Magnetic Carbon Nanofiber Mats for Prospective Single Photon Avalanche Diode (SPAD) Sensing Applications

Electrospinning enables simple and cost-effective production of magnetic nanofibers by adding nanoparticles to a polymer solution. In order to increase the electrical conductivity of such nanofibers, the carbonization process is crucial. In this study, the chemical and morphological properties of magnetic nanofiber mats prepared from polyacrylonitrile (PAN)/magnetite were investigated. In our previous studies, PAN/magnetite nanofiber mats were carbonized at 500 degrees C, 600 degrees C, and 800 degrees C. Here, PAN/magnetite nanofiber mats were carbonized at 1000 degrees C. The surface morphology of these PAN/magnetite nanofiber mats is not significantly different from nanofiber mats thermally treated at 800 degrees C and have remained relatively flexible at 1000 degrees C, which can be advantageous for various application fields. The addition of nanoparticles increased the average fiber diameter compared to pure PAN nanofiber mats and improved the dimensional stability during thermal processes. The high conductivity, the high magnetization properties, as well as shielding against electromagnetic interference of such carbonized nanofibers can be proposed for use in single photon avalanche diode (SPAD), where these properties are advantageous.

Automated summary

Electrospinning allows for the production of magnetic nanofibers, with the carbonization process being crucial for enhancing electrical conductivity. The addition of nanoparticles can improve the morphological properties and thermal stability of the nanofibers. These carbonized nanofibers exhibit high conductivity, magnetization, and electromagnetic interference shielding properties, making them suitable for applications such as single photon avalanche diodes (SPAD).