ITMO team uses a blunt probe to test perovskite nanoparticle strength

Credit: Dmitry Grigoryev / ITMO NEWS · news.itmo.ru ITMO University physicists are refining durability testing for perovskite nanoparticles, key components in emerging flexible electronics, by swapping the standard atomic force microscope’s sharp needle for a blunt probe functioning as a miniature press. This novel approach avoids damaging the fragile semiconductor compounds, defined by the general formula ABX₃, which are currently being investigated for use in devices like folding screens and solar cells. To further refine accuracy, the team developed a 3D model of the experiment accounting for particle irregularities and probe angle, allowing them to isolate true mechanical properties from geometric errors during compression simulations. “They then adjusted the material parameters in the model until the virtual curve showing the particle’s compression as a function of the probe position matched the experimental curve recorded with the actual microscope,” explains the research. The study detailing this method was published in Applied Physics Letters.

Blunt Probe Technique Measures Perovskite Nanoparticle Durability This shift in methodology addresses a critical flaw in previous testing; the sharp probes routinely destroyed the fragile nanocrystals before accurate measurements could be taken. By swapping the standard atomic force microscope’s sharp needle for a blunt probe functioning as a miniature press, researchers aimed to obtain more reliable data for applications like folding screens and solar cells. Initial tests revealed an error in the calculations: it appeared that the smaller the particle, the more durable it is, even though the material’s durability shouldn’t depend on its size. Further investigation pinpointed the source of the error: irregularities on the particle surfaces and a slight rounding of the blunt probe itself prevented uniform pressure distribution during compression. The refined technique was then applied to two perovskite compounds, CsPbBr₃ and CsPbCl₃, semiconductor materials based on caesium, lead, and halogens, bromine and chlorine. This modeling approach enables accurate calculation of Young’s modulus, a key metric for determining a nanoparticle’s suitability for use in flexible devices.

The team’s work demonstrates a significant improvement in the precision of durability testing. 3D COMSOL Modeling Corrects Irregularities in Nanoparticle Compression To refine calculations of nanoparticle resilience, ITMO University researchers modeled experiments in a virtual environment, accounting for surface imperfections and probe alignment.

The team utilized COMSOL Multiphysics to create precise three-dimensional representations of both cubic perovskite nanoparticles and the atomic force microscope probe employed in testing. This modeling addressed a 20-degree tilt observed in the probe’s angle during compression simulations, a detail previously unaccounted for in durability assessments. Vladislav Kalinichenko and Abolfazl Mahmoodpoor, an engineer and junior researcher respectively, performed the compression modeling as members of Sergey Makarov’s research group. Complementing this work, Iuliia Melchakova, a researcher, and Alexandr Tsvigun, a student pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Applied and Theoretical Physics, conducted quantum-mechanical DFT calculations. These calculations supported the virtual compression tests, providing data that helped determine accurate Young’s modulus. Kseniya Gasnikova, a Master’s student in Photonics and Spintronics, handled the synthesis and characterization of the perovskite samples used in the study. Accurate measurement is vital because repeated bending causes microcracks in perovskites, potentially leading to rapid device failure, and the modeling work helps isolate the material’s intrinsic properties from testing artifacts. The lower the Young’s modulus, the more flexible the material, and therefore the better suited it is for example to foldable devices. When we compress a nanoparticle, its mechanical and electronic properties change: electrons require less energy to split from an atom and start moving inside the crystal. This affects the material’s electron structure and its light-emitting capacity. Vladislav Kalinichenko, the paper’s first author CsPbBr₃ and CsPbCl₃ Demonstrate Young’s Modulus for Flexible Electronics Perovskite compounds CsPbBr₃ and CsPbCl₃ exhibit Young’s moduli of 16 and 24 gigapascals respectively, indicating a balance between durability and flexibility important for applications in foldable electronics. These values, determined through a novel measurement technique, suggest the materials are sufficiently malleable for devices subjected to repeated bending, yet robust enough to withstand typical stresses.

The team’s approach focused on accurately quantifying a nanoparticle’s resistance to deformation, a key metric for assessing its suitability for flexible devices like solar cells.

The team then transferred the experiment to a computer environment, creating precise three-dimensional models of each particle and the probe within COMSOL Multiphysics. The ability to both absorb and emit light efficiently positions perovskites as promising materials for flexible electronics, but their inherent fragility requires precise durability assessment. Future work will focus on comprehensively evaluating the material’s behavior under a large number of recurring deformations to further refine its potential for widespread use. Source: https://news.itmo.ru/en/science/photonics/news/15004/ More like thisPhysicsTiny spheres amplify light hundreds of times overPhysicsPhysics reveals silicon film switches light a billion times per secondQuantum FeaturesRussia Quantum Computing Companies 2026: Complete Vendor GuideTechnology NewsQuantum Probe Detects Gastrointestinal CancerStay currentSee today’s quantum computing news on Quantum Zeitgeist for the latest breakthroughs in qubits, hardware, algorithms, and industry deals. Tags: