Diamond photodetectors for UV laser-based applications

Many laser-based applications require a robust and sensitive deep UV photodetector, properties not offered by existing solid state devices which are based on silicon. Thin film CVD diamond offers a solution to this problem, but careful device design and passivation of defects within the diamond are required before this material can be used to fabricate high performance devices. This paper reviews the optoelectronic properties of diamond films, considers how they may be modified and surveys the current state-of-the-art in diamond photodetector technology.