▲ (From left) Professor Jae Won Shim (corresponding author), Integrated M.S./Ph.D. student Tae Hyuk Kim (co-first author), and B.S./M.S. student Seunghyun Oh (co-first author), School of Electrical Engineering, Korea University

The research team led by Professor Jae Won Shim from the School of Electrical Engineering at Korea University has developed a groundbreaking ultra-low-noise infrared organic photodetector (OPD) technology, marking a world-first in the field. The team’s innovative contributions led to the simultaneous publication of two papers in the globally renowned journal Advanced Materials.
 

The research was conducted in collaboration with the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Dongguk University, and the Department of Chemistry at Korea University. By dramatically enhancing the low-noise performance of OPDs, the team has opened new avenues for high-sensitivity infrared detection technologies.
 

The first study, jointly conducted with KIST and Dongguk University, introduced a novel charge-blocking layer named 3PAFCN, designed with a wide bandgap. This material achieved efficient energy level alignment at interfaces and blocked reverse charges, resulting in unprecedented noise suppression and a breakthrough in OPD performance. The technology enables single-pixel imaging in multispectral environments, showing excellent clarity even in foggy or low-visibility conditions. This innovation is expected to benefit diverse applications, including medical imaging, autonomous vehicles, and environmental monitoring.
 

The second study, in collaboration with Korea University’s Department of Chemistry, successfully demonstrated detection of infrared wavelengths up to 1500 nm using organic photodetectors. This was achieved through sequential organic chemical doping to create a narrow bandgap, while also overcoming the intrinsic high noise current typically associated with such materials. By precisely controlling doping concentration and systematically analyzing charge tunneling mechanisms, the team achieved extremely low noise currents, bringing the commercial viability of next-generation OPDs one step closer.
 

Both papers were published in Advanced Materials (Impact Factor: 29.4, top 2.5% JCR) in April and May 2025, respectively, and have been recognized for their innovation and practical significance.
 

Professor Shim stated, “This research significantly improves the performance of organic photodetectors, expanding their applicability across various industries. In particular, we expect it to have a major impact on medical diagnostics and autonomous driving technologies.” He added, “Low-power, high-sensitivity sensor technologies will be at the core of the smart device and IoT era.”