Structure-property control in block copolymer-directed perovskite quantum dot films for next-generation light-emitting devices

• Grant number: 25/09091-6
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral
• Start date: October 01, 2025
• End date: September 30, 2027
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Chemistry - Inorganic Chemistry
• Principal Investigator: Ana Flávia Nogueira
• Grantee: Daniela de Morais Zanata
• Host Institution: Instituto de Química (IQ). Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP). Campinas , SP, Brazil
• Company: Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP). Instituto de Química (IQ)
• Associated research grant: 17/11986-5 - Generation and storage of New Energy: bringing technological development for the country, AP.PCPE

Abstract

The advancement of perovskite quantum dot (PQD)-based optoelectronic devices has been significantly hindered by challenges related to environmental instability, uncontrolled crystallization, and limited morphological control in thin films. Addressing these limitations is critical for enabling high-performance, durable light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and expanding the commercial viability of perovskite materials. This project proposes an innovative, bottom-up strategy that leverages the self-assembly behavior of amphiphilic block copolymers (BCPs) to direct the controlled crystallization, spatial organization, and stabilization of PQDs within nanostructured hybrid films. By designing a library of ionophilic-hydrophobic BCPs, where the ionophilic block selectively coordinates with perovskite precursors, the project aims to achieve precise control over PQD nucleation, growth, and confinement at the nanoscale.A comprehensive screening of BCP architecture will be conducted to identify optimal chemical functionalities and block compositions that promote uniform PQD dispersion, enhanced photoluminescence, and resistance to moisture, oxygen, and thermal degradation. The influence of nanoscale morphology on optoelectronic performance will be systematically explored by varying the volume fraction of the ionophilic block to access distinct self-assembled structures, such as spherical micelles, cylindrical domains, and lamellar phases. Advanced characterization techniques, including SAXS, TEM, AFM, PL, trPL, XPS, and nano-FTIR, will be employed to correlate polymer structure, domain organization, and PQD distribution with photophysical behavior and device stability.The optimized BCP/PQD hybrid films will be integrated into LED prototypes to evaluate key performance metrics such as luminance, color purity, external quantum efficiency (EQE), and operational durability. This research is expected to establish robust structure-property-performance relationships, guiding the rational design of hybrid nanomaterials for next-generation optoelectronic devices.In addition to its scientific contributions, this project supports global sustainability efforts by promoting energy-efficient, long-lasting LED technologies. By enabling scalable and eco-friendly fabrication of stable PQD-based devices, the outcomes will contribute to reducing energy consumption, minimizing environmental impact, and advancing innovative materials solutions within the optoelectronics industry. (AU)