Guidelines for the characterization of metal halide nanocrystals

The family of metal halide (MH) nanocrystal materials is still vastly unexplored and unlocking their full potential is just at the beginning. The understanding and, therefore, the optimization of the properties of these nanoscale systems passes through a series of experimental characterization techniques that span compositional analysis, resolution of unknown (nano)crystal phases, determination of the nanocrystal facets, assessment of ligands bound to the surface, and analysis of the optical properties. All of these characterizations, in turn, require specific advanced tools. The data collected are complemented by computational models to attain a complete picture of a given system. Here, we highlight the best practices for the application of these techniques, also based on the expertise developed in our groups.