Enhanced photoluminescence and stability of CsPbBr3 perovskite nanocrystals through AuCl doping

Abstract This study delves into the transformative effects of inorganic gold chloride (AuCl) doping on all-inorganic cesium lead bromide (CsPbBr 3 ) colloidal perovskite quantum dots (PeQDs). Using a precise hot injection synthesis method, AuCl was introduced at concentrations ranging from 0 to 10%, enabling a comprehensive analysis of its impact on the structural, morphological, and optical characteristics of CsPbBr 3 PeQDs. We systematically investigated how varying AuCl levels influence photoluminescence (PL), PL quantum yield (PLQY), and the stability of these quantum dots. Advanced characterization techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), UV–Vis absorption, steady-state PL, absolute PL measurement, and time-resolved PL (TRPL), provided a detailed insight into these changes. Our findings indicate that AuCl doping is successfully integrated into CsPbBr 3 PeQDs, with 5% identified as the optimal concentration. At this level, the quantum dots show enhanced PLQY, superior crystallinity, and increased stability at 50 °C and in ethanol solvent compared to undoped samples. While higher doping levels reduce QY and PL slightly, they still outperform the undoped CsPbBr 3 PeQDs. These results demonstrate that AuCl doping can fine-tune the structural and optical properties of CsPbBr 3 PeQDs, marking a significant step forward in developing tailored materials for advanced optoelectronic applications.