Large area transparent ZnO photodetectors with Au wire network electrodes

Abstract

Transparent electronics as a futuristic technology are fast growing and expanding beyond conventional optoelectronics. Here we report the fabrication of a large area, visibly transparent ultraviolet (UV) photodetector employing a laser deposited ZnO active layer in between branched Au wire networks, with the latter serving as electrodes due to being transparent in UV as well as visible regions. The Au wire networks were prepared using a crack templating method which is not only cost effective but also enables heterostructuring with simple processes. When compared to Ag contact pads, these wire network electrodes seem to enhance photocurrent collection efficiency resulting in high UV sensitivity at low response times. Importantly, the visible light transparency was as high as 80%.