High-performance, self-powered UV photodetector based on Au nanoparticles decorated ZnO/CuI heterostructure

Self-powered Ultraviolet (UV) photodetectors (PDs) have attracted great attention due to their outstanding performance. Herein, we report the successful fabrication of self-powered UV PDs based on ZnO/CuI/Au heterojunction. An ultra-high on/off ratio of 4250 and fast rise/decay times of 0.41/0.08 s have been demonstrated from the ZnO/CuI/Au PD. Moreover, the PD exhibits a high responsivity of 61.5 mA/W and detectivity of 1.7 x 10(10) Jones. The device displays long-term cyclic stability with 98.9% retention after 1000 cycles continuous test and superior environmental stability with 97.1% retention tested after 6 months. The synergistic effects of plasmonic Au nanoparticles and ZnO/CuI pn heterostructure play important roles in the enhancement of the photodetect ability. The concept of employing plasmonic Au nanoparticles onto the heterostructure indicates huge potential in achieving self-powered UV PDs for practical applications. (C) 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

Self-powered ultraviolet photodetectors based on ZnO/CuI/Au heterojunction exhibit outstanding performance with ultra-high on/off ratio, fast rise/decay times, high responsivity, and detectivity, as well as long-term cyclic and environmental stability. The synergetic effects of plasmonic Au nanoparticles and ZnO/CuI pn heterostructure play crucial roles in enhancing the photodetection capability, showing great potential for practical applications in self-powered UV PDs.