Researchers at Toyohashi Tech have developed an infrared photodetector that uses the localized surface plasmon (LSP) effects exhibited by gold nanorods to improve the optical response of Schottky photodiodes, says Mitsuo Fukuda, Department of Electrical and Electronic Information.

Typical semiconductor devices include Schottky barrier photodetectors, where a PN junction diode is not necessary. Fukuda and colleagues used the LSP effects to improve the photo detection efficiency into the 1.3 to 1.5 micrometer wavelength range.

This technology shows potential as the basis for the development of high efficiency infrared photodetectors for optical communications systems, says Fukuda.