Novel Nanoscale Material Compositions Help Optimize Infrared Photodetectors

A research team led by Yong-Hang Zhang from the Arizona State University is involved in the development of novel ways using nanoscale materials for optimizing infrared photodetector technology used in national security and defense systems.

ASU engineers are working on technological advances that promise to help enhance infrared photodetection used in sophisticated weapons and surveillance system, industrial and home security systems, medical diagnostics and night vision equipment for law enforcement and driving safety. (Photo by: Orkun Cellek/ASU)

The research team used several ultrathin nanomaterial layers wherein crystals are produced in every layer. The combination of these layered structures forms ‘superlattices.’ Zhang explained that the sensitivity and detection quality of a photodectector depend on the conversion efficiency attained by these crystals.

The detection wavelengths of the superlattices developed by the research team can be widely modified by altering the composition and design of the layered structures. Zhang informed that the infrared photodetector’s sensitivity can be improved by accurately arranging the nanoscale materials into superlattice structures.

The research team utilized a combination of indium arsenide antimonide and indium arsenide to form the superlattice structures. This combination enables devices to produce photo electrons required to offer infrared signal imaging and detection, explained Elizabeth Steenbergen, one of the researchers.

Zhang informed that this combination also decreases the loss of optically agitated electrons, thus improving the carrier lifetime of the electrons by over 10 folds than that can be attained by other conventional material combinations utilized in the technology. Carrier lifetime is an important aspect that has restricted the efficiency of a photodetector in the past. Infrared detectors made of this combination require less cooling, which in turn decreases the power required to operate the devices. Thus, these devices are more cost effective and reliable and pave the way to improve a number of systems such as advanced surveillance systems, guided weaponry, home and industrial security systems, and utilize the infrared detection for road-safety devices and medical imaging.

According to the research team, the device design can be optimized by improving the layering designs of the complex superlattice structures.

Citations

Please use one of the following formats to cite this article in your essay, paper or report:

  • APA

    Arizona State University. (2019, February 12). Novel Nanoscale Material Compositions Help Optimize Infrared Photodetectors. AZoNano. Retrieved on December 11, 2024 from https://www.azonano.com/news.aspx?newsID=24291.

  • MLA

    Arizona State University. "Novel Nanoscale Material Compositions Help Optimize Infrared Photodetectors". AZoNano. 11 December 2024. <https://www.azonano.com/news.aspx?newsID=24291>.

  • Chicago

    Arizona State University. "Novel Nanoscale Material Compositions Help Optimize Infrared Photodetectors". AZoNano. https://www.azonano.com/news.aspx?newsID=24291. (accessed December 11, 2024).

  • Harvard

    Arizona State University. 2019. Novel Nanoscale Material Compositions Help Optimize Infrared Photodetectors. AZoNano, viewed 11 December 2024, https://www.azonano.com/news.aspx?newsID=24291.

Tell Us What You Think

Do you have a review, update or anything you would like to add to this news story?

Leave your feedback
Your comment type
Submit

While we only use edited and approved content for Azthena answers, it may on occasions provide incorrect responses. Please confirm any data provided with the related suppliers or authors. We do not provide medical advice, if you search for medical information you must always consult a medical professional before acting on any information provided.

Your questions, but not your email details will be shared with OpenAI and retained for 30 days in accordance with their privacy principles.

Please do not ask questions that use sensitive or confidential information.

Read the full Terms & Conditions.