Efficient solar-blind ultraviolet detection based on a Sn²⁺ ion-activated fluosilicate glass

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Optoelectronics
• Photonics

Background:

• Spectral conversion technology enhances sensitivity in solar-blind ultraviolet communication (UVC) detection.
• Developing efficient, stable spectral converters with short decay lifetimes for UVC remains a challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To prepare and characterize a novel spectral converter for UVC detection using tin-activated fluosilicate (SFS) glass.
• To evaluate the performance of SFS-based spectral converters integrated with Si-based PIN photodiodes for UVC detection.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of tin-activated fluosilicate (SFS) glass.
• Decoration of Si-based PIN photodiodes with SFS glass.
• Characterization of spectral conversion properties, quantum efficiency, and photodiode performance (responsivity, frequency limit, rise/fall times).

Main Results:

• The SFS glass exhibits a short decay lifetime (5.65 µs) and high quantum efficiency (85%).
• SFS-decorated Si-based PIN photodiodes show strong UVC absorption and efficient spectral shifting.
• Achieved detection performance includes responsivity of 27 µA/mW@278 nm, a frequency limit of 50 KHz, and rise/fall times of 15.14/18.71 µs@10 KHz.

Conclusions:

• Tin-activated fluosilicate glass is a promising material for efficient UVC detection.
• The developed SFS spectral converters offer a scalable and low-cost strategy for advanced UVC detection applications.