Hybrid Inorganic/Organic Infrared Imaging Upconversion Devices

Abstract

Upconversion of near-infrared to visible light in a single, hybrid organic/inorganic device is explored in the following work. The components of the photodetector and organic light emitting diode, and the challenge of combining them into a functional system without compromising either significantly, are discussed in theory, the work of previous researchers, and in results presented here for the first time. The large number of interfaces and the large diversity of conceivable parts, and the variety of treatments which may make components more or less compatible, opens up a large territory of upconverter devices which this thesis addresses in a straightforward manner, with minimally-complex (first-generation) devices. Complications in the assembly of high-efficiency and high-fidelity upconversion devices are described quantitatively from the experimental results, and performance issues are sourced to particular regions and fabrication steps to recommend future iterations of research for improved devices.