High-performance photoelectrochemical (PEC) type self-powered ultraviolet photodetectors (PDs) based on three-dimensional ZnO film/carbon fiber paper

Novel photoelectrochemical ultraviolet detection technologies based on semiconductor/electrolyte heterojunctions have attracted significant attention due to their cost-effective fabrication and self-powered characteristic. In this study, ZnO films were deposited on three-dimensional carbon fiber paper (3D CFP) using a one-step sputtering method, resulting in the preparation of 3D ZnO/CFP composites as photoanodes for photoelectrochemical (PEC) type photodetectors (PDs). The fabricated device demonstrates outstanding photoelectrochemical performance, showcasing a remarkable responsivity of approximately 31.76 mA/W, a detectivity of 3.06 × 1012 jones, and a rapid photoresponse time of 76.51/48.51 ms. Furthermore, the device exhibits exceptional photoresponse stability during cycling tests. The unique structure of 3D CFP, composed of intertwined carbon fiber in three dimensions, offers an enlarged specific surface area and efficient carrier transport pathways for the photoanode in self-powered PEC-PDs. This characteristic facilitates effective electrolyte diffusion throughout the entire film, as well as efficient transport of photo-generated charge carriers, thereby significantly enhancing the overall performance of the PEC-PDs. This study affirms the effectiveness of the synergistic interaction between 3D CFP and ZnO film for advanced UV photodetectors, demonstrating both mass production viability and promise for the future of photoelectrochemical detection technology.