Photoluminescent and superhydrophobic nanocomposites of perovskite nanocrystals

Abstract

Perovskite nanocrystals (PNCs) have found extensive utility across diverse technological applications in optoelectronics; nevertheless, their susceptibility to environmental instability poses a significant constraint on their practicality. Within this investigation, we present a novel and facile approach for the development of highly stable superhydrophobic PNCs. These engineered superhydrophobic perovskite nanocrystal composites, referred to as HSNPs@PNCs, demonstrate remarkable optoelectronic attributes, provided that their inherent instability can be effectively mitigated. HSNPs@PNCs manifest an impressive water contact angle of 172° and an exceedingly low sliding angle of 1°, thus showcasing their exceptional superhydrophobicity. Of particular note is the extraordinary stability exhibited by HSNPs@PNCs despite aqueous environments, thermal fluctuations, and UV exposure. Remarkably, even after a prolonged 30-day immersion in water, this nanocomposite maintains an outstanding emission efficiency of 75 %. Furthermore, the method of application through a spray deposition technique circumvents sample size limitations, thereby amplifying their suitability for industrial applications. Moreover, this study extends the practicality of HSNPs@PNCs by enabling their homogeneous coating onto various surfaces such as glass, fabric, and aluminum, yielding luminescent superhydrophobic surfaces. This approach liberates the substrates from constraints, significantly broadening the potential spectrum of applications for these materials within diverse industrial and technological domains.