Short-wave infrared photodetector

Abstract

Short-wavelength infrared light with a wavelength range of 1–3 µm is crucial in various fields related to human activities. It has a better penetrating ability than visible light in harsh weather conditions (such as nighttime, fog, and dust) and can produce higher resolution natural images compared to mid-wavelength infrared and long-wavelength infrared light. In addition, the corresponding devices can work at room temperature without refrigeration, which is beneficial to reducing the cost and the size of the equipment, since no thermal imaging is involved. To date, many reviews have discussed the progress of infrared photodetectors from the perspective of a single type of material (such as two-dimensional metal chalcogenides, colloidal quantum dots, conjugated polymers, etc.) or a single synthesis/enhancement strategy (solution-processable, surface plasmon, optical field manipulation, etc.). As discussions from a single perspective are relatively one-sided, a more comprehensive overview is required. Herein, we review the recent research progress on SWIR photodetectors, especially the advantages and disadvantages of devices based on different materials, and provide some perspectives for the future application of SWIR photodetectors.

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