Detection of Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Light by a Photoacoustic Detector
Abstract
It is imperative that sensor technology in the mid infrared spectral range advance beyond the performance boundaries of the current generation of devices. Most high sensitivity mid-IR band detectors at high modulation frequencies are based on the cooled Mercury Cadmium Telluride (MCT) device operating in photoconductive or photovoltaic mode. While much engineering effort has been expended in the development of this and related detector technologies, for battlefield use the system suffers from the requirement of a cryogenic cooling mechanism. This adds weight and maintenance complexity. There are several pyroelectric devices available (e.g. deuterated triglycine sulfate, DTGS) which have better responsivity than an MCT detector at room temperature and at low modulation frequencies, but none which compares favorably with its performance when the detector is operating at 77 K and at high modulation frequencies. A conceptual alternative to this detection scheme is to use a photoacoustic detector. While the photoacoustic detector is an energy integrating device and thus suffers from 1/f responsivity loss, it can be made to function at room temperature with very inexpensive, light-weight components.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA208331
Entities
People
- Dennis M. Davis
- Lynn D. Hoffland
- Mark G. Rockley
Organizations
- Oklahoma State University–Stillwater