Fabrication and Characterization of 2D Layered Perovskites with a Gradient Band Gap

Vertical gradient band-gap heterostructures of two-dimensional (2D) layered perovskites have attracted considerable research interest due to their superior optoelectronic properties and demonstrated potential for use in optical devices. However, its fabrication has been challenging. In this investigation, 2D Ruddlesden-Popper mixed halide perovskite single crystals with a vertical gradient band gap were synthesized by using a solid-state halide diffusion process. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) measurements after diffusion confirm that the crystalline and morphology remain intact. The transmittance and photoluminescence (PL) spectra show the formation of a vertical gradient band gap that is ascribed to gradient halide distribution through halide intermixing. The mixed halide crystal exhibits high stability with completely suppressed phase segregation in the time-dependent PL measurement. The time-resolved photoluminescence (TRPL) spectra prove that the mixed halide sample has an enhanced carrier transport due to the Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) effect. Besides, the halide diffusion behavior is found to be different from the previously proposed "layer-by-layer" diffusion model in exfoliated crystals. The gradient band-gap structure is critical for various applications in which vertical carrier transport is demanded.