Silicon nanopyramids with the excellent ability of light absorption have been mostly reported in solar cells. Here, we report an obviously enhanced lateral photovoltaic effect (LPE) in copper-nanoparticle-covered random Si nanopyramids (Cu@Si-pyramid). Remarkable photoelectric responses are achieved in broadband from 405 to 780 nm. Furthermore, a prominent LPE is double-enhanced from 74.0 to 157.9 mV mm when the linear region decreases from 3 to 1 mm. Finite-difference time-domain simulation is applied to investigate the origin of the exceptional results. This work declares a position-sensitive property of Si-nanopyramid systems and proposes promising applications to photodetections based on LPE.

A colossal positive magnetoresistive effect triggered by a laser was observed in a nonmagnetic Si-based metal-oxide-semiconductor structure. The positive magnetoresistance was greatly promoted compared to the case with no laser illumination. In addition, it shows high sensitivity to the magnetic field intensity above a certain threshold at room temperature, making it an appealing candidate for magnetic field detection. Moreover, the magnetoresistance can be regulated by the position of laser beams, which enables us to tailor the devices to meet various needs. We attribute this effect to the anisotropy of the carrier transport characteristics in our structure. The work suggests a different approach to develop laser-controlled magnetic devices and may greatly improve the performance of existing magnetoresistance-based devices.

A switchable lateral resistance effect with high reverse voltage has been observed in nanoscale copper groove structure. With the stimulation of electric pulse and local illumination of laser, the lateral resistance of the structure can be modulated in a non-volatile manner. We attribute this phenomenon to the different width of depletion region and the Schottky barrier change caused by the nanoscale charge trapping effect. This work may inspire a new approach of resistance modulation and help the development of laser-assisted electric pulse merged devices.