Emerging perovskite color converter for next-generation wireless communications

Color converters are indispensable components in photoluminescence white-light devices. As optical wireless communication (OWC) systems leveraging solid-state lighting (SSL) continue to evolve, the development of next-generation color conversion materials has become a pressing priority to meet the stringent requirements for both high-quality illumination and high-speed data transmission. Halide perovskite quantum dots (PQDs) have emerged as promising candidates due to their exceptional color purity, high photoluminescence quantum yield, and fast response time. However, the commercial viability of PQD-based SSL-OWC systems is persistently impeded by several challenges, such as insufficient modulation bandwidth, inadequate long-term stability, and reliance on toxic elements. This review delves into the applications of PQD-based color converters within the realm of OWC. Initially, we conduct a theoretical investigation into the factors that influence the modulation bandwidth and transmission rate of PQD-based systems, revealing the significance of reducing PQD particle sizes in enhancing these parameters. Subsequently, we provide a comprehensive overview of optimization strategies across four critical aspects: the selection of excitation sources, the refinement of PQD structure and encapsulation, the deployment of modulation schemes and multiplexing techniques, and the advancement of lead-free PQD alternatives. Finally, we summarize different types of PQD-based OWC applications, including white-light-based visible light communication transmitters, underwater wireless optical communication transmitters, and color-converting photodetectors. These applications underscore the dual functionality of PQD layers in both illumination and the facilitation of wavelength-tunable OWC.