Ultrasensitive and stable X-ray detection using zero-dimensional lead-free perovskites

Sensitive and reliable X-ray detectors are essential for medical radiography,industrial inspection and security screening.Lowering the radiation dose allows reduced health risks and increased frequency and fidelity of diagnostic technologies for earlier detection of disease and its recurrence.Three-dimensional(3 D)organic-inorganic hybrid lead halide perovskites are promising for direct X-ray detection-they show improved sensitivity compared to conventional X-ray detectors.However,their high and unstable dark current,caused by ion migration and high dark carrier concentration in the 3 D hybrid perovskites,limits their performance and long-term operation stability.Here we report ultrasensitive,stable X-ray detectors made using zero-dimensional(0 D)methylammonium bismuth iodide perovskite(MA3Bi2I9)single crystals.The 0 D crystal structure leads to a high activation energy(Ea)for ion migration(0.46 e V)and is also accompanied by a low dark carrier concentration(~10^6 cm^-3).The X-ray detectors exhibit sensitivity of 10,620μC Gy-1 air cm-2,a limit of detection(Lo D)of 0.62 nG yairs-1,and stable operation even under high applied biases;no deterioration in detection performance was observed following sensing of an integrated X-ray irradiation dose of^23,800 m Gyair,equivalent to>200,000 times the dose required for a single commercial X-ray chest radiograph.Regulating the ion migration channels and decreasing the dark carrier concentration in perovskites provide routes for stable and ultrasensitive X-ray detectors.

Characterization of interfaces: Lessons from the past for the future of perovskite solar cells

A photovoltaic technology historically goes through two major steps to evolve into a mature technology. The first step involves advances in materials and is usually accompanied by the rapid improvement of power conversion efficiency. The second step focuses on interfaces and is usually accompanied by significant stability improvement. As an emerging generation of photovoltaic technology, perovskite solar cells are transitioning to the second step of their development when a significant focus shifts toward interface studies and engineering. While various interface engineering strategies have been developed, interfacial characterization is crucial to show the effectiveness of interfacial modification. Here, we review the characterization techniques that have been utilized in studying interface properties in perovskite solar cells. We first summarize the main roles of interfaces in perovskite solar cells, and then we discuss some typical characterization methodologies for morphological, optical,and electrical studies of interfaces. Successful experiences and existing problems are analyzed when discussing some commonly used methods. We then analyze the challenges and provide an outlook for further development of interfacial characterizations. This review aims to evoke strengthened research devotion on novel and persuasive interfacial engineering.

A Neuronal Activity-Boosting Microglial Function in Post-Anesthetic Emergence:How Microglial-Neuronal Crosstalk May Alter States of Consciousness

Glial cells have often been referred to as the support cells of the brain.While they do have numerous supportive functions,there is emerging research showing they play an active role in shaping the brain and behaviour.Studying the cellular and molecular crosstalk between brain cell types is immensely valuable as this research topic continues to demonstrate that many brain functions are a result of a system of cells working together,rather than any cell type independently.

从四方到立方:高性能太阳能电池的钙钛矿相结构演变

Crystal structure, which is generally determined by the composition, ionic radius and valence state of constituent elements, plays a significant role in the material’s fundamental properties such as optical, electronic, and mechanical characters. The manipulation of the crystal structure through compositional engineering, and understanding the relationship between crystal structure and properties are essential for the development of materials.