SBIR/STTR Phase I: Spectroscopic Imaging Polarimeter using Nanoscale Antenna Arrays and Integrated Nano-Diodes

This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will develop the technology to perform Spectroscopic Imaging Polarimetry using Antenna Arrays with Integrated Diodes (SIP-AAID) to measure both the amplitude and phase of the light in an image at each pixel. Typically, visible and IR detectors / imagers measure only the intensity of light, ignoring potential information in the phase. Since antenna size and diode capacitance scales with electromagnetic radiation wavelength for optimum collection, this SIP will require the use of antenna's with features < 100 nm, and diodes with layer thicknesses < 5 nm and geometric areas < 50 nm, for visible and IR light. The development of a high resolution SIP-AAID that determines the complete polarization state of light at each pixel over a broad range of wavelengths is expected to revolutionize the IR and visible imaging detector industry. The relatively low cost and the unique capabilities of the SIP-AAID, when compared to present IR detectors, will likely provide a market pull for applications ranging from in/on-line process and product control to surveillance with unmatched recognition and tracking abilities. The commercial applications of this project will be in space and defence related industries.