11 January 2024 | Arshiya Ansari, Shahzad Ahmed, Moin Ali Siddiqui, Afzal Khan, Amitava Banerjee, Devendra Singh Negi, and Pranay Ranjan
This study presents a simple method to fabricate hybrid titanium dioxide (TiO₂) nanoparticles and poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) embedded with lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiTFSI) and carbon quantum dots (CQDs) on a p-type silicon (p-Si) substrate using drop-casting. Structural analysis was performed using Raman spectroscopy. A UV radiation source with a wavelength of 365 nm and intensity of 200 mW cm⁻² was used to observe changes in conductivity under illuminated and non-illuminated conditions. The device TiO₂/PEDOT:PSS/LiTFSI showed a responsivity of 25.3% with response/recovery times of 467/577 seconds. The device with CQDs:TiO₂/PEDOT:PSS/LiTFSI had a responsivity of 22.2% with response/recovery times of 300/393 seconds. The design methodology proposed in this study holds promise for the fabrication of sensors capable of detecting harmful UV rays, which are known to contribute to premature aging, sunburn, cataracts, and skin cancer.
UV photodetectors are highly adaptable devices used in various fields, including environmental monitoring and scientific research. UV radiation detection is crucial for assessing its impact on the environment and human health. Monitoring UV levels allows individuals to take preventive measures, such as using sunscreen and protective clothing, to mitigate the risks of sunburn, premature skin aging, and ocular damage. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation is a significant factor in the development of skin cancer. UV sensors can be fabricated using various materials, including silicon carbide, gallium nitride, titanium dioxide, and zinc oxide. These materials are chosen based on their susceptibility to UV light and their ability to withstand UV radiation. The study also highlights the advantages of polymer-based UV photodetectors, which are cost-effective, easy to process, and compatible with various substrates. Incorporating lithium salts and quantum dots as dopants can enhance the electrical properties and UV sensitivity of the sensing material. The proposed UV sensor is based on conductivity, and the approach is simple, cost-effective, and does not require complex equipment or trained personnel. A schematic of the device is shown in Fig. 1.This study presents a simple method to fabricate hybrid titanium dioxide (TiO₂) nanoparticles and poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) embedded with lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiTFSI) and carbon quantum dots (CQDs) on a p-type silicon (p-Si) substrate using drop-casting. Structural analysis was performed using Raman spectroscopy. A UV radiation source with a wavelength of 365 nm and intensity of 200 mW cm⁻² was used to observe changes in conductivity under illuminated and non-illuminated conditions. The device TiO₂/PEDOT:PSS/LiTFSI showed a responsivity of 25.3% with response/recovery times of 467/577 seconds. The device with CQDs:TiO₂/PEDOT:PSS/LiTFSI had a responsivity of 22.2% with response/recovery times of 300/393 seconds. The design methodology proposed in this study holds promise for the fabrication of sensors capable of detecting harmful UV rays, which are known to contribute to premature aging, sunburn, cataracts, and skin cancer.
UV photodetectors are highly adaptable devices used in various fields, including environmental monitoring and scientific research. UV radiation detection is crucial for assessing its impact on the environment and human health. Monitoring UV levels allows individuals to take preventive measures, such as using sunscreen and protective clothing, to mitigate the risks of sunburn, premature skin aging, and ocular damage. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation is a significant factor in the development of skin cancer. UV sensors can be fabricated using various materials, including silicon carbide, gallium nitride, titanium dioxide, and zinc oxide. These materials are chosen based on their susceptibility to UV light and their ability to withstand UV radiation. The study also highlights the advantages of polymer-based UV photodetectors, which are cost-effective, easy to process, and compatible with various substrates. Incorporating lithium salts and quantum dots as dopants can enhance the electrical properties and UV sensitivity of the sensing material. The proposed UV sensor is based on conductivity, and the approach is simple, cost-effective, and does not require complex equipment or trained personnel. A schematic of the device is shown in Fig. 1.