High‐sensitive and fast MXene/silicon photodetector for single‐pixel X‐ray imaging

Abstract

Abstract The demand for high‐performance X‐ray detectors leads to material innovation for efficient photoelectric conversion and carrier transfer. However, current X‐ray detectors are often susceptible to chemical and irradiation instability, complex fabrication processes, hazardous components, and difficult compatibility. Here, we investigate a two‐dimensional (2D) material with a relatively low atomic number, Ti3C2Tx MXenes, and single crystal silicon for X‐ray detection and single‐pixel imaging (SPI). We fabricate a Ti3C2Tx MXene/Si X‐ray detector demonstrating remarkable optoelectronic performance. This detector exhibits a sensitivity of 1.2 × 107 μC Gyair−1 cm−2, a fast response speed with a rise time of 31 μs, and an incredibly low detection limit of 2.85 nGyair s−1. These superior performances are attributed to the unique charge coupling behavior under X‐ray irradiation via intrinsic polaron formation. The device remains stable even after 50 continuous hours of high‐dose X‐ray irradiation. Our device fabrication process is compatible with silicon‐based semiconductor technology. Our work suggests new directions for eco‐friendly X‐ray detectors and low‐radiation imaging system.

Keywords

• MXene
• single‐pixel imaging
• X‐ray detector