Infrared Detector Based on Parametric Amplification

A novel means to detect long wavelength infrared signals using parametric amplification is proposed. The new concept takes advantage of the large gains affordable with parametric amplifiers coupled with the superior uniformity and producibility characteristics of GaAs technologies. The detectors are expected to exhibit responsivity in excess of 12 A/W with detectivity greater than 10(13). Research will be performed to investigate the feasibility of this concept. The responsivity and noise of the detectors will be modeled as a function of the physical dimensions and properties of the semiconductor materials chosen. The applicability of this concept to other wavelengths will be explored. Benefits include the development of high performance arrays for missile defense, surveillance, and countermeasures. The proposed research will also support development of non-invasive medical sensors for drug screening, blood testing, and other diagnostics requiring high sensitivity to infrared signals. Other applications include detection of flaws in welding and machining, and remote sensing.