Low-cost, High-performance CMOS Photon-counting Sensor without Electron Avalanche Gain for High-energy Physics and Other Scientific Applications

A novel low-cost and high-performance photon detector that can be manufactured by the modern high-volume technologies is widely sought for in high-energy particle measurements and other scientific imaging applications. This novel detector needs to combine accurate photon-counting capability, large photosensitive area, fast response, high quantum efficiency, and compatibility with cryogenic temperature, high-pressure, and magnetic field. Quanta image sensor is a novel platform solid-state imaging technology, which is completely compatible with the standard CMOS manufacturing processes for low-cost and high-volume production. The detectors in Quanta Image Sensor, called “jots,” can achieve accurate photon-counting capability without the use of electron avalanche gain or cooling. It can provide more advanced photon-counting performance with the linear photon-counting response, high-speed readout, zero dead time, high quantum efficiency, low dark count, high dynamic range, and high stability. A Quanta Image Sensor that is suitable for high-energy physics and other scientific applications will be developed in this project with validated core technologies. In Phase I, the compatibility of low-temperature operation will be evaluated with existing Gigajot’s prototype product. A larger jot detector and a high-speed ADC will be designed to satisfy the requirements of a large photosensitive area and high-speed response. The paths of developing products for UV photon detection will be explored.Commercial Applications and Other Benefits: A broad range of applications can benefit from the outcome of this project. These applications include scientific applications such as high energy particle LHC experiments, astronomical imaging, fluorescence measurement, and flow cytometry; medical imaging applications such as scintillation measurements, molecular imaging, and capsule endoscopy; industrial applications such as surface inspection and radiation monitoring; and consumer applications such as 3D depth imaging and sensing, robotic imaging, automotive, optical communication, robotic sensing, and internet of things.