Shortwave infrared photodetectors using pbs CQD and ge-on-si materials
Innovative shortwave infrared photodetectors utilizing PbS CQD and Ge-on-Si materials for enhanced performance in silicon photonics applications. Offers improved stability and integration potential for future photonic circuits.
Overview
This solution features advanced shortwave infrared photodetectors constructed using PbS colloidal quantum dots (CQD) and Ge-on-Si materials. These photodetectors are designed to enhance performance and stability in applications such as silicon photonics. The improved stability of PbS CQDs, achieved through the replacement of surface ligands with pure inorganic materials, makes these detectors highly suitable for integration into future photonic circuits.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Utilizes PbS CQD and Ge-on-Si materials for superior infrared detection
- Achieves an external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 44% with prolonged performance stability of 625 hours without packaging
- Ge-on-Si photodetectors designed for silicon photonics integration, featuring diffraction-grating coupling and luminescent film enhancements
- Current focus on reducing dark current from ~50,000 nA/cm² to meet performance requirements
Technology readiness level
This technology is currently at TRL 4, indicating that it has been validated in laboratory environments. Ongoing efforts aim to refine and develop the technology further for commercial applications.
About University of Alberta
The University of Alberta is a large, comprehensive public research university in Edmonton with multiple campuses and a strong applied research culture. Industry engages through co-located labs and pilot-scale facilities, as well as established co-op and internship programs that place talent with partners year-round. Integration with Alberta’s province-wide hospital system supports clinical research and accelerates translation. Companies also benefit from proximity to regional industry clusters and collaboration hubs on and near campus for joint R&D and prototyping. Supported by NSERC, CIHR, SSHRC, and Canada Foundation for Innovation funding—plus provincial and industry support—the tech transfer office manages IP, licensing, and startup formation with streamlined sponsored-research agreements.
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