IIT Guwahati innovates cost-effective photodetector in healthcare

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaOctober 22, 2024

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati have developed a novel, cost-effective photodetector using advanced materials and techniques, focusing on formamidinium perovskite and plasmonic nanoparticles. This breakthrough has resulted in a photodetector with significantly enhanced light detection capabilities. The innovation is expected to have widespread applications across various sectors, including healthcare (for medical imaging devices), environmental monitoring (for sensors), and solar energy (improving efficiency in light-harvesting systems).

A photodetector is a crucial device that senses light and converts it into electrical signals, forming the foundation for numerous technologies such as cameras, communication systems, and other optical devices. The researchers’ use of formamidinium perovskite, known for its excellent light-absorbing properties, and plasmonic nanoparticles, which enhance light-matter interaction, contributes to the photodetector’s improved performance.

The research, published in the prestigious ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces journal, was co-authored by Prof. PK Giri, Department of Physics, and his research scholars, Debabrata Sahu, Subhankar Debnath, and Sirsendu Ghosal, at IIT Guwahati.

Perovskites, known for their exceptional light-absorbing properties, are ideal for photodetectors, solar cells, and other light-harvesting technologies. The formamidinium-based perovskite used in this study is recognized for its better stability and high light conversion efficiency.

However, enhancing its light absorption and electrical performance while keeping production costs low has been a challenge.

To address this, the IIT Guwahati research team integrated an array of 2D printed plasmonic nanoparticles—tiny particles of noble metals like silver (Ag)—into their perovskite photodetector. These Ag nanoparticles array help focus light onto the perovskite layer through a process called localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR), greatly boosting light absorption and efficient photodetection.

Regarding the research, Prof. PK Giri said, “Our goal was to create a photodetector that is not only highly efficient but also affordable and durable for real-world applications. By incorporating 2D printed plasmonic nanoparticles into the design, we have significantly enhanced the device’s performance while ensuring scalability and cost-effectiveness.”

The team used a specialized microprinting technique to precisely arrange the silver nanoparticles, improving the device’s sensitivity while making the manufacturing process scalable and economical. The photodetector remains stable under normal environmental conditions, ensuring durability for practical applications across various industries.

This photodetector innovation could transform industries by improving medical imaging, enhancing environmental monitoring accuracy, and boosting solar energy efficiency—all through cost-effective production. It paves the way for wider real-world applications and addresses key global challenges.