Surface-Controlled Chalcogenide Perovskite Nanocrystals for Next-Gen Energy Technologies: A Materials-by-Design Approach Guided by Environmental TEM

Objective

SCoPe-TEM introduces a materials-by-design strategy for stabilizing chalcogenide perovskite (CP) nanocrystals (NCs), addressing the critical challenge of oxygen-induced degradation that currently limits their integration in optoelectronic devices. The project proposes a novel design of atomically thin, oxidation-resistance shells that preserve charge transport properties in CP-NCs. Unlike conventional ex-situ or static approaches, SCoPe-TEM employs environmental transmission electron microscopy (ETEM) to dynamically probe oxidation pathways at the atomic scale under near-ambient conditions, enabling real-time observation of structural, chemical, and phase transformations. These insights will guide the development of core-shell architectures that simultaneously suppress degradation and enhance electronic performance. Furthermore, machine learning-assisted ETEM analysis will correlate nanoscale dynamics with oxidation kinetics, enabling predictive modeling of long-term stability. By moving beyond characterization toward active design, SCoPe-TEM establishes a framework for oxidation-resistant CP-NCs, accelerating their employment in sustainable photovoltaics and optoelectronics, and contributing to the EU’s mission of developing resilient, innovative materials for the energy transition essential for reducing reliance on fossil fuels and accelerating the adoption of renewable energy technologies