Bragg coherent diffractive imaging for defects analysis: Principles, applications, and challenges

Abstract

The ability to visualize crystalline defects and lattice distortions at the nanoscale holds profound implications for enhancing material properties and optimizing their design. Bragg coherent diffractive imaging (BCDI) emerged as a powerful technique due to its simplicity and high sensitivity to lattice strains. This review examines recent advancements in BCDI, highlighting its capability to uncover defects under various experimental conditions. It discusses fundamental principles and data analysis intricacies as well as BCDI's applications in characterizing structural and functional materials. Furthermore, it offers perspectives on the current limitations of BCDI and the potential implications of synchrotron upgrades. By providing these insights, the review aims to enhance the role of BCDI in advancing materials science and nanotechnology.