Novel Photodetector

Why in News?

Recently, Indian researchers have developed a novel lead-free, eco-friendly photodetector, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional toxic lead-based photodetectors.

• Photodetectors are sensors that can convert the photon energy of light into an electrical signal.
• Developed by – International Advanced Research Centre for Powder Metallurgy and New Materials (ARCI), Hyderabad
• In collaboration with IIT Hyderabad. 
• Nodal Authority – Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India.
• Components – Material – It is based on the double perovskite Cs₂AgBiBr₆ that delivers strong and stable performance.
• Electrodes – Low-cost carbon electrodes.
• Design – Hole Transport Material (HTM)-free, fabricated at room temperature via a one-step coating method.
• Key Features – Eco-Friendly – The novel Photodetector is lead-free and environmentally friendly.
• Sensitive – It exhibits a strong response to visible light.
• Self-Powered – Efficient charge separation enables self-powered operation without external voltage.
• Long-term stability – Retains >90% performance after 60 days.
• Fabrication – Made using a one-step coating at room temperature under normal conditions, reducing cost and complexity.
• HTM-Free – Works without protective layers, so no expensive vacuum or glovebox is required.
• Applications –
  • Consumer electronics (cameras, smart wearables).
  • Industrial monitoring.
  • Security systems.
  • Biomedical imaging.
• Benefits – Reduces toxicity associated with lead-based photodetectors.
• Low-cost and energy-efficient due to self-powered operation.
• Durable under real-world environmental conditions.
• Significance – Supports India’s goals of green manufacturing, sustainable materials, and self-reliance in next-generation electronics.

References

PIB | Novel Photodetector