Research Projects

Rationale: Perovskite nanostructures, such as quantum dots, nanowires, and superstructures, have emerged as transformative materials for optoelectronic applications, including solar cells, LEDs, and photodetectors, due to their tunable bandgaps, high charge-carrier mobility, and defect tolerance. However, the lack of real-time insight into their nucleation, growth, and self-assembly processes limits the ability to synthesize uniform structures with optimized properties. Current synthesis methods rely on trial-and-error, resulting in size heterogeneity and inconsistent performance, hindering scalable production for India’s renewable energy and technology sectors. This project addresses this gap by developing a novel spectro-microscope to monitor photoluminescence (PL) during perovskite growth, providing kinetic insights to enable precise control over material properties. In the Indian context, where affordable energy and sustainable technologies are critical for economic growth and environmental goals, this research aligns with national priorities like the National Solar Mission and Atmanirbhar Bharat, aiming to foster indigenous, cost-effective solutions. Scientific Objectives: 1. In-Situ Spectroscopic Monitoring of Freely Diffusing Nanostructures and Superstructures in Solution: Develop a system to track PL evolution during perovskite synthesis, elucidating nucleation and growth kinetics. 2. In-Situ Spectroscopic Analysis of Targeted Nanostructure Growth on Substrates with Predefined Nucleation Sites: Monitor growth on laser-ablated nucleation sites to achieve controlled, uniform nanostructures. 3. In-Situ Observation of Superstructure Formation and Optoelectronic Property Evolution: Investigate self-assembly into ordered superlattices, focusing on collective optical behaviors like superfluorescence. These objectives aim to create a comprehensive understanding of perovskite growth dynamics, enabling tailored synthesis for enhanced optoelectronic performance. Hypothesis/Model to be Tested: The central hypothesis is that real-time PL monitoring during perovskite nanostructure and superstructure formation can reveal kinetic mechanisms governing nucleation, growth, and self-assembly, allowing precise control over size, uniformity, and optoelectronic properties. The project tests the LaMer model of nucleation and growth, hypothesizing that specific reaction conditions (e.g., temperature, ligand concentration, flow rate) dictate dimensional transitions (0D to 3D) and superstructure ordering. It also posits that superstructures exhibit enhanced properties, such as superfluorescence, due to collective interactions, which can be optimized through controlled assembly. These models will be validated by correlating PL spectra and lifetimes with nanostructure characteristics. Significance to the Field: If successful, this project will fundamentally advance the understanding of perovskite growth kinetics by providing real-time insights into nucleation, growth, and self-assembly, validated through the LaMer model and superfluorescence phenomena. This will enable precise synthesis of uniform nanostructures and superstructures, overcoming current limitations in reproducibility and scalability. In terms of applications, the project will facilitate the development of nanostructures and superstructures with optimum heterogeneity and optoelectronics properties. The spectro-microscope will become a cornerstone tool for materials science, enabling researchers to tailor nanomaterials for specific applications. In the Indian context, these outcomes align with sustainable development priorities, offering low-cost, eco-friendly (lead-free) solutions to enhance energy access in rural areas and improve healthcare through affordable diagnostics. The project’s dissemination will foster a global and local innovation ecosystem, driving economic growth through job creation and positioning India as a leader in nanotechnology.