Nonlinear photocurrent in quantum materials for broadband photodetection

TL;DR

This review discusses recent advances in nonlinear photocurrent phenomena in topological quantum materials, highlighting their potential for broadband, high-frequency photodetection without traditional semiconductor diodes.

Contribution

It summarizes novel photocurrent mechanisms in various quantum materials and their application in broadband photodetection, emphasizing the elimination of p-n junctions and bias voltages.

Findings

Quantum materials enable broadband high-frequency rectification.

Nonlinear photocurrents can operate without bias voltage.

Materials show high responsivity and detectivity.

Abstract

Unlocking the vast potential of optical sensing technology has long been hindered by the challenges of achieving fast, sensitive, and broadband photodetection at ambient temperatures. In this review, we summarize recent progress in the study of nonlinear photocurrent in topological quantum materials, and its application in broadband photodetection without the use of p-n junction based semiconductor diodes. The intrinsic quadratic transverse current-input voltage relation is used to rectify the alternating electric field from incident radio, terahertz or infrared waves into a direct current, without a bias voltage and at zero magnetic field. We review novel photocurrents in several material systems, including topological Weyl semimetals, chiral crystals, ferroelectric materials, and low dimensional topological insulators. These quantum materials hold tremendous promise for broadband high-frequency rectification and photodetection, featuring substantial responsivity and detectivity.