High-Performance HgCdTe VLWIR Photovoltaic Detectors

"We propose a new generation of non-equilibrium superlattice, high efficiency VLWIR(14 um and longer) detectors that operate in the 40-77K temperature range. The objectives will be achieved by combining the advantages of the molecular beam epitaxy(MBE)crystal growth technique, an innovative non-equilibrium device architecture, and a superlattice structure to control the absorption cut-off wavelength more precisely. For improved space surveillance and threat warning capabilities, where the ability todetect faint objects at great distances is absolutely necessary, a breakthrough sensor technology such as that proposed here is critical. The proposed detectors are anticipated to have enormous potential not only in military, but also in commercialapplications including industrial and auto-emission monitoring, tumor detection, environmental monitoring, and fire detection etc."