Publication # 431

431. K. C. Balram, R. M. Audet, and D. A. B. Miller, "Nanoscale resonant-cavity-enhanced germanium photodetectors with lithographically defined spectral response for improved performance at telecommunications wavelengths," Opt. Express 21, 10228-10233 (2013)
http://www.opticsinfobase.org/oe/abstract.cfm?URI=oe-21-8-10228
(open access)

We demonstrate the use of a subwavelength planar metal-dielectric resonant cavity to enhance the absorption of germanium photodetectors at wavelengths beyond the material’s direct absorption edge, enabling high responsivity across the entire telecommunications C and L bands.  The resonant wavelength of the detectors can be tuned linearly by varying the width of the Ge fin, allowing multiple detectors, each resonant at a different wavelength, to be fabricated in a single-step process. This approach is promising for the development of CMOS-compatible devices suitable for integrated, high-speed, and energy-efficient photodetection at telecommunications wavelengths.

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