Organic/IR-Semiconductor Heterojunctions for Low-Cost, High Temperature IR Arrays

Abstract

This program evaluated a new technology for producing infrared photo- diodes in HgCdTe and InSb using evaporated organic heterojunctions. High quantum-efficiency IR detectors were demonstrated with the organic process comparable to commercial IR detectors. The organic photodiodes at room temperature were better than commercial detectors. They had lower leakage currents and higher resistance-area products (RoAs). Detector arrays made with the organics can operate at higher temperatures than the current detectors. Initial dam at low temperatures were poorer than commercial detectors with lower RoAs and slightly higher 1/f noise. This comparison at low temperature may change with further optimization of the organic process. The organic diode process is very simple, low cost and non-damaging to the HgCdTe or InSb. It involves thermal evaporation of the organic onto the HgCdTe or InSb followed by evaporation of metal contacts through a shadow mask. Phase 1 demonstrated organic/HaCdTe IR detectors with quantum efficiencies similar to commercial devices operating at higher temperatures. The technology is ready for a Phase 2 to further optimize the processing for IR arrays and to increase yields.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Aug 30, 1992
Accession Number
ADA255971

Entities

People

  • Colin E. Jones

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Advanced Electronics

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Band Gaps
  • Ceramic Materials
  • Detectors
  • Electrical Properties
  • Energy Bands
  • Evaporation
  • Heterojunctions
  • Infrared Detectors
  • Optical Detectors
  • Organic Materials
  • Resistance
  • Rocket Oxidizers
  • Semiconductor Devices
  • Semiconductor Diodes
  • Semiconductor Junctions
  • Semiconductors
  • Surface Finishing

Fields of Study

  • Materials science

Readers

  • Electronics Engineering
  • Semiconductor Device Technology
  • Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Autonomous Capabilities and Mission Reconnaissance.

Technology Areas

  • Directed Energy
  • Directed Energy - Pulsed-Laser Deposition
  • Microelectronics
  • Quantum Computing