Summary
UCLA researchers have developed scalable Van der Waals superlattice materials designed as absorbers and emitters with tunable optical/electronic properties, enabling better control over thermal radiation or photonic emission across a range of wavelengths.
Background
Existing absorber and emitter materials for photonic and thermal applications often rely on fixed-bandgap semiconductors or bulky heterostructures, limiting tunability, manufacturability, and integration. High-performance devices (e.g. thermophotovoltaics, infrared emitters, sensors) generally face trade-offs between efficiency, spectral coverage, and material complexity. There is a need for materials that offer both spectral flexibility and scalable fabrication while maintaining strong absorption/emission behavior.
Innovation
This invention introduces superlattices composed of stacked Van der Waals layers (2D or layered semiconductors), constructed so that the band structure and absorption/emission characteristics can be engineered by layer choice, thickness, and stacking order. These superlattices are scalable (amenable to large-area fabrication), allowing tunable absorption/emission bands for desired wavelength ranges, enabling more efficient thermal or photonic device components.
Advantages
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Tunable optical/thermal absorption and emission properties by engineering layer composition and stacking.
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Potential for high performance in infrared or visible spectral ranges.
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Scalability: designed for large-area manufacture with Van der Waals materials.
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Integration potential into photonic/thermal devices: emitters, sensors, photovoltaics, thermophotovoltaics.
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Likely lower weight and thinner form factors compared to conventional heterostructures.
Potential Applications
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Infrared/emitter devices (e.g. for sensors, night vision, thermal imaging).
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Thermophotovoltaic systems (harvesting waste heat).
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Photonic devices requiring engineered emission or absorption spectra (e.g., selective emitters).
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Energy harvesting or thermal management coatings.
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Developing tunable photonic/optical filters or modulators.
Patent
US 2024/047592 A1 — Scalable Van der Waals Superlattices for Absorbers and Emitters
Priority Date: March 9, 2023; Publication Date: February 8, 2024.
Scalable Van der Waals Superlattices for Absorbers and Emitters (US20240047592A1)