Fully degradable, transparent, and flexible photodetectors using ZnO nanowires and PEDOT:PSS based nanofibres

Transparent light detection devices are attractive for emerging see-through applications such as augmented reality, smart windows and optical communications using light fidelity (Li-Fi). Herein, we present flexible and transparent photodetectors (PDs) using conductive poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene): polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS): Ag nanowires (NWs) based nanofibres and zinc oxide (ZnO) NWs on a transparent and degradable cellulose acetate (CA) substrate. The electrospun (PEDOT:PSS): Ag NW-based nanofibres exhibit a sheet resistance of 11 Omega/sq and optical transmittance of 79% (at 550 nm of wavelength). The PDs comprise of ZnO NWs, as photosensitive materials, bridging the electrode based on conductive nanofibres on CA substrate. The developed PDs exhibit high responsivity (1.10 x106 A/W) and show excellent stability under dynamic exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, and on both flat and curved surfaces. The eco-friendly PDs present here can degrade naturally at the end of life - thus offering an electronic waste-free solution for transparent electrodes and flexible optoelectronics applications.