Highly sensitive X-ray detectors with polymer-perovskite-embedded flexible teflon membranes

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Condensed Matter Physics
• Medical Imaging Technology

Background:

• Metal halide perovskites (MHPs) offer superior optoelectronic and X-ray attenuation properties for radiation detection.
• Current high-performance detectors are rigid, limiting applications; flexible MHP detectors lag behind.
• Bridging the performance gap in flexible MHP radiation detectors is crucial for advanced applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop high-performance, flexible X-ray detectors using metal halide perovskites.
• To investigate the interaction mechanism between polymer and perovskite for enhanced stability and performance.
• To demonstrate the potential of these flexible detectors in medical imaging and wearable devices.

Main Methods:

• Embedding a polymer-perovskite composite within a flexible Teflon membrane.
• Utilizing comprehensive spectroscopic analysis to elucidate interaction mechanisms.
• Fabricating and testing flexible X-ray detector devices for sensitivity, stability, and durability.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated a dual-action interaction mechanism: PMA passivates Pb2+ lattice and orders FA+ cations, enhancing stability and crystallinity.
• Achieved record sensitivity (2.3 × 10^5 µC Gyair^-1 cm^-2) and ultra-low detection limit (0.09 nGyair s^-1).
• Exhibited excellent device reproducibility, long-term ambient stability, and mechanical durability under bending.

Conclusions:

• Developed a robust strategy for high-performance flexible perovskite X-ray detectors.
• The polymer-perovskite composite in a Teflon membrane overcomes limitations of rigid detectors.
• Enables next-generation wearable and medical imaging applications requiring flexible, reliable radiation detection.