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KAIST's Room-Temperature Mid-Infrared Photodetector Sets Benchmark for Sensitivity and Scalability

The germanium-on-insulator device achieves stable operation without cooling, enabling real-time CO₂ detection and broad applications in environmental, medical, and industrial fields.

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Overview

  • KAIST researchers have developed a groundbreaking mid-infrared photodetector that operates efficiently at room temperature, eliminating the need for bulky cooling systems.
  • The device leverages the bolometric effect for broad-spectrum detection and integrates germanium onto a silicon platform using CMOS-compatible processes, enabling mass production.
  • Performance benchmarks confirm the photodetector achieves the highest sensitivity among room-temperature bolometric devices worldwide.
  • Real-time carbon dioxide detection has been demonstrated, showcasing the sensor's potential in environmental monitoring and hazardous gas analysis.
  • This innovation is expected to drive advancements in diverse fields, including medical diagnostics, industrial automation, national security, and smart device integration.