Improved fast photoresponse from Al doped ZnO nanowires network decorated with Au nanoparticles

► Al doping and Au NPs decoration on the ZnO NWs show improved photoresponse. ► Ultrafast photoresponse and reset times of 100 and 110 ms have been achieved. ► UV photosensitivity is enhanced by a factor of six under the UV illumination. ► Doped ZnO NWs heterostructure is a superior candidate for photodetectors.