Infrared Photodetectors: Recent Advances and Challenges Toward Innovation for Image Sensing Applications

Abstract

High-resolution infrared (IR) imaging technology holds substantial significance across diverse fields including biomedical imaging, environmental surveillance, and IR digital cameras. Current IR detectors used in commercial applications are based on ultra-high vacuum-processed traditional inorganic semiconductors like silicon or III-V compounds (e.g., Si, Ge, and InGaAs). However, the rapid advancements in applications such as autonomous vehicles, virtual reality, and point-of-care healthcare are driving an escalating need for innovative imaging technologies. This review aims to bridge the gap by exploring solution-processed semiconductor photodetectors (PDs), which offer distinct advantages including cost-effectiveness, tunable spectral response, and potential for multiple-exciton generation. These characteristics make them particularly suitable for optical communication, IR imaging, and biological monitoring applications. This review provides comprehensive insights into the research trends pertaining to solution-processed IR detectors and imagers based on colloidal quantum dots, perovskites, organic compounds, and 2D materials. The review commences with the current market worth of image sensors, the fundamental principles of single-pixel and multipixel array IR imagers, and key parameters used to assess IR detector performance. In essence, the review concludes with a summary of recent advancements and future prospects for next-generation IR PD devices and their potential application as an IR imager.