Topic: Materials Science

Scientists at the University of California, Davis discovered a unique property in perovskite crystals. When hit with light, these crystals can change shape and then return to their original form.

Perovskites are special materials that can be made from a mix of organic and inorganic components. They are less expensive to produce than traditional materials like silicon and gallium arsenide. Researchers at the University of California, Davis studied perovskite crystals and found that they can change their shape when exposed to light. This property is called photostriction.

The researchers used X-ray measurements to monitor how the atomic structure of the crystals shifted when hit with laser light. They found that the crystals' internal lattice quickly changed when light was shone on them, but then returned to its original arrangement when the light was removed. This cycle can be repeated many times.

One of the most exciting things about perovskites is their flexibility. Scientists can control how strongly the material responds to light by adjusting its chemical makeup. The strength of the shape change can also be tuned, depending on the color and intensity of the light.

Why It Matters

This discovery could lead to new types of devices that are activated or adjusted by light instead of electricity. This technology has the potential to make our lives more efficient and sustainable.

Key Facts

• Perovskite crystals can change their shape when exposed to light.
• The crystals' internal lattice quickly changes when hit with laser light, but then returns to its original arrangement when the light is removed.
• Scientists can control how strongly the material responds to light by adjusting its chemical makeup.
• The strength of the shape change can be tuned, depending on the color and intensity of the light.
• This technology has the potential to make our lives more efficient and sustainable.

Key Terms

Perovskite

A type of material that can be made from a mix of organic and inorganic components.

Implications

This discovery could lead to new types of devices that are activated or adjusted by light instead of electricity. This technology has the potential to make our lives more efficient and sustainable.