Hybrid nanostructures for mid-infrared to near-infrared detection

We will present our advance in the utilization of a non-lithographic approach for formation of periodic nanosized arrays and formation of hybrid structures suitable for light detection. We explore a self-organization process for formation of periodical nanopores in anodized aluminum oxide, the transfer of this pattern, and the subsequent growth within the pores. This approach was successfully demonstrated for a system having carbon nanotubes as kernel. The carbon nanotubes by themselves are very attractive for detector applications. It is theoretically predicted and experimentally proven that their band gap is adjustable in broad spectral range, their charge carrier mobility is high, and their thermal and mechanical properties are unmatched by other materials. The nanotemplate we use for growth of the nanotubes allows their controlled placement in a regular array, without restriction of the curvature of the surface to be covered. There are no principal limitations for scaling of the process. The third element of our approach is the integration with silicon which provides the compatibility with the well elaborated silicon technology. We will demonstrate the suitability of these structures for light detection.