Metasurface Enhanced Solar Blind Ultraviolet Photodetector

This project will develop plasmonic films that perform the dual functions of optical filtering and electrical conduction for solar-blind ultraviolet radiation (UV) detectors. Two types of plasmonic structures will be investigated, namely nano-hole arrays in an aluminum film atop UV radiation detecting semiconductors. These two similar plasmonic structures support different types of surface plasmons in the UV spectral range, namely localized or non-localized surface plasmons. The films will block visible and infrared light and allow UV light to be transmitted to any UV detecting substrate, and the film will then conduct the photo-generated electrical current. The benefit of a single layer structure that performs both optical filtering and electrical conduction is that it allows for lower cost, more robust, lighter weight solar-blind UV detectors that can be designed to address numerous UV sensing markets and applications. The structures will be designed towards eventual use in the detection of missile plumes, and the large commercial markets of water and food purification systems, and flame sensors. In Phase I, the plasmonic structures will be designed and modeled, fabricated and tested. The project team includes Phoebus Optoelectronics, the National Science Foundation's Center for Metamaterials at the City University of New York, and Raytheon.