅ bulk samples and the absorption coefficient and photoluminescence of solution processed thin films with those of Cu₂AgBiI₆, which has a 2D octahedral network. This helps to understand structure−property relationships to direct further materials optimization.

Fabrication of Robust and Porous Lead Chloride-Based Metal-Organic Frameworks toward a Selective and Sensitive Smart NH3 Sensor

Organolead halide materials have shown promising optoelectronic properties that are suitable for light-emitting diodes (e.g., strong photoluminescence, narrow emission width, and high charge carrier mobility). However, the vast majority of them have no open porosity or open metal sites for host-guest interactions and are therefore not widely applicable in intrinsic fluorescent sensing of small molecules. Herein, we report a lead chloride-based metal-organic framework (MOF) with high porosity and stability and promising photoluminescent characteristics, performing as a sensitive, selective, and long-term stable fluorescence probe for NH3. For the first time, a homemade dynamic real-time photoluminescence monitoring system was developed, which showed that our haloplumbate-based MOF has an immediate response and an extremely low limit of detection (12 ppm) toward NH3. A variety of experimental characterization and theoretical calculations evidenced that the photoluminescence quenching was ascribed to the coordination between NH3 guests and exposed Pb2+ centers in MOFs. Moreover, a portable on-site smart NH3 detector was designed based on this haloplumbate-MOF using a 3D printer, and the quantitative recovery experiment demonstrated the effective detection of NH3 in the range of 15-150 ppm. This study opens a new pathway to design organolead halide-based MOFs to perform on-site chemical sensing of small molecules and shows their high potential to monitor safety concentrations of NH3 in different industrial sites.

Highly Selective Self-Powered Organic-Inorganic Hybrid Heterojunction of a Halide Perovskite and InGaZnO NO2 Sensor

Self-powered sensors can lead to disruptive advances in self-sustainable sensing systems that are imperative for evolving human lifestyles. For the first time, we demonstrate the fabrication of a heterojunction sensor using p-type hybrid-halide perovskites (CH₃NH₃PbBr₃) and an n-type semiconducting metal oxide thin film [InGaZnO (IGZO)] for the detection of NO₂ gas and power generation. Combining the excellent photoelectric properties of perovskites and the remarkable gas-sensing properties of IGZO at room temperature, the devised sensors generate open-circuit voltage and modulate according to the ambient NO₂ concentration. The major challenge in devising self-powered gas sensors is to attain harvesting capability and selectivity simultaneously, owing to perovskites reactivity in the presence of oxygen and humidity. In this work, we developed a novel approach and fabricated a heterojunction sensor using parylene-c as an additional layer to curb the cross-sensitivity and to enhance the selectivity of the sensor. Even under the low concentrations of NO₂, the developed sensor exhibits remarkable sensitivity, selectivity, and repeatability. The devices are sensitive and robust even under extreme humidity conditions (80% R_H) and synthetic air. The devised sensor configuration is one way to eliminate the cross-sensitivity issue of the perovskite-based devices and serves as a reference for the development of self-powered sensors.

Exploring Transport Behavior in Hybrid Perovskites Solar Cells via Machine Learning Analysis of Environmental-Dependent Impedance Spectroscopy

Hybrid organic-inorganic perovskites are one of the promising candidates for the next-generation semiconductors due to their superlative optoelectronic properties. However, one of the limiting factors for potential applications is their chemical and structural instability in different environments. Herein, the stability of (FAPbI₃ )_0.85 (MAPbBr₃ )_0.15 perovskite solar cell is explored in different atmospheres using impedance spectroscopy. An equivalent circuit model and distribution of relaxation times (DRTs) are used to effectively analyze impedance spectra. DRT is further analyzed via machine learning workflow based on the non-negative matrix factorization of reconstructed relaxation time spectra. This exploration provides the interplay of charge transport dynamics and recombination processes under environment stimuli and illumination. The results reveal that in the dark, oxygen atmosphere induces an increased hole concentration with less ionic character while ionic motion is dominant under ambient air. Under 1 Sun illumination, the environment-dependent impedance responses show a more striking effect compared with dark conditions. In this case, the increased transport resistance observed under oxygen atmosphere in equivalent circuit analysis arises due to interruption of photogenerated hole carriers. The results not only shed light on elucidating transport mechanisms of perovskite solar cells in different environments but also offer an effective interpretation of impedance responses.

Effect of Light-Induced Halide Segregation on the Performance of Mixed-Halide Perovskite Solar Cells

Light-induced halide segregation hampers obtaining stable wide-band-gap solar cells based on mixed iodide-bromide perovskites. So far, the effect of prolonged illumination on the performance of mixed-halide perovskite solar cells has not been studied in detail. It is often assumed that halide segregation leads to a loss of open-circuit voltage. By simultaneously recording changes in photoluminescence and solar cell performance under prolonged illumination, we demonstrate that cells instead deteriorate by a loss of short-circuit current density and that the open-circuit voltage is less affected. The concurrent red shift, increased lifetime, and higher quantum yield of photoluminescence point to the formation of relatively emissive iodide-rich domains under illumination. Kinetic Monte Carlo simulations provide an atomistic insight into their formation via exchange of bromide and iodide, mediated by halide vacancies. Localization of photogenerated charge carriers in low-energy iodide-rich domains and subsequent recombination cause reduced photocurrent and red-shifted photoluminescence. The loss in photovoltaic performance is diminished by partially replacing organic cations by cesium ions. Ultrasensitive photocurrent spectroscopy shows that cesium ions result in a lower density of sub-band-gap defects and suppress defect growth under illumination. These defects are expected to play a role in the development and recovery of light-induced compositional changes.

Photostable and Uniform CH3NH3PbI3 Perovskite Film Prepared via Stoichiometric Modification and Solvent Engineering

Solution-processed organometal halide perovskites (OMHPs) have been widely used in optoelectronic devices, and have exhibited brilliant performance. One of their generally recognized advantages is their easy fabrication procedure. However, such a procedure also brings uncertainty about the opto-electric properties of the final samples and devices, including morphology, stability, coverage ratio, and defect concentration. Normally, one needs to find a balanced condition, because there is a competitive relation between these parameters. In this work, we fabricated CH₃NH₃PbI₃ films by carefully changing the ratio of the PbI₂ to CH₃NH₃I, and found that the stoichiometric and solvent engineering not only determined the photoluminescence efficiency and defects in the materials, but also affected the photostability, morphology, and coverage ratio. Combining solvent engineering and the substitution of PbI₂ by Pb(Ac)₂, we obtained an optimized fabrication condition, providing uniform CH₃NH₃PbI₃ films with both high photoluminescence efficiency and high photostability under either I-rich or Pb-rich conditions. These results provide an optimized fabrication procedure for CH₃NH₃PbI₃ and other OMHP films, which is crucial for the performance of perovskite-based solar cells and light emitting devices.

Environment-Induced Reversible Modulation of Optical and Electronic Properties of Lead Halide Perovskites and Possible Applications to Sensor Development: A Review

Lead halide perovskites are currently widely investigated as active materials in photonic and optoelectronic devices. While the lack of long term stability actually limits their application to commercial devices, several experiments demonstrated that beyond the irreversible variation of the material properties due to degradation, several possibilities exist to reversibly modulate the perovskite characteristics by acting on the environmental conditions. These results clear the way to possible applications of lead halide perovskites to resistive and optical sensors. In this review we will describe the current state of the art of the comprehension of the environmental effects on the optical and electronic properties of lead halide perovskites, and of the exploitation of these results for the development of perovskite-based sensors.

Deactivation/Activation of Quenching Defects in CH3NH3PbI3 Perovskite by Direct Electron Injection/Extraction

Organometal halide perovskites (OMHPs) have emerged as advisible materials for application in optoelectronic devices over the past decade. However, a variety of complex slow responses in OMHPs under an external electric field have been observed, and the mechanisms for these responses remain a topic of intense debate. In this work, with an external voltage applied to the CH₃NH₃PbI₃ crystal, reversible photoluminescence (PL) enhancement and quenching behaviors respectively near the anode and the cathode were observed under wide-field fluorescence microscopy. Further experiments attribute the reversible PL enhancing responses to the electron injection effect increasing the radiative recombination, while PL quenching was attributed to be due to the electron extraction effect increasing the nonradiative recombination. The control of PL by external applied voltage indicates brilliant carrier mobility in the CH₃NH₃PbI₃ crystal and also reminds us to focus on the effect of hole/electron injection on the materials which may limit the performance of perovskite-based optoelectronic devices.

Competition between Oxygen Curing and Ion Migration in MAPbI3 Induced by Irradiation Exposure

Organometal halide perovskites (OHPs) have been considered as promising materials for light-emission devices. However, the factors influencing the luminescent property of OHPs are intricate. It is not only affected by the intrinsic crystalline quality but also depends on the surrounding environment. Here we demonstrate that the luminescence of CH₃NH₃PbI₃ (MAPbI₃) is governed by light-irradiation-induced oxygen curing and vacancy-mediated ion migration. The luminescence increases under continuous irradiation because of the curing of iodine vacancies (V_I) by oxygen. While, it decreases with enhanced ion migration, which would induce excess trap states. The existence of V_I is proved by low-temperature photoluminescence (PL) spectra, the hysteresis effect in J-V curves, and the excitation density dependence of the PL lifetime. Different oxygen environments and applied biases are employed to control the degree of oxygen curving and ion migration. These results provide a perception of the correlation of the complicated influencing factors affecting the luminescence of OHPs.

Inhibition of Phase Segregation in Cesium Lead Mixed-Halide Perovskites by B-Site Doping

The emergence of all-inorganic halide perovskites has shown great potential in photovoltaic and optoelectronic devices. However, the photo-induced phase segregation in lead mixed-halide perovskites has severely limited their application. Herein, by real-time monitoring the photoluminescence (PL) spectra of metal mixed-halide perovskites under light irradiation, we found that the photo-induced phase transition can be significantly inhibited by B-site doping. For pristine mixed-halide perovskites, an intermediate phase of CsPbBr_xI_3-x can only be stabilized under low excitation power. After introducing Sn²⁺ ions, such intermediate phase can be stabilized in nitrogen atmosphere under high excitation power and phase segregation can be started after the exposure in oxygen due to oxidization of Sn²⁺. Replacing Sn²⁺ by Mn²⁺ can further improve the intermediate phase's tolerance to oxygen proving that B-site doping in perovskites structure by Sn²⁺ or Mn²⁺ could effectively minimize the light-induced phase segregation and promote them to serve as promising candidates in photovoltaic and light-emitting devices.

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Phase segregation process of perovskite materials can be real-time monitored by PL

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Sn²⁺/Mn²⁺ doping can significantly improve the phase stability of CsPbI_xBr_3-x

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Mn²⁺ doping brings CsPbI_xBr_3-x higher tolerance to oxygen and moisture

Shining Emitter in a Stable Host: Design of Halide Perovskite Scintillators for X-ray Imaging from Commercial Concept

Halide perovskite (HP) nanocrystals (NCs) have recently shown great potential for X-ray detection and imaging. However, the practical application still has a long way to go with many technical requirements waiting to be fulfilled, including structure optimization, stability enhancement, and cost reduction. A design principle in this beginning stage is urgently needed but still lacking. Herein, with an "emitter-in-matrix" principle refined from commercial scintillators, CsPbBr₃@Cs₄PbBr₆ with emissive CsPbBr₃ NCs embedded inside a solid-state Cs₄PbBr₆ host is subjected to X-ray sensing and imaging. The Cs₄PbBr₆ matrix not only enhances the attenuation of X-rays but also dramatically improves the stability of CsPbBr₃ NCs. A favorable optical design with the Cs₄PbBr₆ matrix being transparent to the emission from CsPbBr₃ NCs enables efficient light output. As a result, stable and sensitive scintillation response to X-ray signals is demonstrated with superior linearity and ultrahigh time resolution. In order to show the huge potential for practical applications, X-ray imaging using a large-area film (360 mm × 240 mm) by the blade-coating technique is carried out to obtain a high-quality image of interior structures invisible to the human eye. In addition to the above advantages in optics, CsPbBr₃@Cs₄PbBr₆ also enjoys facile solution synthesis with large scalability, excellent repeatability, and low cost.

Reversible luminescent humidity chromism of organic-inorganic hybrid PEA2MnBr4 single crystals

Organic-inorganic hybrids have drawn great attention for gas sensors due to their high sensitivity, good selectivity and acceptable stability at room temperature. There are two main approaches by which organic-inorganic hybrids convert gas information to electric or optical signals (vapochromism). Here, we have reported a new organic-inorganic hybrid PEA₂MnBr₄ for humidity detection by luminescent visible chromism. PEA₂MnBr₄ single crystals were grown by the solution method and determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Luminescent humidity chromism was found on PEA₂MnBr₄ from green emission at the water-desorption state to pink emission at the water-adsorption state within 18 s at a relative humidity of 38% RH. This obviously visible chromism was further used to check the water content in toluene with a low detection limit between 0.02 and 0.05 vol%.

Facile and noninvasive passivation, doping and chemical tuning of macroscopic hybrid perovskite crystals

Halide vacancies and associated metallic lead (Pb°) observed at the surface and deep inside macroscopic organolead trihalide perovskite crystals is removed through a facile and noninvasive treatment. Indeed, Br₂ vapor is shown to passivate Br-vacancies and associated Pb° in the bulk of macroscopic crystals. Controlling the exposure time can markedly improve the overall stoichiometry for moderate exposures or introduce excessive bromide for long exposures, resulting in p-doping of the crystals. In the low dose passivation regime, Hall effect measurements reveal a ca. 3-fold increase in carrier mobility to ca. 15 cm²V^-1s^-1, while the p-doping increases the electrical conductivity ca. 10000-fold, including a 50-fold increase in carrier mobility to ca. 150 cm²V^-1s^-1. The ease of diffusion of Br₂ vapor into macroscopic crystals is ascribed to the porosity allowed in rapidly grown crystals through aggregative processes of the colloidal sol during growth of films and macroscopic crystals. This process is believed to form significant growth defects, including open voids, which may be remnants of the escaping solvent at the solidification front. These results suggest that due to the sol-gel-like nature of the growth process, macroscopic perovskite crystals reported in this study are far from perfect and point to possible pathways to improving the optoelectronic properties of these materials. Nevertheless, the ability of the vapor-phase approach to access and tune the bulk chemistry and properties of nominally macroscopic perovskite crystals provides interesting new opportunities to precisely manipulate and functionalize the bulk properties of hybrid perovskite crystals in a noninvasive manner.

Dynamic Passivation in Perovskite Quantum Dots for Specific Ammonia Detection at Room Temperature

Perovskite structured CsPbX₃ (X = Cl, Br, or I) quantum dots (QDs) have attracted considerable interest in the past few years due to their excellent optoelectronic properties. Surface passivation is one of the main pathways to optimize the optoelectrical performance of perovskite QDs, in which the amino group plays an important role for the corresponding interaction between lead and halide. In this work, it is found that ammonia gas could dramatically increase photoluminescence of purified QDs and effectively passivate surface defects of perovskite QDs introduced during purification, which is a reversible process. This phenomenon makes perovskite QDs a kind of ideal candidate for detection of ammonia gas at room temperature. This QD film sensor displays specific recognition behavior toward ammonia gas due to its significant fluorescence enhancement, while depressed luminescence in case of other gases. The sensor, in turn-on mode, shows a wide detection range from 25 to 350 ppm with a limit of detection as low as 8.85 ppm. Meanwhile, a fast response time of ≈10 s is achieved, and the recovery time is ≈30 s. The fully reversible, high sensitivity and selectivity characteristics make CsPbBr₃ QDs ideal active materials for room-temperature ammonia sensing.

Position-locking of volatile reaction products by atmosphere and capping layers slows down photodecomposition of methylammonium lead triiodide perovskite

The remarkable progress of metal halide perovskites in photovoltaics has led to the power conversion efficiency approaching 26%. However, practical applications of perovskite-based solar cells are challenged by the stability issues, of which the most critical one is photo-induced degradation. Bare CH₃NH₃PbI₃ perovskite films are known to decompose rapidly, with methylammonium and iodine as volatile species and residual solid PbI₂ and metallic Pb, under vacuum under white light illumination, on the timescale of minutes. We find, in agreement with previous work, that the degradation is non-uniform and proceeds predominantly from the surface, and that illumination under N₂ and ambient air (relative humidity 20%) does not induce substantial degradation even after several hours. Yet, in all cases the release of iodine from the perovskite surface is directly identified by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. This goes in hand with a loss of organic cations and the formation of metallic Pb. When CH₃NH₃PbI₃ films are covered with a few nm thick organic capping layer, either charge selective or non-selective, the rapid photodecomposition process under ultrahigh vacuum is reduced by more than one order of magnitude, and becomes similar in timescale to that under N₂ or air. We conclude that the light-induced decomposition reaction of CH₃NH₃PbI₃, leading to volatile methylammonium and iodine, is largely reversible as long as these products are restrained from leaving the surface. This is readily achieved by ambient atmospheric pressure, as well as a thin organic capping layer even under ultrahigh vacuum. In addition to explaining the impact of gas pressure on the stability of this perovskite, our results indicate that covalently “locking” the position of perovskite components at the surface or an interface should enhance the overall photostability.

Gas pressure and capping layers under ultrahigh vacuum prevent methylammonium lead triiodide photo-degradation due to efficient back-reaction of volatile compounds.

Unravelling the effects of oxidation state of interstitial iodine and oxygen passivation on charge trapping and recombination in CH3NH3PbI3 perovskite: a time-domain ab initio study

Understanding nonradiative charge recombination mechanisms is a prerequisite for advancing perovskite solar cells. By performing time-domain density functional theory combined with nonadiabatic (NA) molecular dynamics simulations, we show that electron-hole recombination in perovskites strongly depends on the oxidation state of interstitial iodine and oxygen passivation. The simulations demonstrate that electron-hole recombination in CH3NH3PbI3 occurs within several nanoseconds, agreeing well with experiment. The negative interstitial iodine delays charge recombination by a factor of 1.3. The deceleration is attributed to the fact that interstitial iodine anion forms a chemical bond with its nearest lead atoms, eliminates the trap state, and decreases the NA electron-phonon coupling. The positive interstitial iodine attracts its neighbouring lattice iodine anions, resulting in the formation of an I-trimer and producing an electron trap. Electron trapping proceeds on a very fast timescale, tens of picoseconds, and captures the majority of free electrons available to directly recombine with free holes while inhibiting the recombination of free electrons and holes, delaying the recombination by a factor of 1.5. However, the positive interstitial iodine easily converts to a neutral iodine defect by capturing an electron, giving rise to a singly occupied state above the valence band maximum and acting as a hole trap. The photoexcitation valence band hole becomes trapped by the hole trap state very rapidly, followed by acceleration of recombination with the conduction band free electron by a factor of 1.6. Surprisingly, molecular oxygen interacting with interstitial iodine anion forms a stable IO3 -1 species, which inhibits ion migration, stabilizes perovskites, and suppresses the electron-hole recombination by a factor of 2.7. Our simulations reveal the microscopic effects of the oxidation state of interstitial iodine defects and oxygen passivation in perovskites, suggesting an effective way to improve perovskite photovoltaic and optoelectronic devices.

Light-activated inorganic CsPbBr2I perovskite for room-temperature self-powered chemical sensing

Halide perovskite materials are excellent light harvesters that have generated enormous interest for photovoltaic technology and an increasing number of other optoelectronic applications. Very recently, their use for miniaturized chemical sensors has shown a promising room-temperature response. Here, we present some insights on the use of CsPbBr2I (CPBI) perovskites for self-powered room-temperature sensing of several environmentally and medically relevant compounds demonstrating rapid detection of down to concentrations of 1 ppm. Notably, the photocurrent of these self-powered CPBI-based devices increases under exposure to both reducing (e.g. acetone, propane) and oxidizing (e.g. NO2, O2) gas molecules and decreases rapidly upon reverting to an inert atmosphere. In situ photoluminescence (PL) analysis of the CPBI during exposure to oxidizing molecules reveals a strongly increased PL intensity and longer lifetime indicating a prevalent role of CPBI trap states in the sensing mechanism. These findings provide new insights for the engineering of perovskite-based materials for their future chemical sensing applications.

Defect Activity in Lead Halide Perovskites

The presence of various types of chemical interactions in metal-halide perovskite semiconductors gives them a characteristic "soft" fluctuating structure, prone to a wide set of defects. Understanding of the nature of defects and their photochemistry is summarized, which leverages the cooperative action of density functional theory investigations and accurate experimental design. This knowledge is used to describe how defect activity determines the macroscopic properties of the material and related devices. Finally, a discussion of the open questions provides a path towards achieving an educated prediction of device operation, necessary to engineer reliable devices.

Strategies to Improve Luminescence Efficiency of Metal-Halide Perovskites and Light-Emitting Diodes

Metal-halide perovskites (MHPs) are well suited to be vivid natural color emitters due to their superior optical and electrical properties, such as narrow emission linewidths, easily and widely tunable emission wavelengths, low material cost, and high charge carrier mobility. Since the first development of MHP light-emitting diodes (PeLEDs) in 2014, many researchers have tried to understand the properties of MHP emitters and the limitations to luminescence efficiency (LE) of PeLEDs, and have devoted efforts to increase the LE of MHP emitters and PeLEDs. Within three and half years, PeLEDs have shown rapidly increased LE from external quantum efficiency ≈0.1% to ≈14.36%. Herein, the factors that limit the LE of PeLEDs are reviewed; the factors are characterized into the following groups: i) photophysical properties of MHP crystals, ii) morphological factors of MHP layers, and iii) problems caused by device architectures. Then, the strategies to overcome those luminescence-limiting factors in MHP emitters and PeLEDs are critically evaluated. Finally, research directions to further increase the LE of MHP emitters and the potential of MHPs as a core component in next-generation displays and solid-state lightings are suggested.

The Physics of Light Emission in Halide Perovskite Devices

Light emission is a critical property that must be maximized and controlled to reach the performance limits in optoelectronic devices such as photovoltaic solar cells and light-emitting diodes. Halide perovskites are an exciting family of materials for these applications owing to uniquely promising attributes that favor strong luminescence in device structures. Herein, the current understanding of the physics of light emission in state-of-the-art metal-halide perovskite devices is presented. Photon generation and management, and how these can be further exploited in device structures, are discussed. Key processes involved in photoluminescence and electroluminescence in devices as well as recent efforts to reduce nonradiative losses in neat films and interfaces are discussed. Finally, pathways toward reaching device efficiency limits and how the unique properties of perovskites provide a tremendous opportunity to significantly disrupt both the power generation and lighting industries are outlined.

A Highly Emissive Surface Layer in Mixed-Halide Multication Perovskites

Mixed-halide lead perovskites have attracted significant attention in the field of photovoltaics and other optoelectronic applications due to their promising bandgap tunability and device performance. Here, the changes in photoluminescence and photoconductance of solution-processed triple-cation mixed-halide (Cs_0.06 MA_0.15 FA_0.79 )Pb(Br_0.4 I_0.6 )₃ perovskite films (MA: methylammonium, FA: formamidinium) are studied under solar-equivalent illumination. It is found that the illumination leads to localized surface sites of iodide-rich perovskite intermixed with passivating PbI₂ material. Time- and spectrally resolved photoluminescence measurements reveal that photoexcited charges efficiently transfer to the passivated iodide-rich perovskite surface layer, leading to high local carrier densities on these sites. The carriers on this surface layer therefore recombine with a high radiative efficiency, with the photoluminescence quantum efficiency of the film under solar excitation densities increasing from 3% to over 45%. At higher excitation densities, nonradiative Auger recombination starts to dominate due to the extremely high concentration of charges on the surface layer. This work reveals new insight into phase segregation of mixed-halide mixed-cation perovskites, as well as routes to highly luminescent films by controlling charge density and transfer in novel device structures.

Achieving Long-Term Operational Stability of Perovskite Solar Cells with a Stabilized Efficiency Exceeding 20% after 1000 h

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) with mesoporous TiO2 (mp-TiO2) as the electron transport material attain power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) above 22%; however, their poor long-term stability is a critical issue that must be resolved for commercialization. Herein, it is demonstrated that the long-term operational stability of mp-TiO2 based PSCs with PCE over 20% is achieved by isolating devices from oxygen and humidity. This achievement attributes to systematic understanding of the critical role of oxygen in the degradation of PSCs. PSCs exhibit fast degradation under controlled oxygen atmosphere and illumination, which is accompanied by iodine migration into the hole transport material (HTM). A diffusion barrier at the HTM/perovskite interface or encapsulation on top of the devices improves the stability against oxygen under light soaking. Notably, a mp-TiO2 based PSC with a solid encapsulation retains 20% efficiency after 1000 h of 1 sun (AM1.5G including UV) illumination in ambient air.

Single-Particle Organolead Halide Perovskite Photoluminescence as a Probe for Surface Reaction Kinetics

Photoluminescence (PL) of organolead halide perovskites (OHPs) is sensitive to OHPs' surface conditions and is an effective way to report surface states. Literature has reported that at the ensemble level, the PL of photoexcited OHP nanorods declines under an inert nitrogen (N₂) atmosphere and recovers under subsequent exposure to oxygen (O₂). At the single-particle level, we observed that OHP nanorods photoblink at rates dependent on both the excitation intensity and the O₂ concentration. Combining the two sets of information with the charge-trapping/detrapping mechanism, we are able to quantitatively evaluate the interaction between a single surface defect and a single O₂ molecule using a new kinetic model. The model predicts that the photodarkening of OHP nanorods in the N₂ atmosphere has a different mechanism than conventional PL quenching, which we call photo-knockout. This model provides fundamental insights into the interactions of molecular O₂ with OHP materials and helps design a suitable OHP interface for a variety of applications in photovoltaics and optoelectronics.

Perovskites for Next-Generation Optical Sources

Next-generation displays and lighting technologies require efficient optical sources that combine brightness, color purity, stability, substrate flexibility. Metal halide perovskites have potential use in a wide range of applications, for they possess excellent charge transport, bandgap tunability and, in the most promising recent optical source materials, intense and efficient luminescence. This review links metal halide perovskites' performance as efficient light emitters with their underlying materials electronic and photophysical attributes.

Environmental Gating and Galvanic Effects in Single Crystals of Organic-Inorganic Halide Perovskites

Understanding the impact of environmental gaseous on the surface of organometal halide perovskites (OMHPs) couples to the electronic and ionic transport is critically important. Here, we explore the transport behavior and origins of the gas sensitivity in MAPbBr₃ single crystals (SCs) devices using impedance spectroscopy and current relaxation measurements. Strong resistive response occurs when crystals are exposed to different environments. It was shown that SC response to the environment is extremely different at the surface as compared to the bulk due to the disorder surface chemistry. The nonlinear transport properties studied using ultrafast Kelvin probe force microscopy (G-KPFM) to unravel spatio-temporal charge dynamics at SC/electrode interface. The relaxation processes observed in pulse relaxation and G-KPFM measurements along with gas sensitivity of crystals suggest the presence of a triple-phase boundary between environment, electrode, and crystal. Results indicate that the environment is a nontrivial component in the operation of OMHP devices which is reminiscent of fuel cell systems. Furthermore, the triple-phase boundary can play a significant role in the transport properties of OMHPs due to the possibility of the redox processes coupled to the concentration of bulk ionic species. Although instrumental for understanding the device characteristics of perovskites, our studies suggest a new opportunity of coupling the redox chemistry of the Br₂-Br^- pair that defines the bulk ionic conductivity of MAPbBr₃ with the redox chemistry of gaseous (or liquid) environment via a suitable electrocatalytic system to enable new class of energy storage devices and gas sensors.

Strong Blue Emission from Sb3+-Doped Super Small CsPbBr3 Nanocrystals

Colloidal lead halide perovskite nanocrystals (NCs) have high tunability in the visible light region and high photoluminescence quantum yields (PL QYs) for green and red emissions, but bright blue emission is still a challenge. Super small CsPbBr₃ perovskite NCs emit blue light around 460 nm with a narrow peak width, and they do not have the problem of phase separation like their Cl-Br counterparts. However, the blue emission from super small CsPbBr₃ NCs easily becomes green over time, and their PL QY is still low. The doping of Sb³⁺ ions successfully reduced the surface energy, improved the lattice energy, passivated the defect states below the band gap, eventually boosted the PL QY of blue emission to 73.8%, and resulted in better spectral stability even at elevated temperatures in solution (40-100 °C). Its CIE coordinates were (0.14, 0.06), which are close to the primary blue color (0.155, 0.070) according to the NTSC TV color standard.

Mechanism of Photoluminescence Intermittency in Organic-Inorganic Perovskite Nanocrystals

Lead halide perovskite nanocrystals have demonstrated their potential as active materials for optoelectronic applications over the past few years. Nevertheless, one issue that hampers their applicability has to do with the observation of photoluminescence intermittency, commonly referred to as "blinking", as in their inorganic counterparts. Such behavior, reported for structures well above the quantum confinement regime, has been discussed to be strongly related to the presence of charge carrier traps. In this work, we analyze the characteristics of this intermittency and explore the dependence on the surrounding atmosphere, showing evidence for the critical role played by the presence of oxygen. We discuss a possible mechanism in which a constant creation/annihilation of halide-related carrier traps takes place under light irradiation, with the dominant rate being determined by the atmosphere.

An overview on enhancing the stability of lead halide perovskite quantum dots and their applications in phosphor-converted LEDs

Beyond the unprecedented success achieved in photovoltaics (PVs), lead halide perovskites (LHPs) have shown great potential in other optoelectronic devices. Among them, nanometer-scale perovskite quantum dots (PQDs) with fascinating optical properties including high brightness, tunable emission wavelength, high color purity, and high defect tolerance have been regarded as promising alternative down-conversion materials in phosphor-converted light-emitting diodes (pc-LEDs) for lighting and next-generation of display technology. Despite the promising applications of perovskite materials in various fields, they have received strong criticism for the lack of stability. The poor stability has also attracted much attention. Within a few years, numerous strategies towards enhancing the stability have been developed. This review summarizes the mechanisms of intrinsic- and extrinsic-environment-induced decomposition of PQDs. Simultaneously, the strategies for improving the stability of PQDs are reviewed in detail, which can be classified into four types: (1) compositional engineering; (2) surface engineering; (3) matrix encapsulation; (4) device encapsulation. Finally, the challenges for applying PQDs in pc-LEDs are highlighted, and some possible solutions to improve the stability of PQDs together with suggestions for further improving the performance of pc-LEDs as well as the device lifetime are provided.

Aqueous Synthesis of Lead Halide Perovskite Nanocrystals with High Water Stability and Bright Photoluminescence

Lead halide perovskite nanocrystals (NCs) have attracted intense attention because of their excellent optoelectronic properties. The ionic nature of halide perovskites makes them highly vulnerable to water. Encapsulation of perovskite NCs with inorganic or organic materials has been reported to enhance their stability; however, they often suffer from large aggregation size, low water solubility, and difficulty for further surface functionalization. Here, we report a facile aqueous process to synthesize water-soluble CsPbBr₃/Cs₄PbBr₆ NCs with the assistance of a fluorocarbon agent (FCA), which features a novel mechanism of the perovskite crystallization at the oil/water interface and direct perovskite NCs/FCA self-assembly in an aqueous environment. The products exhibit a high absolute photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) of ∼80% in water with the PL lasting for weeks. Through successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction, BaSO₄ was further applied to encapsulate the NCs, which greatly enhanced their stability in phosphate-buffered saline solutions. The high stability in water and saline solution, high PLQY, and tunable emission wavelength, together with the successful demonstration of brain tissue labeling and PL under X-ray excitation, make our perovskite NCs a promising choice for X-ray fluorescent biolabels.

Fractional deviations in precursor stoichiometry dictate the properties, performance and stability of perovskite photovoltaic devices

The last five years have witnessed remarkable progress in the field of lead halide perovskite materials and devices. Examining the existing body of literature reveals staggering inconsistencies in the reported results among different research groups with a particularly wide spread in the photovoltaic performance and stability of devices. In this work we demonstrate that fractional, quite possibly unintentional, deviations in the precursor solution stoichiometry can cause significant changes in the properties of the perovskite layer as well as in the performance and stability of perovskite photovoltaic devices. We show that while the absorbance and morphology of the layers remain largely unaffected, the surface composition and energetics, crystallinity, emission efficiency, energetic disorder and storage stability are all very sensitive to the precise stoichiometry of the precursor solution. Our results elucidate the origin of the irreproducibility and inconsistencies of reported results among different groups as well as the wide spread in device performance even within individual studies. Finally, we propose a simple experimental method to identify the exact stoichiometry of the perovskite layer that researchers can employ to confirm their experiments are performed consistently without unintentional variations in precursor stoichiometry.