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Origami Terahertz Detectors Realized by Inkjet Printing of Carbon Nanotube Inks

Journal Article · · ACS Applied Nano Materials

Terahertz (THz) technology has shown promise for several applications, but limitations in sources and detectors have prevented broader adoption. Existing THz detectors are rigid, planar, and fabricated using complex technology, making it difficult to integrate into systems. Here we demonstrate THz detectors fabricated by inkjet printing on submicrometer thick, ultraflexible substrates. By developing p- and n-type carbon nanotube inks, we achieve optically thick p–n junction and p-type devices, enabling antenna-free pixels for THz imaging. By further designing and folding the printed devices, we realize origami-inspired architectures with improved performance over single devices, achieving a noise-equivalent power of 12 nW/Hz1/2 at room temperature with no voltage bias. Finally, our approach opens avenues for nonplanar, foldable, deployable, insertable, and retractable THz detectors for applications in nondestructive inspection.

Research Organization:
Sandia National Laboratories (SNL-CA), Livermore, CA (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA)
Grant/Contract Number:
AC04-94AL85000; NA0003525
OSTI ID:
1667404
Report Number(s):
SAND--2020-8794J; 690133
Journal Information:
ACS Applied Nano Materials, Journal Name: ACS Applied Nano Materials Journal Issue: 3 Vol. 3; ISSN 2574-0970
Publisher:
American Chemical Society (ACS)Copyright Statement
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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