A Low-Cost, High-Performance Colloidal Quantum Dot LWIR FPA for Hyperspectral Imaging

The primary goal of this proposed work is to develop a long wavelength infrared (LWIR) colloidal quantum dot (CQD)-based focal plane array (FPA) and show its feasibility when used in a camera system and a hyperspectral imaging system. Phase I results cumulated in the first-ever synthesis of photoresponsive LWIR CQDs and CQD-based photodetectors at the single device level operating at room temperature. Furthermore, a CQD film compatible, commercially available read out integrated circuit (ROIC) was identified. These three accomplishments will allow the Sivananthan Laboratories team, with the help of the Guyot-Sionnest group at the University of Chicago, to develop a fully functional FPA during Phase II. The Guyot-Sionnest group will apply their substantial expertise to improve synthesis methods to create CQDs with the desired optical absorption and electrical properties in the 8-12 micron cutoff range at room temperature. The Sivananthan Laboratories group will leverage its extensive experience in nanotechnology, infrared technologies, device design and fabrication, as well as infrared camera design and hyperspectral imaging to build a low-cost LWIR camera and a hyperspectral imaging system.