By Dave DeFusco

A startup founded by an Applied Physical Sciences professor is revolutionizing X-ray imaging with pioneering perovskite technology. By harnessing the exceptional properties of perovskite materials, the company has developed detectors that deliver dramatically higher sensitivity, sharper resolution and greater durability than traditional X-ray detection methods—all at lower cost.

“This breakthrough not only enhances medical imaging and industrial inspections but also paves the way for more accessible and efficient diagnostic tools, making high-performance X-ray technology more affordable and widely available,” said Dr. Jinsong Huang, who is founder of Perotech and Louis D. Rubin Jr. Distinguished Professor at UNC.

He and his team, including principal scientist Walter Weare, engineer Aaron Holt and scientist Haoyang Jiao developed X-ray imaging technology using tiny crystals made from metal halide perovskite.

“These materials are 100,000 times better at moving and holding an electrical charge than amorphous selenium, the material currently used in direct X-ray detectors,” said Dr. Weare. “This ability to transport charge efficiently is important because it affects how well the detector captures and processes X-ray images, making them clearer and more sensitive.” 

This results in significantly higher detection sensitivity—up to 1,000 times greater than amorphous selenium-based detectors—allowing for reduced radiation doses while maintaining superior image clarity. Perovskite, a highly flexible material, has the potential to be integrated into various applications, including wearable solar panels for charging mobile devices, tent-mounted power sources for outdoor enthusiasts and even solar panels for electric vehicles.

Traditional X-ray detectors work in two ways: some use an extra layer to convert X-rays into light before creating an image, while others, like those made with amorphous selenium, directly turn X-rays into electrical signals. Although selenium detectors produce sharp images, they don’t work well at high temperatures and struggle to detect stronger X-rays.

“Perovskite materials solve these problems by lowering radiation exposure for patients by absorbing X-rays more efficiently, producing clearer, sharper images without blurring,” said Dr. Jiao, “and allowing for thinner, more flexible detectors that don’t require heavy glass, making them lighter and easier to use.”

Perotech’s innovations extend beyond medical imaging. Their perovskite materials are being explored for applications in: Security scanners for higher sensitivity X-ray detectors for baggage and cargo screening; industrial imaging for enhanced non-destructive testing for quality control; and scientific research for high-resolution detectors for advanced materials analysis.

With UNC’s support, Perotech is actively collaborating with medical device manufacturers, research institutions and government agencies to accelerate the commercialization of its perovskite-based X-ray detectors. Notably, the company has partnered with leading healthcare imaging firms to integrate perovskite technology into next-generation radiology equipment, demonstrating its real-world viability and industry support. The company is also exploring opportunities to integrate AI-driven imaging analysis to enhance diagnostic accuracy and improve disease detection.

Over the next five to 10 years, the company aims to further refine its perovskite technology, enhancing its stability, affordability and performance across various applications. The potential for perovskite materials extends beyond solar cells and X-ray detectors, with emerging research exploring their use in memory storage, LED displays and advanced semiconductor devices.

“By harnessing the power of perovskite, Perotech is not only redefining renewable energy solutions but also making medical imaging safer and more effective,” said Holt. “With continued innovation and strategic partnerships, the company is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of sustainable energy and healthcare technology.”