Sub-bandgap organic-inorganic heterojunction for SWIR photodetectors
A novel SWIR photodetector using organic-inorganic heterojunctions with NIR photoresponse from 700 to 1500 nm. It employs MoO3 and organic molecules to create a charge-transfer complex for broad absorption, scalable for various substrates.
Overview
We present an innovative short-wave infrared (SWIR) photodetector leveraging a unique organic-inorganic heterojunction capable of NIR photoresponse between 700 and 1500 nm. This groundbreaking approach utilizes a hybrid architecture combining a metal oxide semiconductor (MoO3) with small organic molecules to form a charge-transfer complex. This results in broad and intense absorption across the NIR spectrum, ideal for enhanced photoelectric response in photodetectors. The technology is scalable, cost-effective, and free from toxic materials, making it adaptable to a variety of substrates.
Technical specifications
The proposed architecture is constructed via vacuum-thermal evaporation, ensuring high-quality film formation. Key materials include MoO3, a widely available metal oxide, and small organic molecules such as NPD and CBP. These components are selected for their favorable energy level alignment, ease of synthesis, and excellent thermal stability. The heterojunction can be realized in both planar and bulk configurations. Prototypes will be optimized for critical parameters including external quantum efficiency (EQE), responsivity, dark current, and detectivity.
Technology readiness level
Currently at TRL 4, this technology has undergone initial validation through the preparation of organic-inorganic heterostructures and the development of sublimation protocols. Further validation is planned over the next two years, focusing on device optimization and prototype testing in partnership with industry for large-scale manufacturing.
About National Research Council
Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR) is Italy’s national public research organization, a large multi‑disciplinary network of institutes distributed across the country and coordinated from Rome. Its model places researchers in regional campuses and co‑located laboratories next to universities, hospitals, and industry, enabling rapid collaboration and access to shared core facilities, testbeds, and prototyping. Companies engage through framework agreements, contract research, joint labs, and researcher secondments, with dedicated liaison staff to streamline engagements. Research is supported by competitive funding from the European Commission, Italian national ministries, and regional programs. A technology transfer office advances IP protection, licensing, and spin‑out formation.
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