【Device Papers】Highly transparent and self-powered Ga₂O₃/NiO photovoltaic photodetector for corona discharge detection

      Researchers from the Incheon National University have published a dissertation titled "Highly transparent and self-powered Ga₂O₃/NiO photovoltaic photodetector for corona discharge detection" in Materials Letters.

Abstract

      The corona discharge detection method is crucial for ensuring the safety and monitoring of high-voltage transmission systems. Corona discharge emits light in the solar-blind deep-ultraviolet (DUV) range. This study presents a novel high-voltage corona discharge detector approach using a self-powered and transparent Ga₂O₃/NiO photovoltaic photodetector. The device exhibits a low dark current of 2 nA, leading to high responsivity (6.57 mA/W), detectivity (7.80 × 10¹⁰ Jones), and fast response speeds (rise and fall times of 50 μs and 30 μs, respectively) under DUV emission, similar to corona discharges. Ga₂O₃ detector is highly selective to ultraviolet (UV) light, enabling accurate and reliable detection of corona discharges even in noisy environments. Additionally, the metal-oxide Ga₂O₃ DUV detector is inherently transparent, allowing seamless integration without obstructing visual inspections for high-voltage utilities and applications. This offers a promising solution for the early detection of corona discharges, preventing potential equipment failures and ensuring the safety and reliability of high-voltage systems.

DOI：

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.matlet.2025.138806