Patent attributes
An infrared detector based on CNT yarns includes a first electrode, a second electrode and a composite film between the first electrode and the second electrode. A first end of the composite film is electrically connected to the first electrode. A second end of the composite film and the second electrode cooperatively define a gap therebetween. The composite film is capable of extending in a direction towards the second electrode and, thereby forming an electrical connection between the first and the second electrodes when the composite film is illuminated by infrared light. The composite film includes a polymer layer, a plurality of semiconducting CNT yarns dispersed in the polymer layer, and a plurality of metallic CNT yarns dispersed in the polymer layer. Each semiconducting CNT yarn includes a plurality of twisted semiconducting CNTs. Each metallic CNT yarn includes a plurality of twisted metallic CNTs.