Fully degradable, transparent, and flexible photodetectors using ZnO nanowires and PEDOT:PSS based nanofibres

Abstract

Transparent light detection devices are attractive for emerging see-through applications such as augmented reality, smart windows and optical communications using light fidelity (Li-Fi). Herein, we present flexible and transparent photodetectors (PDs) using conductive poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene): polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS): Ag nanowires (NWs) based nanofibres and zinc oxide (ZnO) NWs on a transparent and degradable cellulose acetate (CA) substrate. The electrospun (PEDOT:PSS): Ag NW-based nanofibres exhibit a sheet resistance of 11 Ω/sq and optical transmittance of 79% (at 550 nm of wavelength). The PDs comprise of ZnO NWs, as photosensitive materials, bridging the electrode based on conductive nanofibres on CA substrate. The developed PDs exhibit high responsivity (1.10 ×10⁶ A/W) and show excellent stability under dynamic exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, and on both flat and curved surfaces. The eco-friendly PDs present here can degrade naturally at the end of life – thus offering an electronic waste-free solution for transparent electrodes and flexible optoelectronics applications.