Photoconductive Materials

Early studies of the photoconductive properties of materials led to an understanding of the electronic properties of matter, particularly a new class of materials – the semiconductors. Their sheer number and diversity promote a wide range of sensitivities covering almost all electromagnetic spectrum, from terahertz to γ-ray wavelengths. This chapter focuses on the phenomenon of photoconductivity from a materials point of view and how it is evolving. The physical and electronic properties of many common materials are examined and listed, giving information on their production and use in specific applications, such as optoelectronics, radiation detection and measurement, and energy harvesting.