Self-Powered UVC Photodetector Based on Europium Metal–Organic Framework for Facile Monitoring Invisible Fire

Abstract

The effective use of a europium metal-organic framework (Eu-MOF) as a photoabsorber material has been reported. Using the advantages of Eu-MOFs including simple preparation, wide bandgap structure, and stability in the environment, a self-powered and high UVC-selectivity detector based on Eu-MOF nanoparticles was prepared with a simple device geometry. The as-fabricated photodetector was highly sensitive to 254 nm UV illumination without an external power supply. Accordingly, it exhibited a high UVC-to-UVA rejection ratio (<i>I</i>₂₅₄/<i>I</i>₃₆₅ ≈ 40) and UVC-to-solar rejection ratio (<i>I</i>₂₅₄/<i>I</i>_{solar light} ≈ 34), a fast response time of 98/122 ms, a comparable on/off photocurrent ratio (107.33), and superior stability. The self-powered Eu-MOF photodetector can detect and monitor UV emission from an invisible fire in an early state at room temperature, suggesting practical use as a potential optoelectronic device.