Gold nanorods - Copper (I) oxide core-shell nanoparticles for full-visible to near-infrared responsive photodetectors

Abstract

Photodetector devices were created using plasmonic gold nanorods (AuNRs) and cuprous oxide (Cu₂O) semiconductor nanoparticles (NPs) in a core-shell design. The study evaluated the functionality and performance of Cu₂O NP-based photodiode devices and explored the influence of Au NRs and surface plasmon resonance (SPR) on device response. Both Cu₂O NP devices and core-shell AuNR@Cu₂O NPs showed efficient photon absorption across a broad visible and near-infrared spectrum, with quick light/dark transitions. The devices exhibited electro-optical response on conductive substrates, demonstrating responsivity between 300-1800 nm wavelengths. These photoconductor-type devices alter electrical resistance when exposed to light under low bias voltage, displaying diverse photodetector responses.