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Observing Phase Transition Dynamics in Halide Perovskite Nanowires via in Situ 4D-STEM
Yuxin Jiang1,2, Hannah DeVyldere3, Yin-Cheng Lin2,3
1Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, California94720, United States.
The Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters
|August 13, 2026
Summary
Researchers visualized halide perovskite phase transitions using in situ heating and 4D-STEM. This reveals nanoscale pathways, crucial for understanding and stabilizing these optoelectronic materials.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Solid-State Physics
Background:
- Phase transitions in halide perovskites are key to their optoelectronic properties and stability.
- Understanding nanoscale transformation pathways is challenging due to material softness and electron beam sensitivity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the dynamics of phase transitions in single CsPbBrxI3-x nanowires.
- To visualize nanoscale pathways of structural transformations from non-perovskite to perovskite phases.
Main Methods:
- In situ heating combined with four-dimensional scanning transmission electron microscopy (4D-STEM).
- Achieved nanometer spatial and millisecond temporal resolution.
- Utilized molecular dynamics simulations to complement experimental observations.
Main Results:
- Direct visualization and real-time tracking of perovskite phase front propagation.
- Mapping of local crystallographic order and diffuse scattering during transitions.
- Observation of amorphous diffraction rings indicating loss of long-range order, while local atomic coordination is preserved.
Conclusions:
- Established a general framework for studying phase transition pathways in beam-sensitive materials.
- Provides insights into stabilizing functional phases of perovskites for advanced applications.
- Demonstrates the utility of 4D-STEM for nanoscale materials research.
