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 wave infrared (LWIR) colloidal quantum dot (CQD)-based focal plane array (FPA) in order to significantly reduce the cost of LWIR hyperspectral imagers. In order to realize this goal, it will first be necessary to successfully fabricate and demonstrate the performance of novel LWIR HgTe CQD detector arrays. This will be accomplished through a collaboration between the Episensors Technologies team and Prof. Guyot-Sionnest"s group at the University of Chicago. The Episensors team will leverage its extensive experience in nanotechnology, infrared technologies, device design and fabrication to develop and test detector arrays utilizing HgTe CQD films as the IR absorber material. The Guyot-Sionnest group will apply their substantial expertise to develop synthesis methods for generating CQDs with good optical absorption and electrical properties in the 8-12 micron range. The LWIR CQD detector arrays will be fabricated and tested by the Episensors team. This synergistic effort will provide a high probably of success by utilizing both the chemical synthesis experience of the Guyot-Sionnest group and the IR device experience of the Episensors team.