H-PDLC Tunable Filter for Hyperspectral Imaging

Hyperspectral Imaging ,HIS, provides a means for detecting weapons of mass destruction. A core element of a HSI system is a tunable wavelength filter. There is a need for faster tunable wavelength filters than those that currently exist in practice. To address this need, this project will develop a tunable wavelength filter based on a holgraphically-formed, polymer-dispersed liquid crystal, HPDLC. This device, a composite consisting of a polymer and micron sized LC droplets, will provide improved electro-optical properties compared to traditional LC materials. Advantages include faster switching times, wide wavelength operating range across the ultraviolet-to-infrared spectrum, narrow wavelength resolution, and high transmission. After feasibility is demonstrated in Phase I, Phase II will combine the HPDLC filter with a compressive imaging architecture, in order to realize a complete HSI system. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: A HSI network of multiple sensors could be used simultaneously to monitor a given location and to acquire spectral content that provides the information needed to identify materials characterizing potential threats. This information can then be sent on to government and military security officials to initiate a suitable response.