Efficient OFET-based optical memory and photodetectors using a novel BODIPY dye

Abstract

A new BODIPY-coumarin dye was synthesized, characterized, and utilized as a light-sensitive component in optically programmed OFET-based memory cells and photodetectors. The designed photoswitchable OFETs assembled with both n-type (fullerene C₆₀) and p-type (pentacene) organic semiconductors showed large memory windows (10 V) in combination with fast (2–10 ms) and reversible optoelectrical switching between the programmed states. The BODIPY/C₆₀ junctions demonstrated unprecedentedly high photoconductivity, which enabled the fabrication of photodetector devices showing good responsivity R (14.1 A W⁻¹) and detectivity D (4.3 × 10¹⁰ Jones) under low-intensity light illumination. The obtained results feature the designed BODIPY dye as a prospective material for a broad range of organic electronic and photonic devices.