High-performance GaSb planar PN junction detector

Abstract

This paper examines GaSb short-wavelength infrared detectors employing planar PN junctions. The fabrication was based on the Zn diffusion process and the diffusion temperature was optimized. Characterization revealed a 50% cut-off wavelength of 1.73 μm, a maximum detectivity of 8.73 × 10¹⁰ cm·Hz^1/2/W, and a minimum dark current density of 1.02 × 10⁻⁵ A/cm². Additionally, a maximum quantum efficiency of 60.3% was achieved. Subsequent optimization of fabrication enabled the realization of a 320 × 256 focal plane array that exhibited satisfactory imaging results. Remarkably, the GaSb planar detectors demonstrated potential in low-cost short wavelength infrared imaging, without requiring material epitaxy or deposition.