Stable and highly sensitive self-powered X-ray detection via high-density CsPbBr-type Dion-Jacobson trilayer hybrid perovskites

Dion-Jacobson (DJ)-type organic-inorganic hybrid perovskites have emerged as promising candidates for X-ray detection owing to their exceptional stability and remarkable X-ray absorption ability. Nevertheless, achieving enhanced detection sensitivity continues to pose a significant challenge in this research domain. Herein, we have successfully synthesized and grown a DJ-type (4-AMP)Cs₂Pb₃Br₁₀ (1, 4-AMP²⁺ = 4-ammoniomethylpiperidinium) hybrid perovskite single crystal with a high density of 3.966 g cm⁻³. This density value is the highest reported value in DJ-type hybrid perovskite materials to date. Benefiting from its high density that provides strong X-ray absorption capability, 1 exhibits excellent X-ray detection performance under a bias voltage of 100 V, achieving a sensitivity value of 6.1 × 10³ µC Gy⁻¹ cm⁻². This represents the highest value reported to date among CsPbBr-based DJ-type hybrid perovskites. Notably, 1 crystallizes in the polar space group Pmc2₁ and demonstrates remarkable self-powered X-ray detection capabilities, including a high sensitivity of 221.3 µC Gy⁻¹ cm⁻² and a low detection limit of 54.4 nGy s⁻¹. Excitingly, 1 also exhibits favourable environmental stability: after three months of ambient air exposure, the device retains 84.3% of its initial detection efficiency. This study provides valuable insights for advancing the development of high-performance X-ray detection devices with enhanced operational stability. © 2025 The Royal Society of Chemistry.