Integrated bolometric photodetectors based on transparent conductive oxides from near- to mid-infrared wavelengths

TL;DR

This paper introduces a CMOS-compatible, waveguide-integrated bolometric photodetector using transparent conductive oxides, capable of operating from near- to mid-infrared wavelengths with high responsivity and easy integration.

Contribution

It presents a novel TCO-based bolometer platform that operates across NIR to MIR wavelengths, enabling integrated on-chip photodetectors with high responsivity and CMOS compatibility.

Findings

Achieves responsivity over 10 A/W with low optical power

Operates effectively across NIR to MIR wavelengths

Potential for further performance improvements with doping adjustments

Abstract

On-chip photodetectors are essential components in optical communications as they convert light into an electrical signal. Photobolometers are type of photodetector that functions through a resistance change caused by electronic temperature fluctuations upon light absorption. They are widely used in the broad wavelength range from UV to MIR and can operate on a wide material platform. In this work, I introduce a novel waveguide-integrated bolometer that operates in a wide wavelength range from NIR to MIR on the standard material platform with the transparent conductive oxides (TCOs) as the active material. This material platform enables the construction of both modulators and photodetectors using the same material, which is fully CMOS compatible and easily integrated with passive on-chip components. The photobolometers proposed here consist of a thin TCO layer placed inside the rib photonic waveguide to enhance light absorption and then heat the electrons in the TCO to temperatures above 1000 K. This rise in electron temperature leads to decreasing electron mobility and consequential electrical resistance change. In consequence, a responsivity exceeding 10 A/W can be attained with a mere few microwatts of optical input power. Calculations suggest that further improvements can be expected with lower doping of the TCO, thus opening new doors in on-chip photodetectors.