Ultrabroadband Detection and Self-Powered Functionality in Quasi-One-Dimensional Nb₃Se₁₂I Nanowire Photodetectors for Bionic Vision Applications

The burgeoning fields of the Internet of things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI) have escalated the demands for image sensing technologies, necessitating advancements in sensor efficiency and functionality. Traditional image sensors, structured on von Neumann architectures with discrete processing units, face challenges, such as high power consumption, latency, and escalated hardware costs. In this work, we introduced a unique approach through the development of a quasi-one-dimensional nanowire Nb₃Se₁₂I-based double-ended photosensor. The advanced sensor not only replicated the adaptive behavior of biological vision systems but also effectively managed the decreased sensitivity triggered by intense light stimuli. The integration of the photothermoelectric and bolometric effects allows the device to operate in a self-powered mode, offering broadband detectivity ranging from visible (405 nm) to midwave infrared (4060 nm). Additionally, the quasi-one-dimensional structure enables an angle-dependent response to polarized light with a polarization ratio of 1.83. Our findings suggest that the biomimetic vision adaptive sensor based on Nb₃Se₁₂I could effectively enhance the capabilities of smart optical sensors and machine vision systems.