Monolayer-to-Multilayer Dimensionality Reconstruction in a Hybrid Perovskite for Exploring Bulk Photovoltaic Effect Enables Passive X-ray Detection

Halide hybrid perovskites are attracting considerable attention as highly promising candidates for directly sensing X-ray radiation, but it is challenging to realize passive X-ray detection without an external power supply. However, the bulk photovoltaic effect (BPVE) in ferroelectrics promotes the independent separation of photoexcited carriers. Herein, by dimensionality reconstruction of a pure-two-dimensional (P-2D) monolayered perovskite (CH3OC3H9N)(2)PbBr4, we obtained a quasi-two-dimensional (Q-2D) ferroelectric (CH3OC3H9N)(2)CsPb2Br7. Converting P-2D into Q-2D perovskite stimulates a significant BPVE associated with robust ferroelectricity, as well as an enhanced mobility lifetime product. These features show the promise of the fabrication of the first passive X-ray detector based on ferroelectrics with an impressive sensitivity up to 410 mu C Gy(-1) cm(-2) at zero bias, which is even superior to the value of the state-of-the-art alpha-Se detector operated at relatively high bias.

Automated summary

The conversion of two-dimensional perovskite into quasi-two-dimensional ferroelectric stimulates a significant bulk photovoltaic effect associated with robust ferroelectricity and enhanced charge carrier mobility lifetime product. This feature shows the promise of the fabrication of the first passive X-ray detector based on ferroelectrics with impressive sensitivity.