Printed quantum dot photodetectors for applications from the high-energy to the infrared region

Abstract

Photodetectors convert light into electrical signals and are crucial for scientific research and practical applications. Colloidal quantum dots (QDs) have emerged as a superior material for fabricating printable next-generation QD photodetectors, allowing facile fabrication, cost-effectiveness, and high flexibility. Their ability to detect a broad spectrum of signals, from high-energy to infrared signals, facilitates diverse technological applications, including medical imaging, security screening, environmental monitoring, and communication systems. Over recent years, a range of deposition techniques for printed QD-based photodetectors have been developed, covering a broad spectrum of photodetection applications. Significant efforts are being made to overcome the challenges associated with various deposition techniques, aiming to enhance the performance of QD-based photodetectors for specific spectra detection, therefore facilitating their practical deployment. This review aims to provide a clear understanding of the state-of-the-art developments in the field of printed QD-based photodetection in terms of the deposition techniques and different spectrum photodetectors. The review begins with the fundamental properties of colloidal QDs and their suitability for printable electronics. Subsequently, various deposition techniques and photodetector structures are explored, highlighting the advancements and applications of these QDs in broad-spectrum photon detection. Furthermore, we discuss the current challenges and potential solutions for the development of QD-based photodetectors. The findings and recommendations of this review are expected to inspire future research on printed QD-based photodetectors.