Integrated Bolometric Photodetectors Based on Transparent Conductive Oxides from Near- to Mid-Infrared Wavelengths

On-chip photodetectors are essential components in optical communications as they convert light into an electrical signal. Photobolometers are a 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 ultraviolet to mid-infrared (MIR). In this work, a novel waveguide-integrated bolometer that operates in a wide wavelength range from near-infrared to MIR is introduced 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 complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor 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. This rise in electron temperature leads to decreasing electron mobility and consequential electrical resistance change. In consequence, a responsivity exceeding 10 A W-1 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. The proposed photobolometer consists of a thin transparent conductive oxide (TCO) layer placed inside the photonic waveguide to enhance light absorption and then heat the electrons in the TCO. This rise in the electron temperature leads to decreasing electron mobility and consequently electrical resistance. In consequence, a responsivity exceeding 10 A W-1 can be attained with a mere few microwatts of optical power.image (c) 2023 WILEY-VCH GmbH