Single-photon detections (SPDs) represent a highly sensitive light detection technique capable of detecting individual photons at extremely low light intensity levels. This technology mainly relies on the mainstream SPDs, such as photomultiplier tubes (PMTs), avalanche photodiodes (SAPD), superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors (SNSPDs), superconducting transition-edge sensor (TES), and hybrid lead halide perovskite. However, the complexity and high manufacturing cost, coupled with the requirement of special conditions like a low-temperature environment, pose significant challenges to the wide adoption of SPDs. To address the challenges faced by SPDs, significant efforts have been devoted to enhancing their performance. In this review, we first summarize the principles and technical challenges of several SPDs. Conductors, superconductors, semiconductors, 3D bulk materials, 2D film materials, 1D nanowires, and 0D quantum dots have all been discussed for single-photon detectors. Methods such as special optical structure, waveguide integration, and strain engineering have been employed to elevate the performance of single-photon detectors. These techniques enhance light absorption and modulate the band structure of the material, thereby improving the single-photon sensitivity. By providing an overview of the current situation and future challenges of SPDs, this review aims to propose potential solutions for photon detection technology.

单光子检测 (SPD) 是一种高度灵敏的光检测技术，能够在极低的光强度水平下检测单个光子。该技术主要依赖于主流的SPD，如光电倍增管（PMT）、雪崩光电二极管（SAPD）、超导纳米线单光子探测器（SNSPD）、超导跃迁边缘传感器（TES）和混合卤化铅钙钛矿。然而，复杂性和高制造成本，加上低温环境等特殊条件的要求，给SPD的广泛采用带来了重大挑战。为了应对 SPD 面临的挑战，我们投入了大量精力来提高其绩效。在这篇综述中，我们首先总结了几种 SPD 的原理和技术挑战。导体、超导体、半导体、3D 块体材料、2D 薄膜材料、1D 纳米线和 0D 量子点都已针对单光子探测器进行了讨论。特殊光学结构、波导集成和应变工程等方法已被用来提高单光子探测器的性能。这些技术增强了光吸收并调制材料的能带结构，从而提高了单光子灵敏度。通过概述 SPD 的现状和未来挑战，本综述旨在提出光子检测技术的潜在解决方案。