FSU Chemists Revolutionize X-ray Technology with Thin Films

A team of chemists at Florida State University (FSU) has made significant advancements in X-ray technology by developing a new type of thin-film material. This innovation, led by Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry Biwu Ma, enhances the capabilities of X-ray detectors, making them more adaptable for large-area applications in various fields such as medical imaging, manufacturing, and security. The findings were published in the journal Angewandte Chemie.

Traditionally, X-ray technology is associated with medical diagnostics, particularly in detecting fractures or other conditions. However, the applications extend well beyond healthcare. The new thin-film X-ray detectors created by Ma’s team address the limitations of previous technologies, which often relied on complex crystal structures. This new approach allows for a scalable and versatile solution, enhancing the functionality of X-ray imaging in multiple industries.

Innovation in Material Science

The researchers focused on a class of materials known as zero-dimensional organic metal halide hybrids (0D OMHHs). These hybrids combine organic compounds with inorganic metal halides, creating materials with customizable properties. In prior research, Ma’s group demonstrated that single crystals of 0D OMHH could be used for X-ray detection, but growth processes were time-consuming and complex.

The latest development involves producing amorphous OMHH films, which are thin sheets of these hybrids that can be formed into various shapes. This flexibility allows for the creation of larger and custom-shaped X-ray detectors, addressing the needs of industries such as astronomy, materials science, and healthcare. As Ma noted, “If a doctor wants to take an X-ray image of someone’s chest, it’s important to have a detector large enough to cover the whole area for an accurate image.”

The new amorphous films not only facilitate larger detectors but also retain high sensitivity and stability, making them suitable for a range of applications.

Wider Implications and Future Applications

The implications of this work are vast. X-ray technology plays a crucial role in medical diagnostics, non-destructive testing in industries, and security applications. For instance, X-ray detectors are integral to airport security systems and quality control in manufacturing, helping to identify hazardous materials and inspect for product contaminants.

The advantage of large-area X-ray detectors lies in their ability to produce higher-resolution images while improving the speed of examinations. This is particularly beneficial in cargo inspection, where efficiency is vital. According to Wei Yang, chair of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at FSU, “The significance of this work lies in the enabling of possible industrial processing for large-area detection, which is crucial for the material’s applicability.”

In April 2023, a provisional patent application titled “Direct X-ray Detectors Based on Solution-Processed Amorphous Zero-Dimensional Organic Metal Halide Hybrid Films” was filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Ma is also collaborating with industry partners to commercialize these new technologies.

This research was supported by the National Science Foundation and involved contributions from various team members, including doctoral student Oluwadara Olasupo, who served as the lead author, and others from Ma’s research group. The project also included participation from high school student Ethan Kim through FSU’s Young Scholars Program.

The team’s ongoing efforts aim to push the boundaries of what 0D OMHHs can achieve, with Ma expressing optimism about their potential to revolutionize X-ray technologies across multiple fields.