UV Gallium Phosphide (GaP) Photodiode
The UV Gallium Phosphide (GaP) Photodiode is a highly sensitive ultraviolet detector designed for applications requiring solar-blind or visible-blind UV detection. With responsivity typically spanning...
UV Gallium Phosphide (GaP) Photodiode
High-Precision UV Gallium Phosphide Photodiode for Solar-Blind Detection in Industrial, Medical, and Scientific Applications
The UV Gallium Phosphide (GaP) Photodiode is a highly sensitive ultraviolet detector designed for applications requiring solar-blind or visible-blind UV detection. With responsivity typically spanning 150–550 nm, it is tailored for UV-A, UV-B, and partial UV-C monitoring, while completely suppressing visible and infrared light. GaP material ensures superior selectivity, making it an ideal choice for flame detection, UV curing systems, medical diagnostics, and environmental monitoring. These photodiodes feature low dark current, stable operation, and fast response times, supporting accurate real-time monitoring. Their compact design with small to medium active areas provides integration flexibility for OEM and laboratory instruments. Offering reliable operation across wide temperature ranges, they deliver consistent performance in industrial and scientific environments. The UV Gallium Phosphide Photodiode is especially well-suited for applications where strong visible-light rejection and accurate UV sensitivity are critical.
Understanding UV Gallium Phosphide (GaP) Photodiode
Gallium Phosphide (GaP) UV photodiodes are semiconductor detectors engineered for solar-blind ultraviolet detection. They provide high responsivity to UV-A and UV-B while completely suppressing visible and IR wavelengths, ensuring precise UV-only detection. Their fast response time and low dark current make them suitable for real-time monitoring in flame detection, UV curing, and medical diagnostic instruments. Unlike broadband SiC photodiodes, GaP devices are specifically valued for their ability to block visible light without requiring additional filters. Their rugged design and wide operating temperature range make them a versatile choice for industrial, medical, and scientific monitoring applications where UV selectivity is essential.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
| Spectral Range | 150 – 550 nm |
| Peak Wavelength |
~ 440 nm (UV sensitivity peak)
|
| Active Area |
0.2 – 1.0 mm² (typical)
|
| Dark Current (VR = 10 V) | < 10 pA |
| Capacitance | ~ 10 pF |
| Responsivity (at 280 nm) | 0.08 – 0.15 A/W |
| Visible Rejection Ratio | > 10⁵ |
| Response Time | < 5 ns |
| Operating Temperature | −40 … +100 °C |
| Storage Temperature | −55 … +125 °C |
| Maximum Reverse Voltage | 20 V |
Key Features and Advantages
Solar-Blind UV Detection
GaP photodiodes offer excellent solar-blind characteristics, detecting UV-A and UV-B radiation while completely blocking visible and infrared light.
High Selectivity Without Filters
Unlike broadband SiC photodiodes, GaP devices inherently suppress visible radiation, eliminating the need for additional optical filters.
Fast Response Time
With nanosecond-scale response times, GaP detectors are suitable for high-speed monitoring, making them ideal for flame detection and UV curing control.
Low Dark Current
Their low dark current ensures noise-free operation, critical in sensitive diagnostic and monitoring applications.
Compact and Flexible Design
Available in small active areas, GaP photodiodes can be easily integrated into portable and embedded UV measurement systems.
Durability and Long-Term Stability
GaP photodiodes maintain reliable operation over extended periods, ensuring consistent performance in industrial and laboratory environments.
By offering fast response, solar-blind selectivity, and long-term stability, UV GaP photodiodes are highly effective for safety-critical and precision UV detection tasks.
Applications Across Industries
Flame Detection and Fire Safety
GaP photodiodes are widely used in flame detectors and safety sensors, where their solar-blind properties ensure reliable flame monitoring even in direct sunlight.
Medical Diagnostics
In dermatology, phototherapy, and UV exposure monitoring, GaP detectors provide accurate readings without visible light interference.
Industrial UV Curing Systems
They support real-time monitoring and control in UV curing processes for inks, adhesives, and coatings.
Environmental Monitoring
GaP devices are used in atmospheric UV measurement and pollution detection systems where selective UV sensitivity is essential.
Semiconductor and Photonics Research
Researchers rely on GaP detectors for optical experiments requiring strict UV-only sensitivity.
Aerospace and Defence
Their rugged design makes them suitable for aerospace UV detection systems and defence-grade flame/arc monitoring.
By combining solar-blind behaviour, rapid response, and long-term durability, GaP photodiodes are critical in industries demanding accurate UV selectivity.
Why Choose United Spectrum Instruments?
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Official distributor of advanced UV photodiodes in India
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Local stock for faster delivery and reduced lead times
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Competitive pricing across industrial, medical, and research markets
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Application-specific consultation for solar-blind UV system design
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Nationwide after-sales service, technical training, and support
FAQs
What is unique about GaP UV photodiodes?
They are solar-blind detectors with strong UV sensitivity and complete visible light suppression.
What is their typical spectral range?
They cover approximately 150–550 nm, focusing on UV-A and UV-B.
Do GaP photodiodes need optical filters?
No, their solar-blind behaviour eliminates the need for extra filtering.
Are they suitable for outdoor flame detection?
Yes, their visible blindness ensures reliable flame detection even under sunlight.
How does United Spectrum support Indian customers?
By providing local stock, expert consultation, quick delivery, and nationwide after-sales service.
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FAQs
What is unique about GaP UV photodiodes?
They are solar-blind detectors with strong UV sensitivity and complete visible light suppression.
What is their typical spectral range?
They cover approximately 150–550 nm, focusing on UV-A and UV-B.
Do GaP photodiodes need optical filters?
No, their solar-blind behaviour eliminates the need for extra filtering.
Are they suitable for outdoor flame detection?
Yes, their visible blindness ensures reliable flame detection even under sunlight.
How does United Spectrum support Indian customers?
By providing local stock, expert consultation, quick delivery, and nationwide after-sales service.


