Semiconductor Heterostructure Quantum Wire Multiwavelength IR Photodetectors for Focal Plane Arrays

The objective of this two year $743,441 Phase II project is to develop quantum wire infrared photodetecting (QRIP) focal plane arrays (FPA) with increased performance and decreased fabrication and operational costs compared to existing technologies and to develop the technology to the extent such that it is ready to transfer to industry at the completion of the project. Advantages of QRIP FPAs include the ability to detect normal incident light, operate at higher temperatures, significantly reduced fabrication costs, ability to provide multiwavelength detection. The development of these QRIP FPAs matches the objectives of the USAF and its SBIR Program very well. Applications with large military and civilian markets include space-based sensor and surveillance system, as well as a variety of other applications including biological/chemical sensors, CWDM, terahertz emitters, and high efficiency tandem solar cells. Phoebus has an aggressive commercialization plan to commercialize these addition applications of the quantum wires. A close collaboration with The City College of New York and Talktronics, Inc. will allow for efficient development of the QRIP FPAs. Companies such as Raytheon, Lockheed Martin and TRW will be consulted to aid in the transfer of the technology to industry at the completion of Phase II.