The Extension of (Hg,Cd)Te Detector Technology to the Near-Millimeter Spectral Region,
Abstract
This paper discusses the development of the first hot-electron photo-conductive detector using crystals of the alloy semiconductor mercury-cadmium-telluride, Hg sub 1-x, Cdxte. When the crystals were irradiated with near-millimeter wave (NMMW) radiation, sensitivity was observed throughout the 100 to 1000 GHz spectral region. These results are significant because they suggest that the extensive (Hg,Cd)te technology base developed for FLIR systems may also be exploited for the development of NMMW sensors. Such exploitation might lead to the development of hybrid NMMW/IR sensors using only one detection element. The need for semiconductors with a variable bandgap has led to the study of various ternary compounds. Among these, (Hg,Cd)te has been developed for use in detectors and lasers in the 8 to 14 micrometer spectral region. Operation in the hot-electron photoconductive mode extends the use of this material to the NMMW spectral region. Applications include Ir and NMMW heterodyne receivers for all-weather surveillance and tracking systems, NMMW broadband video receivers for spectroscopic studies of materials and atmospheric gases, and submillimeter heterodyne receivers for fusion plasma diagnostics.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1980
- Accession Number
- ADA090449
Entities
People
- Bruce A. Weber
- Stanley M. Kulpa
Organizations
- Harry Diamond Laboratories