Advanced ROICTechnology for Strained Layer Superlattice Photodetectors

The objective of his topic is to develop an optimized SLS-based Infrared FPA for high temperature operation with considerations for lower cost, size, weight, and power (C-SWAP). Infrared imaging systems in use today come at a high cost, require large amounts of space, are heavy, and consume large amounts of power. To reduce noise and improve responsitivity, such detectors are cryogenically cooled to below -200„aC, which in combination with C-SWAP requirements greatly limit their applicability for integration into aircraft. Detector structures composed of SLS material have demonstrated the potential to achieve high temperature operation MWIR and LWIR, responsivity similar to HgCdTe detectors, and reduced dark currents. The focus of this SBIR is to develop SLS-based detectors hybridized with ROICs specifically optimized for use with such detectors. The full benefits of a SLS-based detector cannot be realized without the development of a ROIC that is ¡§optimized¡¨ to exploit the beneficial characteristics of the SLS detector. As a result, we are exploring the development of a SLS-based active pixel sensor (APS) FPA with advanced ROIC optimized to bring the benefits of SLS to the forefront. BENEFIT: It is anticipated that the Phase I work will demonstrate the feasibility of our approach for the development of a SLS-based FPA, composed of SLS type II superlattice detector array hybridized with an optimized ROIC, with superior capabilities in terms of high temperature operation, responsivity similar to HgCdTe, and reduced dark currents, suitable for insertion into both MWIR and LWIR imaging systems on multiple surveillance, threat warning, and situational awareness platforms. Additional benefits will include the reduction of CSWAP. In Phase II, a fully operational prototype of our SLS-based FPA will have been constructed and tested. It is anticipated that the SLS FPA technology will have applicability in locating and tracking individual targets, maintaining track through obcurants, simultaneous targets, and navigation tasks, in both government and commercial sectors, thus providing a ¡§dual use¡¨.