Research Paper: Multiple Narrowband Bidirectional Self-Powered Organic Photodetector with Fast Response

Summary

This study introduces a novel single-junction, bidirectional organic photodetector (OPD) capable of self-powered, fast-response, dual narrowband detection in the ultraviolet (UV) and visible spectrum. The main goal was to achieve multiband detection without resorting to complex multi-stacking or voltage-modulated charge collection methods. Utilising a simple device architecture (glass/Au/PEDOT:PSS/PM6:Y12/PFN-Br/Ag) with a thin (120 nm) photoactive layer, the researchers demonstrated distinct narrowband responses: approximately 320 nm (UV) when illuminated from the Ag side, and 500–600 nm (visible) when illuminated from the Au side. Key findings include a high specific detectivity of over 10^10 Jones and a record-fast bandwidth of 320–410 kHz at 0 V, surpassing many existing multiband OPDs. The device's capabilities were successfully demonstrated in encrypted UV communication, and the potential for a third near-infrared (NIR) band was also shown. The core innovation lies in engineering device structures and tailoring material/electrode properties to achieve multiband detection purely through light management.

Why it Matters

These findings are crucial for advancing high-resolution imaging and optical wireless communication, as they offer a simple, scalable, and energy-efficient solution for multiband photodetection. The self-powered nature, high speed, and narrow spectral bands make these OPDs ideal for secure optical communication and advanced multispectral imaging applications. The solution processability and compatibility with flexible substrates also position them for low-cost, large-scale production in fields such as wearable electronics and biomedical devices.

How Fluxim Tools Used

The PAIOS (Fluxim AG) all-in-one characterisation system was employed for I–V curves and transient photocurrent measurements. This provided essential experimental data for the electrical characterization of the OPDs, contributing to the understanding of their self-powered operation and fast response speed.

Publication Details

Xia, Y. and Georgiadou, D.G. (2025), Multiple Narrowband Bidirectional Self‐Powered Organic Photodetector with Fast Response. Laser & Photonics Reviews, 19, 2401032. https://doi.org/10.1002/lpor.202401032.