Spin current-based detector for solar blind UV detection

Semiconductor-based detectors are limited to absorbing photons whose energy is equal to or slightly greater than the electronic band gap of the semiconductor.  As a result, it is difficult to find a commercially available detector that can span 200-280nm, have a fast response time, and have a high UV/V rejection ratio.  This range is unique because UVC is completely absorbed by the atmospheric ozone layer; therefore, objects that emit radiation in the UVC can easily be spotted with a low false-alarm rate.  For example, questionable space objects that are moving over tactical time scales, such as rockets, will emit in the UVC from the plume, which can be detected by UVC detectors which are solar blind.  The expected outcome of this project is a UVC detector, based off of the quantum spin Seebeck effect to generate a spin current, that can span 200-280nm with a flat responsivity, high response time, and a greater than 105 UV/V rejection ratio.  Fabrication and original research of this device occurred at a university where it was proven that a spin current could be generated, with the correct device architecture, from the wavelength span of 400-2200nm.  Initial measurements show that the detector is also capable of UVC detection with a higher responsivity.  The responsivity of the patented-protected detector is lower than 100 mA/W and the largest portion of the project is devoted to improving the responsivity to approved levels.  The project will accomplish the following goals: 1) prove the feasibility of increasing the responsivity to at least 100 mA/V, 2) show a UV/V rejection ratio of at least 105, and 3) show detector capabilities through building a benchtop-working prototype.