Recent Advancements in Nanomaterials for Near-Infrared to Long-Wave Infrared Photodetectors

Nanomaterials have superior electronic, optical, and mechanical properties making them highly suitable for a range of applications in optoelectronics, biomedical fields, and photonics. Nanomaterials-based IR detectors are rapidly growing due to enhanced sensitivity, wide spectral range, and device miniaturization compared to commercial photodetectors. This review paper focuses on the significant role of nanomaterials in infrared detection, an area critical for enhancing night vision and health monitoring technologies. The latest advancements in IR photodetectors that employ various nanomaterials and their hybrids are discussed. The manuscript covers the operational mechanisms, device designing, performance optimization strategies, and material challenges. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current developments in nanomaterial-based IR photodetectors and to identify key directions for future research and technological advancements.