2D Materials for Photothermoelectric Detectors: Mechanisms, Materials, and Devices

TLDR

2D materials, with exceptional optical, thermal, and electrical properties, are emerging as promising candidates for high‑performance photodetectors, yet challenges remain in improving their performance, particularly for broadband mid‑infrared and terahertz detection via the photothermoelectric effect. The paper reviews recent progress on photothermoelectric photodetectors based on layered 2D materials. The review discusses the photothermoelectric mechanism, analyzes optical and thermoelectric properties of various 2D materials, and summarizes strategies to enhance photothermal and thermoelectric conversion for improved detector performance. The authors highlight remaining challenges and future prospects for 2D thermoelectric materials and PTE detectors.

Abstract

Abstract 2D materials, with outstanding optical, thermal, and electric properties, are emerging as promising candidates for fabricating high‐performance photodetectors. Recently, impressive progresses have been made in this area and some challenges are remaining to improve the properties of photodetectors. As one important part in the mainstream photodetection mechanisms, photothermoelectric (PTE) effect is showing unique priorities in fabricating advanced photodetectors, especially broadband detection operating in the mid‐infrared and terahertz spectral regime. Here, recent progress on PTE photodetectors based on layered 2D materials is reviewed. The physical mechanism of PTE effect is first discussed and then the optical and thermoelectric properties of various 2D materials are analyzed. Furthermore, strategies to improve the photodetection performance of PTE detectors are summarized in two major categories including enhanced photothermal conversion and thermoelectric conversion processes. Finally, the challenges and prospects for future research in 2D thermoelectric materials and PTE detectors are also provided.