Preparation and Applications of Innovative Optoelectronic Films and Materials

Dear Colleagues,

The rapid evolution of optoelectronic materials and thin-film technologies has revolutionized applications spanning energy harvesting, sensing, display systems, flexible electronics, photodetection, and next-generation optoelectronic devices. Recent advancements in the design, synthesis, and functionalization of innovative thin films and nanostructured materials have unlocked unprecedented opportunities to tailor optical, electronic, and interfacial properties for targeted performance. However, challenges persist in achieving high efficiency, long-term stability, scalability, and cost-effectiveness, while addressing emerging demands for sustainability, miniaturization, and multifunctionality. This Special Issue focuses on cutting-edge research and interdisciplinary approaches to advance the preparation, characterization, and application of optoelectronic films and materials.

Key areas of interest include novel fabrication techniques (e.g., solution processing, vapor deposition, atomic layer deposition, roll-to-roll printing), nanostructured engineering (quantum dots, perovskites, 2D materials, and plasmonic/metamaterials), and hybrid/composite systems that enhance light–matter interactions, charge transport, and environmental resilience. Equally critical are applications in photovoltaics, light-emitting diodes (LEDs), photodetectors, optical coatings, wearable electronics, and energy-efficient smart windows. Contributions exploring the interplay between material structure, processing parameters, and device performance—supported by experimental, computational, or theoretical insights—are highly encouraged. Additionally, studies addressing scalability, lifecycle analysis, and integration into real-world systems will provide valuable perspectives for transitioning lab-scale innovations to industrial adoption.

This Special Issue aims to foster collaboration among researchers in materials science, chemistry, physics, and engineering to address current bottlenecks and chart future directions for optoelectronic technologies.

Potential topics of this Special Issue include the following:

• Synthesis and Processing‌: advanced deposition techniques (CVD, ALD, sputtering, and spin-coating); solution-processed films (inkjet/roll-to-roll printing and blade coating); low-temperature and energy-efficient fabrication method; and self-assembly and template-guided growth of nanostructured films.
• Material Innovations‌: perovskite-based films for photovoltaics and LEDs; 2D materials (graphene, TMDs, and MXenes) and heterostructure; quantum dots, plasmonic nanoparticles, and metamaterials; and organic–inorganic hybrid systems and nanocomposites.
• Device Applications‌: high-efficiency solar cells and transparent conductive electrodes; flexible/wearable optoelectronics and stretchable displays; ultrafast photodetectors and optical sensors; and energy-saving smart windows and adaptive optical coatings.
• Characterization and Modeling‌: in situ analysis of film growth and degradation; multiscale modeling of optoelectronic properties and interfacial dynamics; and machine learning-guided material discovery and optimization.
• Stability and Scalability‌: encapsulation strategies for environmental durability; large-area fabrication and uniformity control; and recycling and sustainability of optoelectronic materials.
• Emerging Concepts‌: bio-inspired optoelectronic systems; photonic-integrated circuits and neuromorphic devices; and light–matter coupling in polaritonics and excitonic materials.

Dr. Hanlu Zhang
Prof. Dr. Junlu Sun
Dr. Xuexia Chen
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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• optoelectronic films
• 2D materials
• optoelectronic devices
• optical coatings