Advances in Pyro‐Phototronics: Materials, Emerging Applications and Future Prospects

ABSTRACT The pyro‐phototronic effect, a burgeoning field of research that combines the pyroelectric and photovoltaic effects, has garnered significant attention due to its potential applications, primarily in the fields of energy harvesting, biomedical sciences, and optoelectronics. This review provides a comprehensive overview of not only the fundamental concepts but also a critical analysis of the recent advancements, mechanisms, and emerging applications of pyro‐phototronics. From a materials perspective, it has been observed that materials such as ZnO, SnS, CdS, BaTiO _3, and Ag ₂ Se are primarily used for pyro‐phototronic applications. In the case of optoelectronic devices, the pyro‐phototronic effect facilitates the attainment of ultrafast response time. Additionally, pyro‐phototronic devices also demonstrate enhanced photoresponsivity and specific detectivity for light detection applications, compared to the sole photovoltaic performance. To achieve such notable results, researchers fabricate various types of junctions, such as p‐n heterojunctions, Schottky contacts, tri‐layer junctions, and isotype junctions, using pyroelectric materials to facilitate charge carrier generation and transport. The experimental results obtained from these devices are verified by performing simulations using different computational software programs, which are discussed in this review. Such progressive investigations in pyro‐phototronic research will provide new ways to develop faster and more efficient working devices useful for innumerable applications.