Photodetector for visible light based on Fe(phen)2(SCN)2 molecule

Abstract

 This paper describes a unique method that uses Iron (phen) molecule [phen: 1,10-phenanthroline] placed on a glass substrate to create a photodetector (PD) that is sensitive to visible light as a heterostructure device. The structural, morphological, and optical properties of the samples were investigated using techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive X-ray spectra (EDX), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and UV-Vis spectrophotometry. The photosensitivity of the Iron (phen) /glass PD was evaluated at different bias voltages (5, 10, 15, and 20 V) at wavelength of 510 nm. The photosensitivity values were found to be 58.45, 76.82, 84.9, and 87.83, indicating the PD's ability to generate a measurable electrical response to light stimuli in the visible range. Furthermore, the response and recovery times of the Iron (phen)  PD were assessed when exposed to pulsed visible light at a wavelength of 510 nm and bias voltages of 5, 10, 15 and 20 V. The results indicated favorable response and recovery times, suggesting the PD's capability to quickly detect and recover from changes in light intensity. At a bias voltage of 20 V and under illumination with visible light at 510 nm, the Iron (phen) PD demonstrated a maximum current gain of 9.22 and a quantum efficiency (ƞ) of 28.17. These values indicate the PD's ability to amplify the generated electrical current and efficiently convert incident photons into detectable electrical signals. Overall, the fabricated Iron (phen) glass PD exhibited promising photosensitivity, response and recovery times, current gain, and quantum efficiency when exposed to visible light. The findings suggest the potential application of Iron (phen) as a material for visible light photodetection.