journal article·2026-02

Photomultiplication‐Type Organic Photodetectors: Mechanisms, Integration Toward Next‐Generation Sensing Platforms

Yazhong Wang, Shuaiqi Li, Yijun Huang, Lu Hao, Zhaohong Tan, Johannes Benduhn, Fei Huang

Advanced Functional Materials· Volume 36· Issue 12
Publisher page

Abstract

Abstract Photomultiplication‐type organic photodetectors (PM‐OPDs) have garnered considerable attention for their ability to provide high sensitivity and tunable spectral response, positioning them as promising candidates for next‐generation optoelectronic applications. These detectors leverage internal gain mechanisms, enabling external quantum efficiencies (EQE) surpassing the traditional limit of 100%. This review systematically explores the operational principles of PM‐OPDs, focusing on charge carrier dynamics, with an emphasis on trapping mechanisms, and highlights the latest advancements in materials and device architectures. Key areas of exploration include bulk heterojunction traps, interface‐induced carrier trapping, and the role of carrier‐blocking layers in enhancing device performance. Functionalized PM‐OPDs, including narrowband, dual‐band, and dual‐mode, are discussed, emphasizing their innovative designs for spectral selectivity and operational versatility. Moreover, the application potential of PM‐OPDs is explored across various domains, including bio‐sensing, low‐light imaging, optical communication, and miniaturized spectroscopy. Despite their promise, challenges related to noise performance, response speed, operating voltage, and long‐term stability are remaining barriers. The outlook suggests continued advancements in material engineering, device optimization, and integration with flexible platforms. This review serves as a comprehensive guide to the current state of PM‐OPDs and identifies future research directions to address the existing limitations and unlock new opportunities for their application scenarios.
Source: crossref · Quality: baseline

Research context

OpenAlex topics: Gas Sensing Nanomaterials and Sensors · Analytical Chemistry and Sensors · Conducting polymers and applications

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

Affiliations

State Key Laboratory of Luminescent Materials and Devices Guangdong Basic Research Center of Excellence for Energy & Information Polymer Materials Institute of Polymer Optoelectronic Materials and Devices School of Materials Science and Engineering South China University of Technology Guangzhou 510640 P. R. China

Lumidar Technology Co., Ltd Guangzhou 510530 P. R. China

Dresden Integrated Center for Applied Physics and Photonic Materials (IAPP) and Institute of Applied Physics Technische Universität Dresden Nöthnitzer Str. 61 01187 Dresden Germany

Funding

Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities · National Science and Technology Planning Project

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