Innovative Equipment Large Single Crystal CdZnTe Production for Long-Wave Infrared Detector Arrays

In this Phase II SBIR project, we will optimize the design and develop the growth processes and equipment to routinely produce large (through 150mm), high-quality, single-crystal cadmium zinc telluride (CdZnTe or CZT) bulk material suitable for the production of CZT substrates for producing larger and highest-performing long-wave infrared (LWIR) detector arrays. We are addressing these issues by improving the growth process, hardware, control system, and associated instrumentation. In Phase I, we demonstrated proof of our concept by growing high-quality crystals directly from the melt. In Phase II we will further refine and build the scaled-up crystal growth technology, through 150 mm, but suitable for even larger crystal growth, and optimize its performance as a substrate for MCT infrared detectors production. In Phase III we will commercialize crystal production by providing and supporting superior production tools/processes/materials to end-user foundries. Approved for Public Release | 22-MDA-11340 (16 Dec 22)