Bilayer graphene has many unique optoelectronic properties , including a
tuneable band gap, that make it possible to develop new and more efficient
optical and nanoelectronic devices. We have developed a Monte Carlo simulation
for a single photon counting photodetector incorporating bilayer graphene. Our
results show that, conceptually it would be feasible to manufacture a single
photon counting photodetector (with colour sensitivity) from bilayer graphene
for use across both optical and infrared wavelengths. Our concept exploits the
high carrier mobility and tuneable band gap associated with a bilayer graphene
approach. This allows for low noise operation over a range of cryogenic
temperatures, thereby reducing the cost of cryogens with a trade off between
resolution and operating temperature. The results from this theoretical study
now enable us to progress onto the manufacture of prototype photon counters at
optical and IR wavelengths that may have the potential to be groundbreaking in
some scientific research applications.Comment: Conference Proceeding in Graphene-Based Technologies, 201