Approaches to low-cost infrared sensing.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrical Engineering
• Optics

Background:

• The Air Force Research Laboratory's Sensors Directorate focuses on advancing infrared sensor technology.
• Current high-performance sensors are often expensive, utilizing materials like HgCdTe, InSb, and III/V strained layer superlattices.
• There is a growing consensus on the need for low-cost infrared sensing solutions for the Air Force.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore and develop next-generation, low-cost infrared sensing technologies.
• To address the Air Force's requirement for affordable infrared capabilities.
• To investigate alternative materials and approaches to traditional high-cost sensors.

Main Methods:

• Research into novel materials including silicides, Silicon-Germanium-Tin (SiGeSn), and lead salts.
• Integration of materials research with device fabrication and characterization.
• Leveraging advancements from academic, research, and operational communities.

Main Results:

• A multi-pronged research strategy is underway to achieve low-cost infrared sensing.
• Exploration of silicides, SiGeSn, and lead salts as potential low-cost alternatives.
• Emphasis on the integrated approach of materials, devices, and characterization.

Conclusions:

• The development of low-cost infrared sensors is crucial for future Air Force applications.
• The Directorate is pursuing diverse material research pathways to meet this need.
• An integrated approach across materials, devices, and characterization is key to successful development.