Solution Synthesis of Large-Scale, High-Sensitivity ZnO/Si Hierarchical Nanoheterostructure Photodetectors

This Communication reports a low-cost solution fabrication of wafer-scale ZnO/Si branched nanowire heterostructures and their high photodetection sensitivity, with an ON/OFF ratio larger than 250 and a peak photoresponsivity of 12.8 mA/W at 900 nm. This reported unique 3D branched nanowire structure offers a generic approach for the integration of new functional materials for photodetection and photovoltaic applications.