Mid-infrared photodetectors based on InSb micro/nanostructures grown on low-cost mica substrates

Thin films consisted of InSb micro/nanostructures are grown on mica substrates by a simple physical vapor deposition method. The deposition temperature plays a major role in the surface morphology and material quality of the InSb films synthesized on mica substrates as evidenced by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction measurements. Mid-infrared photodetectors were also fabricated from the InSb films and superior device performance was obtained from the InSb films grown at elevated temperature.