Nano-patterning on multilayer MoS2 via block copolymer lithography for highly sensitive and responsive phototransistors

Indirect bandgap of multilayer molybdenum disulfide has been recognized as a major hindrance to high responsivity of MoS2 phototransistors. Here, to overcome this fundamental limitation, we propose a structural engineering of MoS2 via nano-patterning using block copolymer lithography. The fabricated nanoporous MoS2, consisting of periodic hexagonal arrays of hexagon nanoholes, includes abundant edges having a zigzag configuration of atomic columns with molybdenum and sulfur atoms. These exposed zigzag edges are responsible for multiple trap states in the bandgap region, as confirmed by photo-excited charge-collection spectroscopy measurements on multilayer nanoporous MoS2 phototransistors, showing that in-gap states only near the valence band can result in a photogating effect. The effect of nano-patterning is therefore to significantly enhance the responsivity of multilayer nanoporous MoS2 phototransistors, exhibiting an ultra-high photoresponsivity of 622.2 A W-1. Our nano-patterning of MoS2 for photosensing application paves a route to structural engineering of two-dimensional materials for highly sensitive and responsive optoelectronic devices. Thin-film phototransistors based on multilayer MoS2 are of great technological importance, but their photoresponsivity may be hindered by an indirect bandgap. Here, nano-patterning of multilayer MoS2 overcomes this limitation by inducing trap states within the bandgap, resulting in a high photoresponsivity of 622.2 A W-1.

Automated summary

Nano-patterning of multilayer MoS2 overcomes the limitation of indirect bandgap, significantly enhancing photoresponsivity of phototransistors to an ultra-high level of 622.2 A W-1.