A Power Efficient, Ultra Low Noise Amplification Mechanism in Semiconductor
Abstract
The proposed research explores the fundamental physics and applications of our recent discovery of a heat-assisted photocurrent effect (HAPC) found in silicon, and likely present in many other semiconductors as well. The effect can amplify the electric signals at a bias level an order of magnitude lower than impact ionization, and promises high gain and extremely low noise. We named the effect Cascaded Exciton Ionization (CEI), hypothesizing that the mechanism originates from strong interactions between carriers, excitons, and phonons. In sharp contrast with most exciton based devices that display their unique characteristics under low temperature, the heat-assisted photocurrent effect (HAPC) becomes more effective at and above room temperature, making it highly attractive to real device applications. The discovery could have tremendous impact on both basic science and applications, and we propose a basic research program with the following objectives: (a) develop a rigorous explanation of the underlying physics of this mechanism; (b) develop methods to realize the mechanism in semiconductors; (c) demonstrate how the effect can impact device performance, especially optical sensing and imaging, of interests to defense and commercial applications.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Aug 12, 2016
- Source ID
- N000141512211
Entities
People
- Yu-Hwa Lo
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy
- University of California, San Diego