Present perspectives of broadband photodetectors based on nanobelts, nanoribbons, nanosheets and the emerging 2D materials

Recent research on photodetectors has been mainly focused on nanostructured materials that form the building blocks of device fabrication. The selection of a suitable material with well-defined properties forms the key issue for the fabrication of photodetectors that cover different ranges of the electromagnetic spectrum. In this review, the latest progress in light detection using nanobelts, nanoribbons, nanosheets and the emerging two-dimensional (2D) materials is reviewed. Particular emphasis is placed on the detection of light by the hybrid structures of the mentioned nanostructured materials in order to enhance the efficiency of the light-matter interaction. The booming research area of black phosphorus based photo-detection is also reviewed. This review provides an overview of basic concepts and new directions towards photodetectors, and highlights potential for the future development of high performance broadband photodetectors.