Developing novel synthesis methods for multinary materials is pivotal in advancing energy conversion technologies, such as photoelectrocatalysis, electrocatalysis, and battery systems. Plasma-growth processes, particularly plasma-enhanced pulsed laser deposition (PE-PLD) combined with flash photonic heating, represent an innovative approach to accessing new chemical spaces unattainable through conventional solid-state reactions. PE-PLD leverages high-energy plasma to enhance the deposition of thin films with controlled stoichiometry and tailored properties. Flash photonic heating further complements PE-PLD by providing rapid, high-temperature annealing that promotes the formation of novel crystal phases and the stabilization of metastable structures, with a potential to be grown on various substrates (including temperature-sensitive substrates). This combination enables precise control over the material's microstructure and composition, enhancing catalytic activity, improved charge transport, and increased stability in energy conversion applications. Exploring and stabilizing new chemical spaces is crucial for developing high-performance materials with optimized properties for specific energy conversion processes. The combined synthesis methodology opens a diverse synthetic platform that can allow for incorporating multiple elements into a single material, creating multinary compounds with unique functionalities.
Research into these advanced synthesis techniques aims to unlock the full potential of multinary materials, pushing the boundaries of current technological capabilities. By overcoming the limitations of traditional synthesis methods, PE-PLD combined with flash photonic heating offers a promising pathway for designing next-generation materials that can meet the growing demands for efficient, sustainable, and reliable energy conversion systems. This approach holds the promise of significantly advancing the field of energy conversion, contributing to the development of cleaner and more efficient energy technologies.
