2 Minute read
This joint PhD project is based at the University of Melbourne with a 12 month stay at the Shanghai Jiao Tong University.
The main objectives of this project are to:
- Investigate novel photodetectors for the mid-to long-wave infrared spectral range based on new nanomaterials and nano-optics.
- Develop new imaging and spectroscopy systems by combining these devices with spatial light modulators.
The details
Recent advances in nanomaterials present opportunities for novel photodetector devices and imaging and spectroscopy systems. Much of the previous work in this field has been in the visible and near-infrared spectral bands. The mid-to long-wave infrared spectral range has been far less explored, despite the abundant applications in this wavelength range. Here, we will investigate novel photodetectors for this spectral range based on new nanomaterials (primarily by SJTU) and nano-optics (primarily at UoM). We will also develop new imaging and spectroscopy systems by combining these devices with spatial light modulators.
We propose a research program on the development of IR photodetectors based on nano-optics and ultra-thin materials. For the latter, we will investigate what are known as two-dimensional (2D) materials. Such photodetector devices present the opportunity for room temperature operation.
Conventional infrared photodetectors generally require cooling. This is because, by definition, infrared radiation comprises photons with small energies, generally detected by semiconductors with small bandgaps. In such materials, carriers are thermally generated at high rates at room temperature, degrading the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). Cooling (e.g. by liquid nitrogen) mitigates this but adds substantially to size, weight, power consumption and cost.
We propose to develop new types of photodetectors that combine semiconductors with small bandgaps with 2D materials and with nano-optical structures. These will operate using a principle termed “photogating”. Light will be absorbed by the small bandgap semiconductor material, resulting in the generation of electron-hole pairs. These carriers will in turn modify the conductance of the 2D material. It will then be possible to detect infrared radiation by monitoring the resistance of the 2D material.
This project will be complemented by the related project on Mid-infrared photodetectors based on atomically thin 2D materials. The collaboration will ensure the successful completion of both projects.
The graduate researcher on this project is: Seyed Saleh Mousavi Khaleghi
Supervision team
University of Melbourne supervisor:
Professor Kenneth Crozier
Shanghai Jiao Tong University supervisor:
PAssociate Professor Yaping Dan
First published on 29 August 2022.
Share this article
Other joint PhD projects
-
Long-term behaviour of offshore pile foundations under cyclic loading
A research project focused on advancing the understanding of the behaviour of monopile foundations subjected to cyclic loading.
-
Monitoring the absence of local malaria transmissions in Yunnan
A research project examining the use of serological markers to monitor malaria elimination in Yunnan.
-
Site and landscape scale drivers of biodiversity related to human health and wellbeing in Melbourne and Shanghai
A research project developing evidence-based recommendations for urban greenspace management, design and planning to support stronger human health and wellbeing.
-
How do environmental factors regulate cytoskeleton and cell wall synthesis in rice seedlings?
A research project examining how diurnal changes impact the cytoskeleton and cellulose deposition in rice seedlings through the ERF protein.