Cmos-compatible SWIR photodetectors using cu₂p₃i₂ microwires
Developing scalable Cu₂P₃I₂ microwire photodetectors for SWIR applications, compatible with CMOS technology, offering low-cost, environmentally-friendly, and high-performance SWIR detection.
Overview
The proposed technology focuses on developing SWIR (short-wave infrared) photodetectors using Cu₂P₃I₂ microwires. These photodetectors are synthesized through a scalable vapor-phase transport process, leveraging abundant and CMOS-compatible elements such as copper, phosphorus, and iodine. The Cu₂P₃I₂ material has a bandgap of around 0.72 eV, making it capable of detecting wavelengths across the 900-1700 nm range. This innovation promises low-cost production, environmental compliance, and excellent air stability, presenting a viable alternative to costly InGaAs-based detectors.
Technical specifications
- Material Composition: Cu₂P₃I₂ microwires
- Bandgap: ~0.72 eV (∼1720 nm)
- Photoresponse Time: Fast, ranging from 40–70 ms
- Quantum Efficiency: Targeting ≥20%
- Dark Current: Targeting ≤3,000 nA/cm²
- Fabrication Process: Scalable vapor-phase transport on Si/SiO₂ substrates
- Integration: Potential for back-end-of-line (BEOL) integration with CMOS platforms
- Environmental Compliance: Uses earth-abundant, RoHS-compliant elements
Technology readiness level
This technology is currently at TRL 3, indicating it is in the experimental proof of concept stage. Ongoing efforts include optimizing synthesis conditions, device fabrication, and characterization to meet key performance metrics. Future work will focus on integration feasibility with CMOS platforms and assessing scalability and cost for pilot-scale production.
About Drexel University
Drexel University is a comprehensive private research university in Philadelphia, recognized for an urban, industry‑embedded model anchored by a longstanding cooperative education program. Year‑round co‑ops create a ready talent pipeline and align sponsored research with real‑world needs. The campus sits within an innovation district with co‑located labs and incubators, enabling companies to collaborate on prototyping with faculty. Through the university’s medical college and clinical partners, industry teams can access clinical expertise and translational pathways. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NIH, NSF, DOE, and DoD. A dedicated technology transfer office manages IP, licensing, corporate research agreements, and startup formation.
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