Performance enhancement of methylammonium tin iodide perovskite photodetectors through device optimization

• Lead-free MASnI 3 photodetector shows broadband visible to NIR response. • Optimized absorber layer (950 nm) improves J SC , V OC , and quantum efficiency. • High responsivity (0.635 A/W) and detectivity (3.38 × 10 11 Jones) at 860 nm. • Eco-friendly materials support low-cost, high-performance device fabrication. Metal halide perovskites have gained significant attention as favourable materials for photodetectors due to their improved optoelectronic characteristics, tunable bandgap, and cost-efficient solution-based synthesis methods. Simulations indicate that enhanced performance is primarily linked to improved charge carrier transport and reduced dark current. These enhancements were achieved by fine-tuning the thickness of the absorber layer, adjusting doping concentrations, and minimizing defect densities. The absorber layer is composed of organo-tin halide perovskite (MASnI 3 ), which exhibits a wide spectral response ranging from visible to near-infrared wavelengths. After optimizing the CH 3 NH 3 SnI 3 layer thickness to 950 nm, key parameters such as a short-circuit current density of 33.78 mA/cm2, high quantum efficiency, and an open-circuit voltage of 0.814 V were observed. The photodetector’s spectral responsivity largely depends upon its light absorption efficiency. The CH 3 NH 3 SnI 3 -based photodetector provides enhanced responsivity values of 0.635 A/W and specific detectivity of 3.38 × 10 11 Jones at a wavelength of 860 nm and a bias voltage of −2V. The SCAPS-1D tool was used for simulations. The proper material selection provides the development of an efficient and environmentally friendly perovskite photodetector.