Abstract
UCF researchers have invented a nanoscale IR detector that overcomes major limitations of today's cooled and uncooled IR detectors. The Optical Frequency-Selective Absorber-Based Infrared Detector operates uncooled and can be tuned to a specific narrow bandwidth within the IR spectrum. The new detector also has a faster response time, zero back reflection, and can be fabricated using simple, lower cost nanoimprint lithography.
Technical DetailsThe new uncooled IR detector consists of a sub-wavelength gold hole/disk array, that when coupled with a ground plane, induces extraordinary transmission through the hole/disk array and zero back reflection. The hole/disk array functions as a "light funnel" in coupling incident radiation into the cavity with approximately 100 percent efficiency over a narrow resonant bandwidth, resulting in frequency-selective perfect (~100 percent) absorption of the incident radiation. The metallic optical frequency-selective gold hole/disk surface comprises two layers that are optically coupled. The top layer is a perforated sub-wavelength-sized hole array, and the bottom layer is a sub-wavelength-sized disk array aligned underneath the hole array. The arrays together function as a resonant antenna to provide the highly efficient notch filter. Like an antenna, the new detector is tunable as a function of the coupling between the hole/disk by changing the hole/disk dimensions, relief depth, or array spacing.
Benefit
Operates uncooled.Detection sensitivity in the mid-IR range (~ 8-12µm) is not limited by the blackbody radiation limit.Tunable narrow-band wavelength-selectivity has much higher detectivity and faster response time.Cheaper to manufacture using simple nanoimprint-based fabrication methods.Enables multi-spectral pseudo "color" imaging in the IR domain.Market Application
Space explorationSpectroscopyMilitary and civilian defenseMedical testing and forensic analysis
Brochure
