High-Detectivity Polymer Photodetectors with Spectral Response from 300 nm to 1450 nm

TLDR

Polymer photodetectors are employed in low‑light optical sensing for cars and cameras, yet most devices are limited to narrow spectral ranges. The device design incorporates blocking layers that markedly reduce dark current and noise. The authors produced polymer photodetectors with a spectral response from 300 nm to 1450 nm and exceptionally high sensitivity, outperforming inorganic semiconductor detectors at liquid‑helium temperature. Gong et al.

Abstract

Polymer Photodetectors Optical sensing is used in a wide range of applications, such as low-light detection systems in cars and cameras. Most photodetectors have a limited spectral range and can only detect a narrow range of wavelengths. Gong et al. (p. 1665 , published online 13 August) developed polymer photodetectors with extremely broad spectral response and exceptionally high sensitivity that can exceed the response of an inorganic semiconductor detector at liquid helium temperature. A key aspect in the device design is the inclusion of blocking layers to reduce significantly the dark current or noise in the devices.