An innovative method of fabricating large-area long wavelength infrared (LWIR) detector arrays that can be operated at room as well as cryogenic temperatures is proposed. This technique uses established technologies of micro-machining and microelectronic processing of silicon (Si) wafers for fabricating monolithic arrays of LWIR detectors. The detector elements of the array are formed by an ultra-thin film of a bolometer material possessing the highest temperature coefficient of resistance known, and the readout electronic microcircuit is fabricated on the same silicon chip next to the elements. The resultant detector arrays will possess features of low cost, low weight, high responsivity and high sensitivity. The low cost is due to a monolithic array structure requiring no cooling. The high responsivity is due a large to a large temperature coefficient of resistivity (greater than 15% to 0.2% for a conventional bolometer) of the new bolometer material. The high sensitivity is due to the combined effects of high responsivity, low noise and high thermal isolation of the bolometer from its surroundings.

Agency
National Science Foundation (NSF)
Institute
Division of Industrial Innovation and Partnerships (IIP)
Type
Standard Grant (Standard)
Application #
9261125
Program Officer
Joseph E. Hennessey
Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
1993-01-15
Budget End
1993-09-30
Support Year
Fiscal Year
1992
Total Cost
$49,966
Indirect Cost
Name
Electro-Optek Corporation
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
Torrance
State
CA
Country
United States
Zip Code
90505