InGaN as a Substrate for AC Photoelectrochemical Imaging

Sensors (Basel). 2019 Oct 11;19(20):4386. doi: 10.3390/s19204386.

Abstract

AC photoelectrochemical imaging at electrolyte-semiconductor interfaces provides spatially resolved information such as surface potentials, ion concentrations and electrical impedance. In this work, thin films of InGaN/GaN were used successfully for AC photoelectrochemical imaging, and experimentally shown to generate a considerable photocurrent under illumination with a 405 nm modulated diode laser at comparatively high frequencies and low applied DC potentials, making this a promising substrate for bioimaging applications. Linear sweep voltammetry showed negligible dark currents. The imaging capabilities of the sensor substrate were demonstrated with a model system and showed a lateral resolution of 7 microns.

Keywords: InGaN/GaN epilayer; cell imaging; light-activated electrochemistry; light-addressable potentiometric sensor; photoelectrochemistry.