Review Articles
Topological materials-based photodetectors from the infrared to terahertz range
Zhaowen Bao, Yiming Wang, Kaixuan Zhang, Yingdong Wei, Xiaokai Pan, Zhen Hu, Shiqi Lan, Yichong Zhang, Xiaoyun Wang, Huichuan Fan, Hongfei Wu, Lei Yang, Zhiyuan Zhou, Xin Sun, Yulu Chen, Lin Wang
J. Semicond.  2025, 46(8): 081401  doi: 10.1088/1674-4926/25010010

Infrared and terahertz waves constitute pivotal bands within the electromagnetic spectrum, distinguished by their robust penetration capabilities and non-ionizing nature. These wavebands offer the potential for achieving high-resolution and non-destructive detection methodologies, thereby possessing considerable research significance across diverse domains including communication technologies, biomedical applications, and security screening systems. Two-dimensional materials, owing to their distinctive optoelectronic attributes, have found widespread application in photodetection endeavors. Nonetheless, their efficacy diminishes when tasked with detecting lower photon energies. Furthermore, as the landscape of device integration evolves, two-dimensional materials struggle to align with the stringent demands for device superior performance. Topological materials, with their topologically protected electronic states and non-trivial topological invariants, exhibit quantum anomalous Hall effects and ultra-high carrier mobility, providing a new approach for seeking photosensitive materials for infrared and terahertz photodetectors. This article introduces various types of topological materials and their properties, followed by an explanation of the detection mechanism and performance parameters of photodetectors. Finally, it summarizes the current research status of near-infrared to far-infrared photodetectors and terahertz photodetectors based on topological materials, discussing the challenges faced and future prospects in their development.

Infrared and terahertz waves constitute pivotal bands within the electromagnetic spectrum, distinguished by their robust penetration capabilities and non-ionizing nature. These wavebands offer the potential for achieving high-resolution and non-destructive detection methodologies, thereby possessing considerable research significance across diverse domains including communication technologies, biomedical applications, and security screening systems. Two-dimensional materials, owing to their distinctive optoelectronic attributes, have found widespread application in photodetection endeavors. Nonetheless, their efficacy diminishes when tasked with detecting lower photon energies. Furthermore, as the landscape of device integration evolves, two-dimensional materials struggle to align with the stringent demands for device superior performance. Topological materials, with their topologically protected electronic states and non-trivial topological invariants, exhibit quantum anomalous Hall effects and ultra-high carrier mobility, providing a new approach for seeking photosensitive materials for infrared and terahertz photodetectors. This article introduces various types of topological materials and their properties, followed by an explanation of the detection mechanism and performance parameters of photodetectors. Finally, it summarizes the current research status of near-infrared to far-infrared photodetectors and terahertz photodetectors based on topological materials, discussing the challenges faced and future prospects in their development.
Review on three-dimensional graphene: synthesis and joint photoelectric regulation in photodetectors
Bingkun Wang, Jinqiu Zhang, Huijuan Wu, Fanghao Zhu, Shanshui Lian, Genqiang Cao, Hui Ma, Xurui Hu, Li Zheng, Gang Wang
J. Semicond.  2025, 46(7): 071401  doi: 10.1088/1674-4926/25010015

Graphene has garnered significant attention in photodetection due to its exceptional optical, electrical, mechanical, and thermal properties. However, the practical application of two-dimensional (2D) graphene in optoelectronic fields is limited by its weak light absorption (only 2.3%) and zero bandgap characteristics. Increasing light absorption is a critical scientific challenge for developing high-performance graphene-based photodetectors. Three-dimensional (3D) graphene comprises vertically grown stacked 2D-graphene layers and features a distinctive porous structure. Unlike 2D-graphene, 3D-graphene offers a larger specific surface area, improved electrochemical activity, and high chemical stability, making it a promising material for optoelectronic detection. Importantly, 3D-graphene has an optical microcavity structure that enhances light absorption through interaction with incoming light. This paper systematically reviews and analyzes the current research status and challenges of 3D-graphene-based photodetectors, aiming to explore feasible development paths for these devices and promote their industrial application.

Graphene has garnered significant attention in photodetection due to its exceptional optical, electrical, mechanical, and thermal properties. However, the practical application of two-dimensional (2D) graphene in optoelectronic fields is limited by its weak light absorption (only 2.3%) and zero bandgap characteristics. Increasing light absorption is a critical scientific challenge for developing high-performance graphene-based photodetectors. Three-dimensional (3D) graphene comprises vertically grown stacked 2D-graphene layers and features a distinctive porous structure. Unlike 2D-graphene, 3D-graphene offers a larger specific surface area, improved electrochemical activity, and high chemical stability, making it a promising material for optoelectronic detection. Importantly, 3D-graphene has an optical microcavity structure that enhances light absorption through interaction with incoming light. This paper systematically reviews and analyzes the current research status and challenges of 3D-graphene-based photodetectors, aiming to explore feasible development paths for these devices and promote their industrial application.
Reconfigurable devices based on two-dimensional materials for logic and analog applications
Liutianyi Zhang, Ping-Heng Tan, Jiangbin Wu
J. Semicond.  2025, 46(7): 071701  doi: 10.1088/1674-4926/24100005

In recent years, as the dimensions of the conventional semiconductor technology is approaching the physical limits, while the multifunction circuits are restricted by the relatively fixed characteristics of the traditional metal−oxide−semiconductor field-effect transistors, reconfigurable devices that can realize reconfigurable characteristics and multiple functions at device level have been seen as a promising method to improve integration density and reduce power consumption. Owing to the ultrathin structure, effective control of the electronic characteristics and ability to modulate structural defects, two-dimensional (2D) materials have been widely used to fabricate reconfigurable devices. In this review, we summarize the working principles and related logic applications of reconfigurable devices based on 2D materials, including generating tunable anti-ambipolar responses and demonstrating nonvolatile operations. Furthermore, we discuss the analog signal processing applications of anti-ambipolar transistors and the artificial intelligence hardware implementations based on reconfigurable transistors and memristors, respectively, therefore highlighting the outstanding advantages of reconfigurable devices in footprint, energy consumption and performance. Finally, we discuss the challenges of the 2D materials-based reconfigurable devices.

In recent years, as the dimensions of the conventional semiconductor technology is approaching the physical limits, while the multifunction circuits are restricted by the relatively fixed characteristics of the traditional metal−oxide−semiconductor field-effect transistors, reconfigurable devices that can realize reconfigurable characteristics and multiple functions at device level have been seen as a promising method to improve integration density and reduce power consumption. Owing to the ultrathin structure, effective control of the electronic characteristics and ability to modulate structural defects, two-dimensional (2D) materials have been widely used to fabricate reconfigurable devices. In this review, we summarize the working principles and related logic applications of reconfigurable devices based on 2D materials, including generating tunable anti-ambipolar responses and demonstrating nonvolatile operations. Furthermore, we discuss the analog signal processing applications of anti-ambipolar transistors and the artificial intelligence hardware implementations based on reconfigurable transistors and memristors, respectively, therefore highlighting the outstanding advantages of reconfigurable devices in footprint, energy consumption and performance. Finally, we discuss the challenges of the 2D materials-based reconfigurable devices.
Revolutionizing neuromorphic computing with memristor-based artificial neurons
Yanning Chen, Guobin Zhang, Fang Liu, Bo Wu, Yongfeng Deng, Dawei Gao, Yishu Zhang
J. Semicond.  2025, 46(6): 061301  doi: 10.1088/1674-4926/24110006

As traditional von Neumann architectures face limitations in handling the demands of big data and complex computational tasks, neuromorphic computing has emerged as a promising alternative, inspired by the human brain's neural networks. Volatile memristors, particularly Mott and diffusive memristors, have garnered significant attention for their ability to emulate neuronal dynamics, such as spiking and firing patterns, enabling the development of reconfigurable and adaptive computing systems. Recent advancements include the implementation of leaky integrate-and-fire neurons, Hodgkin−Huxley neurons, optoelectronic neurons, and time-surface neurons, all utilizing volatile memristors to achieve efficient, low-power, and highly integrated neuromorphic systems. This paper reviews the latest progress in volatile memristor-based artificial neurons, highlighting their potential for energy-efficient computing and integration with artificial synapses. We conclude by addressing challenges such as improving memristor reliability and exploring new architectures to advance memristor-based neuromorphic computing.

As traditional von Neumann architectures face limitations in handling the demands of big data and complex computational tasks, neuromorphic computing has emerged as a promising alternative, inspired by the human brain's neural networks. Volatile memristors, particularly Mott and diffusive memristors, have garnered significant attention for their ability to emulate neuronal dynamics, such as spiking and firing patterns, enabling the development of reconfigurable and adaptive computing systems. Recent advancements include the implementation of leaky integrate-and-fire neurons, Hodgkin−Huxley neurons, optoelectronic neurons, and time-surface neurons, all utilizing volatile memristors to achieve efficient, low-power, and highly integrated neuromorphic systems. This paper reviews the latest progress in volatile memristor-based artificial neurons, highlighting their potential for energy-efficient computing and integration with artificial synapses. We conclude by addressing challenges such as improving memristor reliability and exploring new architectures to advance memristor-based neuromorphic computing.
Fatigue of ferroelectric field effect transistor: mechanisms and optimization strategies
Yu Song, Pengfei Jiang, Pan Xu, Xueyang Peng, Qianqian Wei, Qingyi Yan, Wei Wei, Yuan Wang, Xiao Long, Tiancheng Gong, Yang Yang, Eskilla Venkata Ramana, Qing Luo
J. Semicond.  2025, 46(6): 061302  doi: 10.1088/1674-4926/24100010

The novel HfO2-based ferroelectric field effect transistor (FeFET) is considered a promising candidate for next-generation nonvolatile memory (NVM). However, a series of reliability issues caused by the fatigue effect hinder its further development. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of the fatigue mechanisms of the device and optimization strategies is essential for its application. The fundamental mechanism of the fatigue effect is attributed to charge trapping and trap generation based on the current studies, and the underlying causes, occurrence locations and specific impacts are analyzed in this review. In particular, the asymmetric trapping/detrapping of electrons and holes, as well as the relationship between the ferroelectric (FE) polarization and charge trapping, are given particular attention. After categorizing and summarizing the current progress, we propose a series of optimization strategies derived based on the fatigue mechanisms.

The novel HfO2-based ferroelectric field effect transistor (FeFET) is considered a promising candidate for next-generation nonvolatile memory (NVM). However, a series of reliability issues caused by the fatigue effect hinder its further development. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of the fatigue mechanisms of the device and optimization strategies is essential for its application. The fundamental mechanism of the fatigue effect is attributed to charge trapping and trap generation based on the current studies, and the underlying causes, occurrence locations and specific impacts are analyzed in this review. In particular, the asymmetric trapping/detrapping of electrons and holes, as well as the relationship between the ferroelectric (FE) polarization and charge trapping, are given particular attention. After categorizing and summarizing the current progress, we propose a series of optimization strategies derived based on the fatigue mechanisms.
Recent development of flexible perovskite solar cells and its potential applications to aerospace
Shaoqi Bian, Guangshu Xu, Shufang Zhang, Qi Jiang, Xiaoguang Ma, Jingbi You, Xinbo Chu
J. Semicond.  2025, 46(5): 051801  doi: 10.1088/1674-4926/24090031

Due to advantages of high power-conversion efficiency (PCE), large power-to-weight ratio (PWR), low cost and solution processibility, flexible perovskite solar cells (f-PSCs) have attracted extensive attention in recent years. The PCE of f-PSCs has developed rapidly to over 25%, showing great application prospects in aerospace and wearable electronic devices. This review systematically sorts device structures and compositions of f-PSCs, summarizes various methods to improve its efficiency and stability recent years. In addition, the applications and potentials of f-PSCs in space vehicle and aircraft was discussed. At last, we prospect the key scientific and technological issues that need to be addressed for f-PSCs at current stage.

Due to advantages of high power-conversion efficiency (PCE), large power-to-weight ratio (PWR), low cost and solution processibility, flexible perovskite solar cells (f-PSCs) have attracted extensive attention in recent years. The PCE of f-PSCs has developed rapidly to over 25%, showing great application prospects in aerospace and wearable electronic devices. This review systematically sorts device structures and compositions of f-PSCs, summarizes various methods to improve its efficiency and stability recent years. In addition, the applications and potentials of f-PSCs in space vehicle and aircraft was discussed. At last, we prospect the key scientific and technological issues that need to be addressed for f-PSCs at current stage.
The evolution of integrated perovskite-organic solar cells: from early challenges to cutting-edge material innovations
Zia Ur Rehman, Francesco Lamberti, Zhubing He
J. Semicond.  2025, 46(5): 051802  doi: 10.1088/1674-4926/24100034

Integrated perovskite-organic solar cells (IPOSCs) offer a promising hybrid approach that combines the advantages of perovskite and organic solar cells, enabling efficient photon absorption across a broad spectrum with a simplified architecture. However, challenges such as limited charge mobility in organic bulk heterojunction (BHJ) layers, and energy-level mismatch at the perovskite/BHJ interface still sustain. Recent advancements in non-fullerene acceptors (NFAs), interfacial engineering, and emerging materials have improved charge transfer/transport, and overall power conversion efficiency (PCE) of IPOSCs. This review explores key developments in IPOSCs, focusing on low-bandgap materials for near-infrared absorption, energy alignment optimization, and strategies to enhance photocurrent density and device performance. Future innovations in material selection and device architecture will be crucial for further improving the efficiency of IPOSCs, bringing them closer to practical application in next-generation photovoltaic technologies.

Integrated perovskite-organic solar cells (IPOSCs) offer a promising hybrid approach that combines the advantages of perovskite and organic solar cells, enabling efficient photon absorption across a broad spectrum with a simplified architecture. However, challenges such as limited charge mobility in organic bulk heterojunction (BHJ) layers, and energy-level mismatch at the perovskite/BHJ interface still sustain. Recent advancements in non-fullerene acceptors (NFAs), interfacial engineering, and emerging materials have improved charge transfer/transport, and overall power conversion efficiency (PCE) of IPOSCs. This review explores key developments in IPOSCs, focusing on low-bandgap materials for near-infrared absorption, energy alignment optimization, and strategies to enhance photocurrent density and device performance. Future innovations in material selection and device architecture will be crucial for further improving the efficiency of IPOSCs, bringing them closer to practical application in next-generation photovoltaic technologies.
Magnetron sputtering NiOx for perovskite solar cells
Xiangyi Shen, Xinwu Ke, Yingdong Xia, Qingxun Guo, Yonghua Chen
J. Semicond.  2025, 46(5): 051803  doi: 10.1088/1674-4926/24100032

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have become a hot topic in the field of renewable energy due to their excellent power conversion efficiency and potential for low-cost manufacturing. The hole transport layer (HTL), as a key component of PSCs, plays a crucial role in the cell's overall performance. Magnetron sputtering NiOx has attracted widespread attention due to its high carrier mobility, excellent stability, and suitability for large-scale production. Herein, an insightful summary of the recent progress of magnetron sputtering NiOx as the HTL of PSCs is presented to promote its further development. This review summarized the basic properties of magnetron sputtering NiOx thin film, the key parameters affecting the optoelectronic properties of NiOx thin films during the magnetron-sputtering process, and the performance of the corresponding PSCs. Special attention was paid to the interfacial issues between NiOx and perovskites, and the modification strategies were systematically summarized. Finally, the challenges of sputtering NiOx technology and the possible development opportunities were concluded and discussed.

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have become a hot topic in the field of renewable energy due to their excellent power conversion efficiency and potential for low-cost manufacturing. The hole transport layer (HTL), as a key component of PSCs, plays a crucial role in the cell's overall performance. Magnetron sputtering NiOx has attracted widespread attention due to its high carrier mobility, excellent stability, and suitability for large-scale production. Herein, an insightful summary of the recent progress of magnetron sputtering NiOx as the HTL of PSCs is presented to promote its further development. This review summarized the basic properties of magnetron sputtering NiOx thin film, the key parameters affecting the optoelectronic properties of NiOx thin films during the magnetron-sputtering process, and the performance of the corresponding PSCs. Special attention was paid to the interfacial issues between NiOx and perovskites, and the modification strategies were systematically summarized. Finally, the challenges of sputtering NiOx technology and the possible development opportunities were concluded and discussed.
Advances in multi-phase FAPbI3 perovskite: another perspective on photo-inactive δ-phase
Junyu Li, Songwei Zhang, Mohd Nazim Mohtar, Nattha Jindapetch, Istvan Csarnovics, Mehmet Ertugrul, Zhiwei Zhao, Jing Chen, Wei Lei, Xiaobao Xu
J. Semicond.  2025, 46(5): 051804  doi: 10.1088/1674-4926/24100024

Halide perovskites have attracted great interest as active layers in optoelectronic devices. Among perovskites with diverse compositions, α-FAPbI3 is of utmost importance with great optoelectronic properties and a decent bandgap of 1.48 eV. However, the α-phase suffers an irreversible transition to the photo-inactive δ-phase, whereas the δ-phase is usually regarded as useless phase with poor optoelectronic properties. Therefore, it is commonly accepted that the thermodynamic stable δ-FAPbI3 greatly limits the application of FAPbI3. Every coin has two sides, although the δ-phase is difficult to apply as photoelectrical active layers, it is possible to combine δ-FAPbI3 with α-FAPbI3 to realize functional applications. Firstly, this review analyzes the cause of the contrasting properties between α- and δ-FAPbI3, where the stronger electron−phonon coupling in 1D hexagonal δ-FAPbI3 restricts its internal carrier and phonon transport. Secondly, the factors affecting the phase transitions and strategies to control phase transition between α- and δ-FAPbI3 are presented. Finally, some functional applications of δ-FAPbI3 in combination with α-FAPbI3 are given according to previous reports. By and large, we hope to introduce δ-FAPbI3 from another perspective and give some insights into its unique properties, hopefully providing new strategies for the subsequent advances to FAPbI3.

Halide perovskites have attracted great interest as active layers in optoelectronic devices. Among perovskites with diverse compositions, α-FAPbI3 is of utmost importance with great optoelectronic properties and a decent bandgap of 1.48 eV. However, the α-phase suffers an irreversible transition to the photo-inactive δ-phase, whereas the δ-phase is usually regarded as useless phase with poor optoelectronic properties. Therefore, it is commonly accepted that the thermodynamic stable δ-FAPbI3 greatly limits the application of FAPbI3. Every coin has two sides, although the δ-phase is difficult to apply as photoelectrical active layers, it is possible to combine δ-FAPbI3 with α-FAPbI3 to realize functional applications. Firstly, this review analyzes the cause of the contrasting properties between α- and δ-FAPbI3, where the stronger electron−phonon coupling in 1D hexagonal δ-FAPbI3 restricts its internal carrier and phonon transport. Secondly, the factors affecting the phase transitions and strategies to control phase transition between α- and δ-FAPbI3 are presented. Finally, some functional applications of δ-FAPbI3 in combination with α-FAPbI3 are given according to previous reports. By and large, we hope to introduce δ-FAPbI3 from another perspective and give some insights into its unique properties, hopefully providing new strategies for the subsequent advances to FAPbI3.
Advances in perovskite lasers
Zhicheng Guan, Hengyu Zhang, Guang Yang
J. Semicond.  2025, 46(4): 041401  doi: 10.1088/1674-4926/24100029

Perovskite materials have emerged as promising candidates for various optoelectronic applications owing to their remarkable optoelectronic properties and easy solution processing. Metal halide perovskites, as direct-bandgap semiconductors, show an excellent class of optical gain media, which makes them applicable to the development of low-threshold or even thresholdless lasers. This mini review explores recent advances in perovskite-based laser technology, which have led to chiral single-mode microlasers, low-threshold, external-cavity-free lasing devices at room temperature, and other innovative device architectures. Including self-assembled CsPbBr3 microwires that enable edge lasing. Realized continuous-wave (CW) pumped lasing by perovskite material pushes the research of electrically driven perovskite lasers. The capacity to regulate charge transport in halide perovskites further enhances their applicability in optoelectronic systems. The ongoing integration of perovskite materials with advanced photonic structures holds excellent potential for future innovations in laser technology and photovoltaics. We also highlight the transformative potential of perovskite materials in advancing the next generation of efficient and integrated optoelectronic devices.

Perovskite materials have emerged as promising candidates for various optoelectronic applications owing to their remarkable optoelectronic properties and easy solution processing. Metal halide perovskites, as direct-bandgap semiconductors, show an excellent class of optical gain media, which makes them applicable to the development of low-threshold or even thresholdless lasers. This mini review explores recent advances in perovskite-based laser technology, which have led to chiral single-mode microlasers, low-threshold, external-cavity-free lasing devices at room temperature, and other innovative device architectures. Including self-assembled CsPbBr3 microwires that enable edge lasing. Realized continuous-wave (CW) pumped lasing by perovskite material pushes the research of electrically driven perovskite lasers. The capacity to regulate charge transport in halide perovskites further enhances their applicability in optoelectronic systems. The ongoing integration of perovskite materials with advanced photonic structures holds excellent potential for future innovations in laser technology and photovoltaics. We also highlight the transformative potential of perovskite materials in advancing the next generation of efficient and integrated optoelectronic devices.
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