Multiscale modeling and optimal operation of millifluidic synthesis of perovskite quantum dots: Towards size-controlled continuous manufacturing

Abstract

Inorganic lead halide perovskite quantum dots (QDs) have emerged as a promising semiconducting nanomaterial candidate for widespread applications, including next-generation solar cells, displays, and photocatalysts. The optoelectronic properties of colloidal QDs are majorly dictated by their bandgap energy (related to their size). Thus, it is important to fine-tune the size while having fast and continuous production of QDs. However, the mass and heat transfer limitations of batch reactors with batch-to-batch variations have hindered precise control over the size-dependent optoelectronic properties of QDs. Thus, to address this knowledge gap, we propose a multiscale model for continuous flow manufacturing of colloidal perovskite QDs. Specifically, a first-principled kinetic Monte Carlo model is integrated with a continuum model to describe a plug-flow crystallizer (PFC). The PFC has two manipulated inputs, precursor concentration and superficial flow velocity, to fine-tune the size of QDs. Furthermore, a neural network based surrogate model is designed to identify an optimal input trajectory which will ensure that the desired QD size is achieved, thereby taking a step towards controlled and reliable nanomanufacturing of QDs.