Graphene and ZnO NPs-enhanced photodetectors based on SiO NWs: Synthesis, characterization, and applications

In this study, we successfully synthesized and characterized silicon oxide nanowires/graphene/zinc oxide nanoparticles (SiO NWs/Graphene and ZnO NPs) hybrid nanostructures using pulsed laser deposition (PLD) technique. The characterization of the crystalline phase, morphology, and optical properties of the synthesized hybrid nanostructure systems revealed that the addition of graphene and ZnO NPs led to increased roughness values and changes in the surface topography of the films. The optical properties showed that the addition of graphene and zinc oxide enhanced the reflectivity in specific regions, including the UV and visible ranges, and improved the collection of charge carriers. The SiO NWs/Graphene and ZnO NPs was assessed as a photodetector and exhibited excellent performance, with high quantum efficiency, detectivity, and responsivity in the visible and near-infrared regions, making it a promising platform for the development of next-generation optoelectronic devices in various fields, including security, environmental monitoring, and medical diagnostics.