Room-temperature broadband THz detection at zero bias in layered WSe2

Abstract

The promising applications of terahertz (THz) technology in medicine, security, and space have created a demand for further advancements in this domain. In this regard, transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) can prove to be excellent materials for the efficient detection of these long waves due to their exotic properties, such as tunable bandgap, high carrier mobility, etc. Despite their potential, the exploration of TMDs for THz detection has remained elusive. In this work, we demonstrate a THz detector using TMD WSe2, utilizing mechanically exfoliated flakes integrated with a log-periodic antenna. The fabricated device shows a peak responsivity of ∼68 mA/W at zero bias, which indicates its energy efficiency and makes it suitable for low-power applications. Moreover, the device operates at room temperature, avoiding the need for cryogenic cooling, and covers a wide detection range from 0.1 to 1.2 THz. These results highlight the potential of TMDs for THz applications.