Functional Nano-Hybrids for Optoelectronics: from 0/1/2D Nanostructures to Cross-Linked Heteronanojunctions

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Bernd Smarsly, since 10/2022
• Subject Area: Synthesis and Properties of Functional Materials
• Term: since 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 460609161

This proposal will develop innovative nano-hybrid platforms based on semiconducting inorganic nanocrystals and nanocarbons for use in solution-processed light harvesting and emitting devices to improve their stability and tackle emerging challenges in the field. In the recent years, a plethora of materials systems have been designed to improve the performance of optoelectronic technologies and to develop new and attractive applications. Limitations of state-of-the-art devices based on organic materials (semiconducting polymers) and on emerging hybrid materials (metal halide perovskites) derive largely from material stability issues after prolonged operation. This project will tackle this challenge by leveraging the enhanced stability of certain, carefully selected, nanocrystals and nanocarbons, in novel light harvesting/emitting nano-hybrids constituting well-defined heteronanojunctions assembled through chemical cross-linking strategies (grafting-to and grafting -from). The exploration of these new materials combinations will set the basis for the development of efficient synthetic strategies towards complex nanoarchitectures, as well as pave the way to more durable photoactive layers. The project will target the design and preparation of light harvesting species and visible and near-infrared (NIR) light emitting species, the latter case being an emerging area that attracts wide and increasing interest, e.g. for application to the biomedical sector, which will be formulated into functional inks suitable for high-throughput solution processing methods. Their impact will be demonstrated by determining the photophysical processes taking place at the heteronanojunction (energy/charge transfer) and their efficiency, to then translate this knowledge into the judicious fabrication of proof-of-concept optoelectronic devices (photodetectors and LED architectures). To this aim, the project will build on the expertise of the Principal Investigator in the construction, characterization and application in devices of nanocarbon-based hybrids/composites , while will benefit from the active collaboration of external leading groups, as detailed in the full proposal.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• International Connection: Italy, United Kingdom
• Cooperation Partners: Professor Dr. Franco Cacialli; Dr. Ilka Kriegel
• Ehemalige Antragstellerin: Professorin Teresa Gatti, Ph.D., until 10/2022