SF State research closes in on next-generation atom-thick photonic devices

University researchers’ photodetector shows enhanced sensitivity and speed, possibly pointing the way to improved data communications, night vision and bioimaging

From microscopes and cameras to night vision devices and optical fiber communications, photodetectors have a wide array of applications. Photodetectors capture and convert light into electrical signals but are often limited to detecting a narrow part of the wavelength spectrum. The materials used to make these devices often hamper efforts to make improved broadband nanoscale photodetectors.

A new device from San Francisco State University Physics & Astronomy Associate Professor AKM Newaz and his graduate student Hon-Loen Sinn may overcome some of these challenges. In a new Advanced Photonics Research paper, the team and their Stanford University collaborators describe the impressive properties of their photodetector that has improved sensitivity in the ultraviolet (UV) to near-infrared light range. They’ve submitted a provisional patent for their device and are working on the main patent application.

Full article: https://news.sfsu.edu/news/sf-state-research-closes-next-generation-ato…