Our team has achieved systematic innovations from basic theory to practical application regarding key scientific issues including the design, construction, and control of the interface of low-dimensional semiconductor materials to facilitate their functionalization and application. We proposed an approach for the interface-induced controlled growth of low-dimensional semiconductor materials, which has realized the controllable preparation of a new ZnO nano-tetrapod structure as well as high-quality one-dimensional arrays. On this basis, a one-dimensional ZnO high-current electron emission cold cathode was developed, which is used as a key part of the nuclear simulation test equipment. In addition, the team has introduced a new idea of controlling the performance of low-dimensional semiconductor materials and devices through trans-scale multi-field coupling, and established an in-situ regulation and characterization linkage system under multi-field coupling including force, light, electric, and thermal fields, based upon which a multi-field coupling regulation strategy is developed to optimize the performance of optoelectronic devices. Furthermore, we proposed a new method for the cross-dimensional design and construction of the heterostructures of functional devices using low-dimensional semiconductor materials, which has been used to build a variety of high-performance sensing and energy conversion devices. Finally, a strongly absorbent material for broadband electromagnetic waves is produced, the performance of which has met the technical standards of stealth weapons and equipment. The results of these studies have promoted the functionalization of low-dimensional semiconductor materials and the advancement of optoelectronic devices utilizing new principles, laying a solid foundation for the development of advanced defense weapons and equipment. The achievements won the second prize of the 2018 National Natural Science Award.

Fig. 1 Award Certificate

Fig. 2 Preparation of a new ZnO nano-tetrapod structure and large-size, high-quality, one-dimensional arrays through interface-induced controlled growth

Fig. 3 Cold cathodes in a large-size one-dimensional ZnO-array are implemented in high-power induction accelerators, thereby improving the development of nuclear explosion simulation equipment in China