Scientists are uncovering the mysteries of halide perovskites—materials that could revolutionize our future by ushering in a new era of energy-efficient optoelectronics. Two physics professors are investigating these materials on a nanoscale level, a realm that is unseen to the human eye. At this microscopic scale, the remarkable traits of halide perovskites become apparent, especially due to their unique structure of extremely thin crystals. This unique design makes them exceptionally effective at transforming sunlight into energy. Imagine solar panels that are not only cheaper but also much more effective at generating power for homes. Visualize LED lights that shine brighter, last longer, and consume less power.
University of Missouri scientists are uncovering the mysteries of halide perovskites—materials that could revolutionize our future by ushering in a new era of energy-efficient optoelectronics.
Suchi Guha and Gavin King, two physics professors from Mizzou’s College of Arts and Science, are examining halide perovskites at the nanoscale, a realm that is invisible to our eyes. Here, the unique characteristics of halide perovskites emerge, facilitated by their ultra-thin crystal structure—making them extraordinarily efficient at converting sunlight into energy.
Picture solar panels that are not just more affordable but also significantly more effective at energizing homes. Or think of LED lights that illuminate brighter and endure longer while using less electricity.
“Halide perovskites are regarded as the semiconductors of the 21st century,” stated Guha, an expert in solid-state physics. “For the past six years, my lab has been focused on enhancing these materials to serve as a sustainable resource for the next wave of optoelectronic devices.”
The researchers developed the material using a technique known as chemical vapor deposition, which was refined by Randy Burns, one of Guha’s former graduate students, in partnership with Chris Arendse from the University of the Western Cape in South Africa. This method’s scalability makes it easy to produce solar cells in large quantities.
Guha’s team investigated the basic optical properties of halide perovskites with the help of ultrafast laser spectroscopy. For optimizing the material for different electronic applications, they collaborated with King.
King, who primarily focuses on organic materials, employed a technique called ice lithography, celebrated for its capability to construct materials at the nanometer level. Ice lithography involves cooling the material to cryogenic temperatures, often below -150°C (-238°F). This extremely low-temperature technique enabled the team to develop unique features for the material using an electron beam.
He likens this technique to using a “nanometer-scale chisel.”
“By crafting intricate designs on these thin films, we can create devices with specific properties and functions,” noted King, who specializes in biological physics. “These designs serve as the foundational layer in optical electronics.”
Achieving success through teamwork
Although Guha and King specialize in different areas of physics, they both recognize that their collaboration has enriched their research and benefited their students.
“It’s thrilling because, by myself, my experimental and theoretical possibilities are limited,” Guha remarked. “But through collaboration, we gain a broader understanding and the ability to learn new concepts. For instance, Gavin’s lab investigates biological materials, and combining that with our work in solid-state physics is leading us to discover novel applications that we hadn’t previously imagined.”
King concurs.
“Everyone contributes a distinct viewpoint, which is crucial to our success,” King expressed. “If we all had the same training, we’d think in the same way, and that would hinder our collective accomplishments.”
