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Observation of ultraviolet photothermoelectric bipolar impulse in gallium-based heterostructure nanowires

Author

Listed:
  • Jinjie Zhu

    (Nanjing University)

  • Qing Cai

    (Nanjing University)

  • Pengfei Shao

    (Nanjing University)

  • Shengjie Zhang

    (Nanjing University)

  • Haifan You

    (Nanjing University)

  • Hui Guo

    (Nanjing University)

  • Jin Wang

    (Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications)

  • Junjun Xue

    (Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications)

  • Bin Liu

    (Nanjing University)

  • Hai Lu

    (Nanjing University)

  • Youdou Zheng

    (Nanjing University)

  • Rong Zhang

    (Nanjing University
    Xiamen University
    Tan Kah Kee Innovation Laboratory)

  • Dunjun Chen

    (Nanjing University)

Abstract

The incorporation of thermal dynamics alongside conventional optoelectronic principles holds immense promise for advancing technology. Here, we introduce a GaON/GaN heterostructure-nanowire ultraviolet electrochemical cell of observing a photothermoelectric bipolar impulse characteristic. By leveraging the distinct thermoelectric properties of GaON/GaN, rapid generation of hot carriers establishes bidirectional instantaneous gradients in concentration and temperature within the nanoscale heterostructure via light on/off modulation. The thermoelectromotive force induced by these gradients, combined with the type-II heterojunction band structure, facilitates carrier transport, resulting in transient bidirectional photothermal currents. The device achieves exceptional responsivity (17.1 mA/W) and remarkably fast speed (8.8 ms) at 0 V, surpassing existing semiconductor electrochemical cells. This bipolar ultraviolet impulse detection mode harnesses light-induced heat for electricity generation, enabling innovative bidirectional encryption communication capabilities. Anticipated applications encompass future sensing, switchable light imaging, and energy conversion systems, thereby laying a foundation for diverse optoelectronic technological advancements.

Suggested Citation

  • Jinjie Zhu & Qing Cai & Pengfei Shao & Shengjie Zhang & Haifan You & Hui Guo & Jin Wang & Junjun Xue & Bin Liu & Hai Lu & Youdou Zheng & Rong Zhang & Dunjun Chen, 2025. "Observation of ultraviolet photothermoelectric bipolar impulse in gallium-based heterostructure nanowires," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 16(1), pages 1-10, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:16:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-025-56617-z
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-56617-z
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    References listed on IDEAS

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