Pressure-Induced Phase Transformation, Reversible Amorphization, and Anomalous Visible Light Response in Organolead Bromide Perovskite

Harvesting Cool Daylight in Hybrid Organic-Inorganic Halides Microtubules through the Reservation of Pressure-Induced Emission

Pressure-induced emission (PIE) is extensively studied in halide perovskites or derivative hybrid halides. However, owing to the soft inorganic lattice of these materials, the intense emission is barely retained under ambient conditions, thus largely limiting their practical applications in optoelectronics at atmospheric pressure. Here, remarkably enhanced emission in microtubules of the 0D hybrid halide (C₅ H₇ N₂ )₂ ZnBr₄ ((4AMP)₂ ZnBr₄ ) is successfully achieved by means of pressure treatment at room temperature. Notably, the emission, which is over ten times more intense than the emission in the initial state, is retained under ambient conditions upon the complete release of pressure. Furthermore, the pressure processing enables the tuning of "sky blue light" before compression to "cool daylight" with a remarkable quantum yield of 88.52% after decompression, which is of considerable interest for applications in next-generation lighting and displays. The irreversible electronic structural transition, induced by the steric hindrance with respect to complexly configurational organic molecules [4AMP], is highly responsible for the eventual retention of PIE and tuning of the color temperature. The findings represent a significant step toward the capture of PIE under ambient conditions, thus facilitating its potential solid-state lighting applications.

Melting of hybrid organic-inorganic perovskites

Several organic-inorganic hybrid materials from the metal-organic framework (MOF) family have been shown to form stable liquids at high temperatures. Quenching then results in the formation of melt-quenched MOF glasses that retain the three-dimensional coordination bonding of the crystalline phase. These hybrid glasses have intriguing properties and could find practical applications, yet the melt-quench phenomenon has so far remained limited to a few MOF structures. Here we turn to hybrid organic-inorganic perovskites-which occupy a prominent position within materials chemistry owing to their functional properties such as ion transport, photoconductivity, ferroelectricity and multiferroicity-and show that a series of dicyanamide-based hybrid organic-inorganic perovskites undergo melting. Our combined experimental-computational approach demonstrates that, on quenching, they form glasses that largely retain their solid-state inorganic-organic connectivity. The resulting materials show very low thermal conductivities (~0.2 W m^-1 K^-1), moderate electrical conductivities (10^-3-10^-5 S m^-1) and polymer-like thermomechanical properties.

Strain in perovskite solar cells: origins, impacts and regulation

Metal halide perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have seen an extremely rapid rise in power conversion efficiencies in the past few years. However, the commercialization of this class of emerging materials still faces serious challenges, one of which is the instability against external stimuli such as moisture, heat and irradiation. Much focus has deservedly been placed on understanding the different origins of intrinsic instability and thereby enhancing their stability. Among these, tensile strain in perovskite films is an important source of instability that cannot be overcome using conventionally extrinsic stabilization approaches such as encapsulation. Here we review recent progress in the understanding of the origin of strain in perovskites as well as its corresponding characterization methods, and their impacts on the physical properties of perovskites and the performance of PSCs including efficiency and stability. We then summarize the latest advances in strain-regulation strategies that improve the intrinsic stability of perovskites and photovoltaic devices. Finally, we provide a perspective on how to make further progress in stable and high-efficiency PSCs via strain engineering.

Thin Layer Buckling in Perovskite CsPbBr3 Nanobelts

Flexible semiconductor materials, where structural fluctuations and transformation are tolerable and have low impact on electronic properties, focus interest for future applications. Two-dimensional thin layer lead halide perovskites are hailed for their unconventional optoelectronic features. We report structural deformations via thin layer buckling in colloidal CsPbBr₃ nanobelts adsorbed on carbon substrates. The microstructure of buckled nanobelts is determined using transmission electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy. We measured significant decrease in emission from the buckled nanobelt using cathodoluminescence, marking the influence of such mechanical deformations on electronic properties. By employing plate buckling theory, we approximate adhesion forces between the buckled nanobelt and the substrate to be F_adhesion ∼ 0.12 μN, marking a limit to sustain such deformation. This work highlights detrimental effects of mechanical buckling on electronic properties in halide perovskite nanostructures and points toward the capillary action that should be minimized in fabrication of future devices and heterostructures based on nanoperovskites.

Regulating Exciton-Phonon Coupling to Achieve a Near-Unity Photoluminescence Quantum Yield in One-Dimensional Hybrid Metal Halides

Low-dimensional hybrid metal halides are emerging as a highly promising class of single-component white-emitting materials for their unique broadband emission from self-trapped excitons (STEs). Despite substantial progress in the development of these metal halides, many challenges remain to be addressed to obtain a better fundamental understanding of the structure-property relationship and realize the full potentials of this class of materials. Here, via pressure regulation, a near 100% photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) of broadband emission is achieved in a corrugated 1D hybrid metal halide C5 N2 H16 Pb2 Br6 , which possesses a highly distorted structure with an initial PLQY of 10%. Compression reduces the overlap between STE states and ground state, leading to a suppressed phonon-assisted non-radiative decay. The PL evolution is systematically demonstrated to be controlled by the pressure-regulated exciton-phonon coupling which can be quantified using Huang-Rhys factor S. Detailed studies of the S-PLQY relation for a series of 1D hybrid metal halides (C5 N2 H16 Pb2 Br6 , C4 N2 H14 PbBr4 , C6 N2 H16 PbBr4 , and (C6 N2 H16 )3 Pb2 Br10 ) reveal a quantitative structure-property relationship that regulating S factor toward 28 leads to the maximum emission.

Using pulsed mode scanning electron microscopy for cathodoluminescence studies on hybrid perovskite films

The use of pulsed mode scanning electron microscopy cathodoluminescence (CL) for both hyperspectral mapping and time-resolved measurements is found to be useful for the study of hybrid perovskite films, a class of ionic semiconductors that have been shown to be beam sensitive. A range of acquisition parameters is analysed, including beam current and beam mode (either continuous or pulsed operation), and their effect on the CL emission is discussed. Under optimized acquisition conditions, using a pulsed electron beam, the heterogeneity of the emission properties of hybrid perovskite films can be resolved via the acquisition of CL hyperspectral maps. These optimized parameters also enable the acquisition of time-resolved CL of polycrystalline films, showing significantly shorter lived charge carriers dynamics compared to the photoluminescence analogue, hinting at additional electron beam-specimen interactions to be further investigated. This work represents a promising step to investigate hybrid perovskite semiconductors at the nanoscale with CL.

Harvesting High-Quality White-Light Emitting and Remarkable Emission Enhancement in One-Dimensional Halide Perovskites Upon Compression

The pressure induced emission (PIE) behavior of halide perovskites has attracted extensive interest due to its potential application in pressure sensors and trademark security. However, the PIE phenomenon of white-light-emitting hybrid perovskites (WHPs) is rare, and that at pressures above 10.0 GPa has never been reported. Here, we effectively adjusted the perovskite to emit high-quality "cold" or "warm" white light and successfully realized pressure-induced emission (PIE) upon even higher pressure up to 35.1 GPa in one-dimensional halide perovskite C₄N₂H₁₄PbCl₄. We reveal that the degree of structural distortion and the rearrangement of the multiple self-trapped states position are consistent with the intriguing photoluminescence variation, which is further supported by in situ high-pressure synchrotron X-ray diffraction experiments and time-resolved photoluminescence decay dynamics data. The underlying relationship between octahedron behavior and emission plays a key role to obtain high-quality white emission perovskites. We anticipate that this work enhances our understanding of structure-dependent self-trapped exciton (STE) emission characteristics and stimulates the design of high-performance WHPs for next generation white LED lighting devices.

Preserving a robust CsPbI3 perovskite phase via pressure-directed octahedral tilt

Functional CsPbI3 perovskite phases are not stable at ambient conditions and spontaneously convert to a non-perovskite δ phase, limiting their applications as solar cell materials. We demonstrate the preservation of a black CsPbI3 perovskite structure to room temperature by subjecting the δ phase to pressures of 0.1 - 0.6 GPa followed by heating and rapid cooling. Synchrotron X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy indicate that this perovskite phase is consistent with orthorhombic γ-CsPbI3. Once formed, γ-CsPbI3 could be then retained after releasing pressure to ambient conditions and shows substantial stability at 35% relative humidity. First-principles density functional theory calculations indicate that compression directs the out-of-phase and in-phase tilt between the [PbI6]4- octahedra which in turn tune the energy difference between δ- and γ-CsPbI3, leading to the preservation of γ-CsPbI3. Here, we present a high-pressure strategy for manipulating the (meta)stability of halide perovskites for the synthesis of desirable phases with enhanced materials functionality.

Revealing Local Disorder in a Silver-Bismuth Halide Perovskite upon Compression

The halide double perovskite Cs₂AgBiBr₆ has emerged as a promising nontoxic alternative to the lead halide perovskites APbX₃ (A = organic cation or Cs; X = I or Br). Here, we perform high-pressure synchrotron X-ray total scattering on Cs₂AgBiBr₆ and discover local disorder that is hidden from conventional Bragg analysis. While our powder diffraction data show that the average structure remains cubic up to 2.1 GPa, analysis of the X-ray pair distribution function reveals that the local structure is better described by a monoclinic space group, with significant distortion within the Ag-Br and Bi-Br octahedra and off-centering of the Cs atoms. By tracking the distribution of interatomic Cs-Br distances, we find that the local disorder is enhanced upon compression, and we corroborate these results with molecular dynamics simulations. The observed local disorder affords new understanding of this promising material and potentially offers a new parameter to tune in halide perovskite lattices.

Tailoring Optical Properties of Luminescent Semiconducting Nanocrystals through Hydrostatic, Anisotropic Static, and Dynamic Pressures

Luminescent semiconductor nanocrystals are a fascinating class of materials because of their size-dependent emissions. Numerous past studies have demonstrated that semiconductor nanoparticles with radii smaller than their Bohr radius experience quantum confinement and thus size-dependent emissions. Exerting pressure on these nanoparticles represents an additional, more dynamic, strategy to alter their size and shift their emission. The application of pressure results in the lattices becoming strained and the electronic structure altered. In this Minireview, colloidal semiconductor nanocrystals are first introduced. The effects of uniform hydrostatic pressure on the optical properties of metal halide perovskite (ABX₃ ), II-VI, III-V, and IV-VI semiconductor nanocrystals are then examined. The optical properties of semiconductor nanocrystals under static and dynamic anisotropic pressure are then summarized. Finally, future research directions and applications utilizing the pressure-dependent optical properties of semiconductor nanocrystals are discussed.

Ultra-flexible and waterproof perovskite photovoltaics for washable power source applications

A washable perovskite solar cell with high efficiency (over 11%) and outstanding crumpling durability (maintaining 81.2% after 100 cycles crumpling) is demonstrated herein by combining the flexible self-encapsulation method with a waterproof glue coated substrate.

Insight into the structure–property relationship of two-dimensional lead-free halide perovskite Cs3Bi2Br9 nanocrystals under pressure

Pressure-induced phase transformation and narrowed band gap of two-dimensional lead-free halide perovskite Cs₃Bi₂Br₉ nanocrystals.

Preferred oriented cation configurations in high pressure phases IV and V of methylammonium lead iodide perovskite

A microscopic viewpoint of structure and dipolar configurations in hybrid organic–inorganic perovskites is crucial to understanding their stability and phase transitions. The necessity of incorporating dispersion interactions in the state-of-the-art density functional theory for the \documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \usepackage{amsmath} \usepackage{wasysym} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsbsy} \usepackage{mathrsfs} \usepackage{upgreek} \setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \begin{document}$$CH_3NH_3PbI_3$$\end{document}CH3NH3PbI3 perovskite (MAPI) is demonstrated in this work. Some of the vdW methods were selected to evaluate the corresponding energetics properties of the cubic MAPI with various azimuthally rotated MA organic cation orientations. The highest energy barrier obtained from PBEsol reaches 18.6 meV/MA-ion, which is equivalent to 216 K, the temperature above which the MA cations randomly reorient. Energy profiles calculated by vdW incorporated functionals, on the other hand, exhibit various distinct patterns. The well-developed vdW-DF-cx functional was selected, thanks to its competence, to evaluate the total energies of different MA dipolar configurations in \documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \usepackage{amsmath} \usepackage{wasysym} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsbsy} \usepackage{mathrsfs} \usepackage{upgreek} \setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \begin{document}$$2\times 2\times 2$$\end{document}2×2×2 cubic supercell of MAPI under pressures. The centrosymmetric arrangement of the MA cations that provide zero total dipole moment configuration results in the lowest energy state profiles under pressure, while the non-centrosymmetric scheme displays a unique behaviour. Despite being overall unpolarised, the latter calculated with PBEsol leads to a rigid shift of energy from the profile obtained from the dispersive vdW-DF-cx functional. It is noteworthy that the energy profile responsible for the maximum polarised configuration nevertheless takes the second place in total energy under pressure.

Semiconducting to metallic transition with outstanding optoelectronic properties of CsSnCl3 perovskite under pressure

Inorganic non-toxic metal halide perovskites have taken the dominant place in commercialization of the optoelectronic devices. The first principles simulation has been executed with the help of density functional theory to investigate the structural, optical, electronic and mechanical properties of non-toxic CsSnCl3 metal halide under various hydrostatic pressures up to 40 GPa. The analysis of optical functions displays that the absorption edge of CsSnCl3 perovskite is shifted remarkably toward the low energy region (red shift) with enhanced pressure. The absorptivity, conductivity and the value of dielectric constant also increases with the applied pressure. The investigation of mechanical properties reveals CsSnCl3 perovskite is mechanically stable as well as highly ductile and the ductility is increased with increasing pressure. The investigation of electronic properties shows semiconducting to metallic transition occurs in CsSnCl3 under elevated pressure. The Physics behind all these changes under hydrostatic pressure has been analyzed and explained in details within the available Scientific theory.

Halide perovskite nanocrystal arrays: Multiplexed synthesis and size-dependent emission

Halide perovskites have exceptional optoelectronic properties, but a poor understanding of the relationship between crystal dimensions, composition, and properties limits their use in integrated devices. We report a new multiplexed cantilever-free scanning probe method for synthesizing compositionally diverse and size-controlled halide perovskite nanocrystals spanning square centimeter areas. Single-particle photoluminescence studies reveal multiple independent emission modes due to defect-defined band edges with relative intensities that depend on crystal size at a fixed composition. Smaller particles, but ones with dimensions that exceed the quantum confinement regime, exhibit blue-shifted emission due to reabsorption of higher-energy modes. Six different halide perovskites have been synthesized, including a layered Ruddlesden-Popper phase, and the method has been used to prepare functional solar cells based on single nanocrystals. The ability to pattern arrays of multicolor light-emitting nanocrystals opens avenues toward the development of optoelectronic devices, including optical displays.

Pressure-Suppressed Carrier Trapping Leads to Enhanced Emission in Two-Dimensional Perovskite (HA)2 (GA)Pb2 I7

A remarkable PL enhancement by 12 fold is achieved using pressure to modulate the structure of a recently developed 2D perovskite (HA)₂ (GA)Pb₂ I₇ (HA=n-hexylammonium, GA=guanidinium). This structure features a previously unattainable, extremely large cage. In situ structural, spectroscopic, and theoretical analyses reveal that lattice compression under a mild pressure within 1.6 GPa considerably suppresses the carrier trapping, leading to significantly enhanced emission. Further pressurization induces a non-luminescent amorphous yellow phase, which is retained and exhibits a continuously increasing band gap during decompression. When the pressure is released to 1.5 GPa, emission can be triggered by above-band gap laser irradiation, accompanied by a color change from yellow to orange. The obtained orange phase could be retained at ambient conditions and exhibits two-fold higher PL emission compared with the pristine (HA)₂ (GA)Pb₂ I₇ .

Pressure-Induced Enhancement of Broad-Band White Light Emission in Butylammonium Lead Bromide

Two-dimensional (2D) perovskites with inorganic layers sandwiched between hydrophobic organic cations possess excellent lighting properties and moisture stability. However, broad-band white light (BWL) is limited to a selected class of perovskites. Our understanding of the intrinsic relationship of BWL and structure and the systemic study of their mechanism of photoluminescence (PL) emission caused by self-trapped excitons in 2D perovskites are still lacking. Here, we show a pressure-induced PL enhancement (PIPE) and a remarkable BWL emission covering the whole visible spectrum in BA₂PbBr₄. Synchrotron X-ray diffraction shows cooperative octahedral tilting below 1 GPa and a Jahn-Teller-like octahedral distortion above 5.3(1) GPa driving the PIPE and BWL emission, respectively. The BWL and structural distortion are retained down to 1.8(1) GPa. Our study provides important insights into the intrinsic correlation between optical properties and structural changes and establishes pressure as a new means for tailoring the use of perovskites in lighting devices.

Pressure-Assisted Fabrication of Perovskite Solar Cells

This paper presents the results of a combined experimental and analytical/computational study of the effects of pressure on photoconversion efficiencies of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). First, an analytical model is used to predict the effects of pressure on interfacial contact in the multilayered structures of PSCs. The PSCs are then fabricated before applying a range of pressures to the devices to improve their interfacial surface contacts. The results show that the photoconversion efficiencies of PSCs increase by ~40%, for applied pressures between 0 and ~7 MPa. However, the photoconversion efficiencies decrease with increasing pressure beyond ~7 MPa. The implications of the results are discussed for the fabrication of efficient PSCs.

Temperature-Dependent Optical Band Gap in CsPbBr3, MAPbBr3, and FAPbBr3 Single Crystals

Single crystals represent a benchmark for understanding the bulk properties of halide perovskites. We have indeed studied the dielectric function of lead bromide perovskite single crystals (MAPbBr3, CsPbBr3 and for the first time FAPbBr3) by spectroscopic ellipsometry in the range of 1-5 eV while varying the temperature from 183 to 440 K. An extremely low absorption coefficient in the sub-band gap region was found, indicating the high optical quality of all three crystals. We extracted the band gap values through critical point analysis showing that Tauc-based values are systematically underestimated. The two structural phase transitions, i.e., orthorhombic-tetragonal and tetragonal-cubic, show distinct optical behaviors, with the former having a discontinuous character. The cross-correlation of optical data with DFT calculations evidences the role of octahedral tilting in tailoring the value of the band gap at a given temperature, whereas differences in the thermal expansion affect the slope of the band gap trend as a function of temperature.

Temperature-Dependent Optical Band Gap in CsPbBr3, MAPbBr3, and FAPbBr3 Single Crystals

Single crystals represent a benchmark for understanding the bulk properties of halide perovskites. We have indeed studied the dielectric function of lead bromide perovskite single crystals (MAPbBr₃, CsPbBr₃ and for the first time FAPbBr₃) by spectroscopic ellipsometry in the range of 1-5 eV while varying the temperature from 183 to 440 K. An extremely low absorption coefficient in the sub-band gap region was found, indicating the high optical quality of all three crystals. We extracted the band gap values through critical point analysis showing that Tauc-based values are systematically underestimated. The two structural phase transitions, i.e., orthorhombic-tetragonal and tetragonal-cubic, show distinct optical behaviors, with the former having a discontinuous character. The cross-correlation of optical data with DFT calculations evidences the role of octahedral tilting in tailoring the value of the band gap at a given temperature, whereas differences in the thermal expansion affect the slope of the band gap trend as a function of temperature.

Exploring electronic and optical properties of Ge-based perovskites under strain: Insights from the first-principles calculations

Organic-inorganic hybrid perovskites have attracted extensive attention as promising photovoltiac materials for high-efficiency solar cells. In this study, strain effects on the material properties of Ge-based perovskites are fully investigated by the first-principles calculations. The results indicate that the structural, mechanical, electronic and optical properties of CH₃NH₃GeX₃ (X = Cl, Br, I) are sensitive to external modulations. The band gaps of three Ge-based halide perovskites are well predicted by using the HSE06 functional. By increasing the compressive strain, the band gaps of three compounds decrease. A suitable band gap (1.36 eV) of CH₃NH₃GeI₃ can be obtained under a strain of -3%. Moreover, the calculated elastic constants further imply that this compound is stable under this condition. The relationship between the band gap variation and geometry change under the compressive strain is revealed. These results are useful for understanding the effects of strain on the material properties of semiconductors and guiding the experiments to improve photovoltaic performance of Ge-based perovskites.

Tightly Compacted Perovskite Laminates on Flexible Substrates via Hot-Pressing

Pressure and temperature are powerful tools applied to perovskites to achieve recrystallization. Lamination, based on recrystallization of perovskites, avoids the limitations and improves the compatibility of materials and solvents in perovskite device architectures. In this work, we demonstrate tightly compacted perovskite laminates on flexible substrates via hot-pressing and investigate the effect of hot-pressing conditions on the lamination qualities and optical properties of perovskite laminates. The optimized laminates achieved at a temperature of 90 °C and a pressure of 10 MPa could sustain a horizontal pulling pressure of 636 kPa and a vertical pulling pressure of 71 kPa. Perovskite laminates exhibit increased crystallinity and a crystallization orientation preference to the (100) direction. The optical properties of laminated perovskites are almost identical to those of pristine perovskites, and the photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) survives the negative impact of thermal degradation. This work demonstrates a promising approach to physically laminating perovskite films, which may accelerate the development of roll-to-roll printed perovskite devices and perovskite tandem architectures in the future.

Pressure-Induced Structural Evolution and Bandgap Optimization of Lead-Free Halide Double Perovskite (NH4)2SeBr6

Lead-free halide double perovskites (HDPs) are promising candidates for high-performance solar cells because of their environmentally-friendly property and chemical stability in air. The power conversion efficiency of HDPs-based solar cells needs to be further improved before their commercialization in the market. It requires a thoughtful understanding of the correlation between their specific structure and property. Here, the structural and optical properties of an important HDP-based (NH4)2SeBr6 are investigated under high pressure. A dramatic piezochromism is found with the increase in pressure. Optical absorption spectra reveal the pressure-induced red-shift in bandgap with two distinct anomalies at 6.57 and 11.18 GPa, and the energy tunability reaches 360 meV within 20.02 GPa. Combined with structural characterizations, Raman and infrared spectra, and theoretical calculations using density functional theory, results reveal that, the first anomaly is caused by the formation of a Br-Br bond among the [SeBr6]2- octahedra, and the latter is attributed to a cubic-to-tetragonal phase transition. These results provide a clear correlation between the chemical bonding and optical properties of (NH4)2SeBr6. It is believed that the proposed strategy paves the way to optimize the optoelectronic properties of HDPs and further stimulate the development of next-generation clear energy based on HDPs solar cells.

Bandgap engineering in two-dimensional halide perovskite Cs3Sb2I9 nanocrystals under pressure

Halide perovskites have attracted great attention owing to their outstanding performance in optoelectronic applications and solar cells. Recently, two-dimensional (2D) Cs3Sb2I9 nanocrystals (NCs) have attracted sustained interest due to their potentially useful photovoltaic behavior. However, their practical application is impeded by the large bandgap. In this study, the bandgap of 2D Cs3Sb2I9 NCs is successfully narrowed from 2.05 eV to 1.36 eV by means of a high pressure with a measurable rate of 33.7%. Optical changes of 2D Cs3Sb2I9 NCs originate from Sb-I bond contraction and I-Sb-I bond angle changes within the [SbI6]3- octahedra, which determines the overlap of orbitals. Angle dispersive synchrotron X-ray diffraction spectra and Raman spectra of Cs3Sb2I9 NCs indicate that the structural amorphization gradually begins at about 14.0 GPa and the changes are reversible once pressure is completely released. The band gap is slightly smaller after decompression than that under the initial ambient conditions, resulting from the incomplete recrystallization process. First-principles calculations further elucidate that variations in band gaps are mainly governed by the orbital interactions associated with the distortion of the Sb-I octahedral network upon compression. The research enhances the fundamental understanding of 2D Cs3Sb2I9 NCs and is expected to greatly advance the research progress of perovskites in band gap interception at high pressures. Meanwhile, this study demonstrates that pressure processing can be used as a robust strategy to improve materials-by-design in applications.

Pressure-Induced Remarkable Enhancement of Self-Trapped Exciton Emission in One-Dimensional CsCu2I3 with Tetrahedral Units

Self-trapped exciton (STE) emissions derived from inorganic octahedral units make metal halide perovskites promising photoluminescence materials for light-emitting applications. However, there is still little understanding of the intrinsic STE emissions in metal halide perovskites or derivatives with nonoctahedral units. In this work, via high pressure compression, remarkable STE emission enhancement is, for the first time, realized in one-dimensional CsCu₂I₃ crystals with {CuCl₄} tetrahedral units. The intertetrahedral distortion is believed to induce the slight emission enhancement of the ambient phase under initial compression. Notably, the obvious structural distortions of both inter- and intratetrahedra are responsible for the significant emission enhancement of the high pressure phase. This work not only sheds light on the structure-optical property relationships of tetrahedron-based halide complexes, but also may provide guidance for the design and fabrication of highly luminescent metal halides.

Hydrogen-bond enhancement triggered structural evolution and band gap engineering of hybrid perovskite (C6H5CH2NH3)2PbI4 under high pressure

Hybrid organic–inorganic perovskites (HOIPs) have gained substantial attention due to their excellent photovoltaic and optoelectronic properties.

Band Gap Engineering in MASnBr3 and CsSnBr3 Perovskites: Mechanistic Insights through the Application of Pressure

Here we report on the first structural and optical high-pressure investigation of MASnBr₃ (MA = [CH₃NH₃]⁺) and CsSnBr₃ halide perovskites. A massive red shift of 0.4 eV for MASnBr₃ and 0.2 eV for CsSnBr₃ is observed within 1.3 to 1.5 GPa from absorption spectroscopy, followed by a huge blue shift of 0.3 and 0.5 eV, respectively. Synchrotron powder diffraction allowed us to correlate the upturn in the optical properties trend (onset of blue shift) with structural phase transitions from cubic to orthorhombic in MASnBr₃ and from tetragonal to monoclinic for CsSnBr₃. Density functional theory calculations indicate a different underlying mechanism affecting the band gap evolution with pressure, a key role of metal-halide bond lengths for CsSnBr₃ and cation orientation for MASnBr₃, thus showing the impact of a different A-cation on the pressure response. Finally, the investigated phases, differently from the analogous Pb-based counterparts, are robust against amorphization showing defined diffraction up to the maximum pressure used in the experiments.

Pressure-induced semiconductor-to-metal phase transition of a charge-ordered indium halide perovskite

Phase transitions in halide perovskites triggered by external stimuli generate significantly different material properties, providing a great opportunity for broad applications. Here, we demonstrate an In-based, charge-ordered (In⁺/In³⁺) inorganic halide perovskite with the composition of Cs₂In(I)In(III)Cl₆ in which a pressure-driven semiconductor-to-metal phase transition exists. The single crystals, synthesized via a solid-state reaction method, crystallize in a distorted perovskite structure with space group I4/m with a = 17.2604(12) Å, c = 11.0113(16) Å if both the strong reflections and superstructures are considered. The supercell was further confirmed by rotation electron diffraction measurement. The pressure-induced semiconductor-to-metal phase transition was demonstrated by high-pressure Raman and absorbance spectroscopies and was consistent with theoretical modeling. This type of charge-ordered inorganic halide perovskite with a pressure-induced semiconductor-to-metal phase transition may inspire a range of potential applications.

Direct-Indirect Transition of Pressurized Two-Dimensional Halide Perovskite: Role of Benzene Ring Stack Ordering

Two-dimensional (2D) hybrid organic-inorganic metal halide perovskites (HOIPs) with considerably hydrophobic phenyl ethylammonium (PEA) organic cations have been used in highly efficient solar cells and LEDs, which are stable and enjoy a long lifetime, even when exposed to moisture. Different from other 2D HOIPs with alkyl amine cations, a benzene ring is present in the PEA cation. Until recently, an understanding of the effects of PEA on the structural, electronic, and optical properties of 2D HOIPs under pressure has remained limited. We find that there is a direct-indirect band gap transition at around 5.8 GPa and that the direct band gap recovers when the pressure is released. The stacking order of the benzene rings in the PEA cation plays a critical role in the mechanical and electronic properties. Our present work demonstrates that 2D HOIPs with organic cations containing benzene rings prove highly attractive for use in flexible optoelectronics.

Pressure-induced structural transition and band gap evolution of double perovskite Cs2AgBiBr6 nanocrystals

Lead-free double halide perovskite nanocrystals (NCs) are attracting increasing attention due to their non-toxic nature and exceptional stability as a substitute material for lead-based perovskites. Herein, we investigate the relationship between the structural and optical properties of double halide perovskite Cs2AgBiBr6 NCs under high pressure. In situ synchrotron high-pressure powder X-ray diffraction and Raman experiments indicated that the structure of Cs2AgBiBr6 NCs transformed into a tetragonal from a cubic system at 2.3 GPa. Pressure-dependent absorption demonstrated that the band gap changes in the sequence red-shift → blue-shift. First-principles calculations further indicated that the band gap evolution was highly related to the orbital interactions, associated with the tilting and distortion of [AgBr6]5- and [BiBr6]3- octahedra under pressure. It is worth noting that the quenched absorption peak of Cs2AgBiBr6 NCs was slightly blue-shifted compared with that of the initial one under ambient conditions, which is in stark contrast to that of the corresponding bulk counterparts. This is because the structure of the sample was not yet recovered and maintained a certain degree of distortion after fully releasing the pressure. What's more, the NCs after decompression are a mixture of cubic and tetragonal phases, which leads to a larger quenched band gap than that of the initial value. Our results improve the understanding of the structural and optical properties of nanostructured double halide perovskites, thus providing a basis for their application in optoelectronic devices.

Large Band Gap Narrowing and Prolonged Carrier Lifetime of (C4H9NH3)2PbI4 under High Pressure

Due to their superior optical and electronic properties and good stability, 2D organic-inorganic halide perovskites (OIHPs) exhibit strong potential for optoelectronic applications. However, the large band gap, short carrier lifetime, and high resistance hinder their practical performance. In this work, the band gap is successfully tuned, the carrier lifetime is prolonged, and the resistance of (C4H9NH3)2PbI4 (BA2PbI4) is reduced directly using high pressure. The band gap is decreased to less than 1 eV at 35.0 GPa, and the highest pressure is studied. The carrier lifetime at 9.9 GPa is 20 times longer than that at ambient conditions. Moreover, the resistance is reduced by four orders of magnitude at 34.0 GPa accompanying band gap narrowing. This work indicates that pressure plays an effective role in tuning the optical and electronic structures of BA2PbI4, and also provides a strategy to synthesize high-performance OIHP materials.

Pressure Induced Nanoparticle Phase Behavior, Property, and Applications

Nanoparticle (NP) high pressure behavior has been extensively studied over the years. In this review, we summarize recent progress on the studies of pressure induced NP phase behavior, property, and applications. This review starts with a brief overview of high pressure characterization techniques, coupled with synchrotron X-ray scattering, Raman, fluorescence, and absorption. Then, we survey the pressure induced phase transition of NP atomic crystal structure including size dependent phase transition, amorphization, and threshold pressures using several typical NP material systems as examples. Next, we discuss the pressure induced phase transition of NP mesoscale structures including topics on pressure induced interparticle separation distance, NP coupling, and NP coalescence. Pressure induced new properties and applications in different NP systems are highlighted. Finally, outlooks with future directions are discussed.

Photodriven Dipole Reordering: Key to Carrier Separation in Metalorganic Halide Perovskites

Photodriven dipole reordering of the intercalated organic molecules in halide perovskites has been suggested to be a critical degree of freedom, potentially affecting physical properties, device performance, and stability of hybrid perovskite-based optoelectronic devices. However, thus far a direct atomically resolved dipole mapping under device operation condition, that is, illumination, is lacking. Here, we map simultaneously the molecule dipole orientation pattern and the electrostatic potential with atomic resolution using photoexcited cross-sectional scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy. Our experimental observations demonstrate that a photodriven molecule dipole reordering, initiated by a photoexcited separation of electron-hole pairs in spatially displaced orbitals, leads to a fundamental reshaping of the potential landscape in halide perovskites, creating separate one-dimensional transport channels for holes and electrons. We anticipate that analogous light-induced polarization order transitions occur in bulk and are at the origin of the extraordinary efficiencies of organometal halide perovskite-based solar cells as well as could reconcile apparently contradictory materials' properties.

Tuning Optical and Electronic Properties in Low-Toxicity Organic-Inorganic Hybrid (CH3NH3)3Bi2I9 under High Pressure

Low-toxicity, air-stable methylammonium bismuth iodide (CH₃NH₃)₃Bi₂I₉ has been proposed as a candidate to replace lead-based perovskites as highly efficient light absorbers for photovoltaic devices. Here, we investigated the effect of pressure on the optoelectronic properties and crystal structure of (CH₃NH₃)₃Bi₂I₉ up to 65 GPa at room temperature. We achieved impressive photoluminescence enhancement and band gap narrowing over a moderate pressure range. Dramatic piezochromism from transparent red to opaque black was observed in a single crystal sample. A structural phase transition from hexagonal P6₃/ mmc to monoclinic P2₁ at 5.0 GPa and completely reversible amorphization at 29.1 GPa were determined by in situ synchrotron X-ray diffraction. Moreover, the dynamically disordered MA⁺ organic cations in the hexagonal phase became orientationally ordered upon entering into the monoclinic phase, followed by static disorder upon amorphization. The striking enhancement of conductivity and metallization under high pressure indicate wholly new electronic properties.

Pressure-Induced Emission (PIE) of One-Dimensional Organic Tin Bromide Perovskites

Low-dimensional halide perovskites easily suffer from the structural distortion related to significant quantum confinement effects. Organic tin bromide perovskite C₄N₂H₁₄SnBr₄ is a unique one-dimensional (1D) structure in which the edge sharing octahedral tin bromide chains [SnBr₄^2-]_∞ are embraced by the organic cations C₄N₂H₁₄²⁺ to form the bulk assembly of core-shell quantum wires. Some unusual phenomena under high pressure are accordingly expected. Here, an intriguing pressure-induced emission (PIE) in C₄N₂H₁₄SnBr₄ was successfully achieved by means of a diamond anvil cell. The observed PIE is greatly associated with the large distortion of [SnBr₆]^4- octahedral motifs resulting from a structural phase transition, which can be corroborated by in situ high-pressure photoluminescence, absorption, and angle-dispersive X-ray diffraction spectra. The distorted [SnBr₆]^4- octahedra would accordingly facilitate the radiative recombination of self-trapped excitons (STEs) by lifting the activation energy of detrapping of self-trapped states. First-principles calculations indicate that the enhanced transition dipole moment and the increased binding energy of STEs are highly responsible for the remarkable PIE. This work will improve the potential applications in the fields of pressure sensors, trademark security, and information storage.

In Situ Raman Spectroscopic Studies of Thermal Stability of All-Inorganic Cesium Lead Halide (CsPbX3, X = Cl, Br, I) Perovskite Nanocrystals

Thermal degradation becomes the main obstacle for industrial applications of all-inorganic cesium lead halide (CsPbX₃, X = Cl, Br, I) perovskite optoelectronic devices. A complete understanding of thermal degradation of CsPbX₃ perovskites is required but greatly challenging for achieving optoelectronic devices with long-term stability, particularly under extreme settings. Herein, we present an in situ spectroscopic study of thermal stability of CsPbX₃ nanocrystals between the cryogenic temperature and high temperature. The low-frequency Raman signatures of CsPbX₃ nanocrystals dramatically evolve but differentiate from the halogen atoms at elevated temperatures, acting as potent indicators of their crystalline structures and phase transitions. The merging of doublet Raman bands of CsPbX₃ nanocrystals indicates their high-temperature phase transitions. CsPbX₃ (X = Br, I) nanocrystals undergo a state of high degree of disorder with featureless Raman spectra before being thermally decomposed. Such understanding is of particular importance for future design and optimization of high-performance CsPbX₃ perovskite devices with long-term stability under extreme settings.

Pressure induced transformation and subsequent amorphization of monoclinic Nb2O5 and its effect on optical properties

Pressure-induced phase transitions of monoclinic H-Nb₂O₅ have been studied by in situ synchrotron x-ray diffraction, pair distribution function (PDF) analysis, and Raman and optical transmission spectroscopy. The initial monoclinic phase is found to transform into an orthorhombic phase at ~9 GPa and then change to an amorphous form above 21.4 GPa. The PDF data reveal that the amorphization is associated with disruptions of the long-range order of the NbO₆ octahedra and the NbO₇ pentagonal bipyramids, whereas the local edge-shares of octahedra and the local linkages of pentagonal bipyramids are largely preserved in their nearest neighbors. Upon compression, the transmittance of the sample in a region from visible to near infrared (450-1000 nm) starts to increase above 8.0 GPa and displays a dramatic enhancement above 22.2 GPa, indicating that the amorphous form has a high transmittance. The pressure-induced amorphous form is found to be recoverable under pressure release, and maintain high optical transmittance property at ambient conditions. The recoverable pressure induced amorphous material promises for applications in multifunctional materials.

Pressure-Induced Broadband Emission of 2D Organic-Inorganic Hybrid Perovskite (C6H5C2H4NH3)2PbBr4

2D Ruddlesden-Popper halide perovskites, which incorporate hydrophobic organic interlayers to considerably improve environmental stability and optical properties diversity, have attracted substantial research attention for optoelectronic applications. The burgeoning broad emission arising from exciton self-trapping of 2D perovskites shows a strong dependence on a deformable structure. Here, the pressure-induced broadband emission of layered (001) Pb-Br perovskite with a large Stokes shift in the visible region is observed by finely improving lattice distortion to increase exciton-phonon coupling under hydrostatic pressure. Band gap narrows ≈0.5 eV under modest pressure, mainly due to the large compressibility of the orientational organic layer, confirming that the bulky organic cations notably influence the structure and, in turn, the various properties of materials. Sequential amorphization of the organic and inorganic layer is confirmed by high pressure Raman and X-ray diffraction measurements, suggesting the particularity of layered crystal structures. The mechanism constructed here offers a new route for tuning the optical properties of 2D perovskites.

High Pressure Structural and Optical Properties of Two-Dimensional Hybrid Halide Perovskite (CH3NH3)3Bi2Br9

Two-dimensional (2D) hybrid halide perovskite is emerging as the next generation of photoelectronic materials. Herein, a typical 2D halide perovskite of MA₃Bi₂Br₉ (MA = CH₃NH₃) is chosen for high pressure research to explore the distinct structural and property characteristics of the inorganic and organic compositions therein. Upon compression above 4.3 GPa, the distortion and tilting of inorganic BiBr₆ octahedra dominate the phase transition of MA₃Bi₂Br₉ from trigonal to monoclinic. Meanwhile, exceptionally anisotropic compressibilities are observed between intra- and interlayer structures, which originate from the unique geometry of puckered layer. In addition, the presence of organic MA⁺ cations contributes to the flexible structural nature of MA₃Bi₂Br₉. Meanwhile, the geometrical changes of inorganic components determine the relationships between structure and band gap under pressure. This work not only demonstrates the intriguing structure nature of MA₃Bi₂Br₉ but also reveals the individual contributions on the structure-property diagram from inorganic (BiBr₆ octahedra) and organic (MA cations) components.

Pressure-induced effects in the inorganic halide perovskite CsGeI3

Perovskite photovoltaic materials are gaining significant attention due to their excellent photovoltaic properties. In this study, density functional theory calculations were performed to investigate the structure and electronic and optical properties of CsGeI₃ under hydrostatic strain. The results show that the band gap of CsGeI₃ can be tuned from 0.73 eV to 2.30 eV under different strain conditions. The results indicate that the change in the band gap under strain is likely to be determined by the Ge–I–Ge bond angle. Interestingly, the length of the short Ge–I bond remains unchanged, whereas that of the long Ge–I bond exhibits an evident increment with strain ranging from −4% to 4%. A suitable band gap (1.36 eV) of CsGeI₃ can be obtained under a strain of −1%. Both the calculated elastic constants and the phonon spectrum imply that this structure is stable under the abovementioned condition. Bandgap narrowing induces a red shift of the light absorption spectrum of CsGeI₃ by extending the onset light absorption edge. These results are important for understanding the effects of strain on the halide perovskites and guiding the experiments to improve the photovoltaic performance of the perovskite solar cells.

Perovskite photovoltaic materials are gaining significant attention due to their excellent photovoltaic properties.

Revealing Photoluminescence Modulation from Layered Halide Perovskite Microcrystals upon Cyclic Compression

Halide perovskites show promise for high-efficiency solar energy conversion and light-emitting diode devices owing to their bandgap, which falls within the visible optical range. However, due to their rigidity, GPa pressures are necessary to control the complex interplay between their electronic and crystallographic structure. Layered perovskites are likely to be controlled using much lower pressures by exploiting the optical anisotropy of the embedded organic molecules in the structure. This work introduces layered perovskite microplatelets and demonstrates the extreme sensitivity of their emission to cyclic mechanical loading in the range of tens of MPa. A drastic change in their emission is observed in situ, from near-white to an enhanced blue color. This process is reversible, as is evident from a hysteresis loop in the photoluminescence (PL) intensity of the microplatelets. A combination of experimental analysis and computational modelling shows that such behavior cannot be attributed to changes in the crystallographic structure of the flakes. Instead, it suggests that, thanks to their structural anisotropy, microplate alignment and reorientation are responsible for the observed PL modulation. The possibility to tune the optical emission of layered perovskite crystals via low pressures makes them highly interesting as active materials in applications where stress sensing or light modulation is desired.