Researchers at Georgia State University have found a way for semiconductors to detect a wider range of light than currently possible. An extra light source was added to their device that prepares the semiconductor with energy and when a low energy, long wavelength beam passes over, the extra light source pushes the material to the top creating a detectable reaction.
The team made a device with this new technology that can detect wavelengths up to a minimum of 55 micrometers, while a detector without this modification can only detect wavelengths to about 4 micrometers. The researchers see potential uses in improving solar cells that would have the ability to absorb infrared light in addition to the sun’s visible light.
