Optical, electrochemical and photocatalytic properties of cobalt doped CsPbCl3 nanostructures: a one-pot synthesis approach

Enhanced Photodetection Performance of WSe2/V2O5 Nanocomposite on Flexible Substrate: Synergistic Advantages and Improved Efficiency

The two-dimensional (2D) chalcogenide WSe2/V2O5 composite nanostructures were synthesized using the hydrothermal method and extensively characterized with various spectroscopic techniques. X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed the hexagonal crystal structure exhibiting space symmetry of P63/mmc. Scanning electron microscopy images provided insights into the irregular and nonuniform morphology. Optical spectrum analysis indicated a band gap value of 2.01 eV for 15% WSe2/V2O5 nanostructures, as determined by the Wood and Tauc equation. Photoluminescence (PL) excitation spectra at emission wavelengths of 550 and 750 nm exhibited broad emission attributed to self-trapped excitons for V2O5 and WSe2 nanostructures. Under excitation at λexc = 365 nm, PL emission spectra displayed distinct peaks at 550 and 750 nm, demonstrating the ability to emit vivid red light. A device optimized for photoresponsivity (R) of approximately 7.80 × 10-1 A W-1 and detectivity (D) of around 8.65 × 1011 Jones, and quantum efficiency of approximately 3.42 × 10-2 A W-1 were achieved at a wavelength of 390 nm while using a lamination sheet as a substrate. These findings underscore the capability of devices for efficient photoconversion at specified wavelengths, indicating potential applications in sensing, imaging, and optical communication. The photoresponsivity of the device remained stable at 3.38 × 10-3 A W-1 at 0° and 3.09 × 10-3 A W-1 at 55° bending angle. This indicates the resilience of device to mechanical strain, making it ideal for flexible and wearable sensor applications. The structural, morphological, and optical characterizations confirm the suitability of luminescent WSe2/V2O5 chalcogenide for practical optoelectronic applications, especially in display technologies.

Metal Halide Perovskites for Photocatalysis: Performance and Mechanistic Studies

Metal halide perovskites, both lead-based and lead-free variants, have emerged as highly versatile materials with widespread applications across various fields, including photovoltaics, optoelectronics, and photocatalysis. This review provides a succinct overview of the recent advancements in the utilization of lead and lead-free halide perovskites specifically in photocatalysis. We explore the diverse range of photocatalytic reactions enabled by metal halide perovskites, including organic transformations, carbon dioxide reduction, pollutant degradation, and hydrogen production. We highlight key developments, mechanistic insights, and challenges in the field, offering our perspectives on the future research directions and potential applications. By summarizing recent findings from the literature, this review aims to provide a timely resource for researchers interested in harnessing the full potential of metal halide perovskites for sustainable and efficient photocatalytic processes.

Investigation on structure and photoluminescence properties of Ho3+ doped Ca3(VO4)2 phosphors for luminescent devices

This study focuses on the synthesis and characterization of Ho3+ doped Ca3(VO4)2 phosphor for potential application in solid-state lighting technology. A citrate-based sol-gel process is optimized to achieve sheet-like morphologies in the phosphor material. The investigation reveals UV absorption at 371 nm, indicating a band gap of 3.28 eV. Emission transitions at (506, 541, and 651) nm are observed when excited at 451 nm, with an optimal Ho3+ concentration of 0.05 mol resulting in robust green emission at 541 nm. The concentration quenching in Ca3(VO4)2:xHo3+ phosphors is discussed in detail with Blesse's and Dexter's models. The concentration quenching effect found in the studied samples is due to the dipole-dipole interactions. Judd-Ofelt intensity parameters were calculated from the excitation bands, and for Ω 2, Ω 4, and Ω 6 are (0.16, 0.17, and 0.36) × 10-20 cm2, respectively. The emission properties for the (5S2 + 5F4) → 5I8 and 5F5 → 5I8 transitions are also estimated with J-O parameters. The higher magnitude of branching ratios (83%) and emission cross-sections (1.6 × 10-21 cm2) suggest that the Ca3(VO4)2:0.05Ho3+ phosphor materials may be suitable for efficient green-emitting device applications. The CIE coordinates confirm the potential of Ho3+-doped phosphors for green emissions, making them suitable for solid-state lighting and display technology.

Hydrothermal Synthesis and Characterization of WSe2 Nanosheets: A Promising Approach for Wearable Photodetector Applications

The two-dimensional (2D) WSe2 nanostructure was successfully synthesized via the hydrothermal method and subjected to comprehensive characterization using various spectroscopic techniques. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed the formation of nanosheets with a hexagonal crystal structure having a space symmetry of P63/mmc. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images showed irregular and nonuniform morphology. The size of the 2D nanosheets was determined using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) providing insights intotheir physical characteristics. The optical spectrum analysis yielded a discernible band gap value of 2.1 eV, as determined by the Tauc equation. Photoluminescence (PL) spectra display an emission at a wavelength of 610 nm, showing a broad emission associated with self-trapped excitons. Under excitation at λexc = 360 nm, PL emission spectra displayed a distinct peak at 610 nm, demonstrating the ability of the nanostructure to emit vivid red light. Photometric analysis underscored the potential of this nanostructure as a prominent red-light source for diverse display applications. The optimized photodetection performance of a device showcases a photoresponsivity of approximately 1.25 × 10-3 AW-1 and a detectivity of around 5.19 × 108 Jones at a wavelength of 390 nm. Additionally, the quantum efficiency is reported to be approximately 6.99 × 10-3 at a wavelength of 635 nm. These findings highlight the capability of the device for efficient photoconversion at specified wavelengths, indicating potential applications in sensing, imaging, and optical communication. The combination of structural, morphological, and optical characterizations highlights the suitability of 2D WSe2 nanostructure for practical optoelectronic applications, particularly in display technologies.

Physico-chemical and antifungal studies of spun cotton thread reinforced cellulose film

This study examines cellulose films reinforced with spun cotton thread and their antifungal properties. The morphology and structure of the cellulose film are analyzed using various techniques, including X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) Spectroscopy, Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FE-SEM), Atomic Force Microscope (AFM), UV-Visible Spectroscopy (UV-Vis), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). The XRD pattern confirms the crystalline nature of the spun cotton-reinforced cellulose film. UV absorption analysis shows activity in the UV region of the optical spectrum. The reinforced cellulose film shows a band gap of 4.7 eV by employing the Wood and Tauc equation. FTIR spectroscopy confirms the film's structural formation. Morphological analysis reveals a random distribution of numerous pore structures on the material's surface. Thermalgravimetric Analysis indicates the material's stability at elevated temperatures, suggesting versatile applications. The film also exhibits antifungal activity against Candida albicans. This research highlights the potential of reinforced cellulose film in various applications, such as food and non-food packaging, offering enhanced UV protection and strength for heavy goods transport. The study emphasizes the multifunctional properties of the material, showcasing its promising role as a polymer in various practical applications.

Hydrothermally grown Cu doped NiMnO3 perovskite nanostructures suitable for optoelectronic, photoluminescent and electrochemical properties

Transition metal-based perovskites have emerged as highly promising and economically advantageous semiconductor materials due to their exceptional performance in optoelectronics, photovoltaic, photocatalysis, and photoluminescence. In this study, we employed a microwave-assisted hydrothermal process to produce a Cu-doped NiMnO3 nanocomposite electrode material. The appearance of a peak corresponding to the (110) plane with a 2θ value of 36.6° confirmed the growth of the rhombohedral NiMnO3 crystal structure. The presence of metal-oxygen bonds in NiMnO3 was confirmed through FTIR spectra. XPS validates the chemical composition, providing additional support for the results obtained from XRD and FT-IR analyses. FE-SEM affirmed the anisotropic growth of small sphere-like structures that agglomerated to form broccoli-like shapes. Cu doping modified the band gap, reducing it from 2.2 to 1.7 eV and enhancing its photoluminescent (PL) activity by introducing defects. The increase in PL intensity (visible light luminescent intensity) can be attributed to a concurrent rise in complex defects and the rate of recombination of electron-hole pairs. Finally, the electrochemical activity demonstrated the pseudo-capacitor behavior of the synthesized material, with capacitance values increasing as the copper (Cu) content in the parent lattice increased.

All-inorganic lead halide perovskites for photocatalysis: a review

Nowadays, environmental pollution and the energy crisis are two significant concerns in the world, and photocatalysis is seen as a key solution to these issues. All-inorganic lead halide perovskites have been extensively utilized in photocatalysis and have become one of the most promising materials in recent years. The superior performance of all-inorganic lead halide perovskites distinguish them from other photocatalysts. Since pure lead halide perovskites typically have shortcomings, such as low stability, poor active sites, and ineffective carrier extraction, that restrict their use in photocatalytic reactions, it is crucial to enhance their photocatalytic activity and stability. Huge progress has been made to deal with these critical issues to enhance the effects of all-inorganic lead halide perovskites as efficient photocatalysts in a wide range of applications. In this manuscript, the synthesis methods of all-inorganic lead halide perovskites are discussed, and promising strategies are proposed for superior photocatalytic performance. Moreover, the research progress of photocatalysis applications are summarized; finally, the issues of all-inorganic lead halide perovskite photocatalytic materials at the current state and future research directions are also analyzed and discussed. We hope that this manuscript will provide novel insights to researchers to further promote the research on photocatalysis based on all-inorganic lead halide perovskites.

Computational Modulation in Electronic Structures of Halide Perovskites via Element/Dopant/Phase

This study employs computational chemistry to investigate the electronic properties of halide perovskite materials, focusing on structural frameworks, elemental composition, surface engineering, and defect engineering. The tetragonal phase generally exhibits higher band gaps than the cubic phase due to conduction band differences, with LiPbCl3 showing the greatest band gap difference. The ionic radius of the A element influences band gaps for both phases, with Cs having the highest impact. Surface engineering significantly affects the electronic properties, and surface direction and composition play vital roles in determining band gaps. Defect engineering induces semiconducting-to-metallic transitions, impacting band gaps. Understanding these core variables is crucial for tailoring the electronic properties of halide perovskites for photovoltaic and optoelectronic applications.

Mono- and Co-Doped Mn-Doped CsPbCl3 Perovskites with Enhanced Doping Efficiency and Photoluminescent Performance

To investigate the effect of Mn and other metal dopants on the photoelectronic performance of CsPbCl3 perovskites, we conducted a series of theoretical analyses. Our findings showed that after Mn mono-doping, the CsPbCl3 lattice contracted and the bonding strength increased, resulting in a more compact structure of the metal octahedral cage. The relaxation of the metal octahedral cage, along with the Jahn-Teller effect, results in a decrease in lattice strain between the octahedra and a reduction in the energy of the entire lattice due to the deformation of the metal octahedron. These three factors work together to reduce intrinsic defects and enhance the stability and electronic properties of CsPbCl3 perovskites. The solubility of the Mn dopant is significantly increased when co-doped with Ni, Fe, and Co dopants, as it compensates for the lattice strain induced by Mn. Doping CsPbCl3 perovskites reduces the band gap due to the decreased contributions of 3d orbitals from the dopants. Our analyses have revealed that strengthening the CsPbCl3 lattice and reducing intrinsic defects can result in improved stability and PL properties. Moreover, increasing Mn solubility and decreasing the bandgap can enhance the PLQY of orange luminescence in CsPbCl3 perovskites. These findings offer valuable insights for the development of effective strategies to enhance the photoelectronic properties of these materials.

Low-Dimensional CsPbBr3@CoBr2 Super-Nanowire Structure for Perovskite/PMMA Composite with Highly Blue Emissive Performance

In this study, low-dimensional CsPbBr3@CoBr2 super-nanowire (SNW) structures were synthesized via a one-pot heating strategy for highly blue emissions. By introducing CoBr2 to CsPbBr3 precursors, the shape of perovskite nanocrystals was changed from cuboids to a super-nanowire structure, as revealed through a transmission electron microscope. SNWs were formed from stacked segments of nano-plates (lateral dimension of 10–12 nm and thickness of ~2.5 nm) with lengths of several microns. The fabricated sample absorbs light at a wavelength of <450 nm, and it is emitted at a wavelength of 475 nm. It also has a radiant flux conversion efficiency of up to 85% when stimulated by a 430 nm LED light source. The average decay time of up to 80 µs indicates that they effectively prevent the recombination of electron–hole pair. The optical performance still remains over 65% when the ambient temperature is up to 120 °C compared with that under room temperature. The excellent color purity, optical quantum efficiency, long carrier lifetime, and thermal stability make CsPbBr3@CoBr2 SNWs highly promising for a range of photolumicescence applications, such as a high color rendering index lighting and transparent blue emissive screen.