Diode-Based Integrated Circuits for Millimeter and Submillimeter-Wave Identification of Chemical and Biological Agents
Abstract
This final report summarizes efforts to realize a device and sensor technology for the study, detection, and identification of chemical and biological agents at millimeter and submillimeter-wave frequencies. This effort has focused on two goals: (1) the realization of an integrated-circuit technology for Terahertz Schottky diodes and (2) the development of sampled-line reflectometers for measuring the return loss (and consequently, absorption spectra) of chemical and bioagent samples. Schottky diodes represent the most successful device technology for applications in the submillimeter and terahertz region of the electromagnetic spectrum and these devices are the critical components used in most heterodyne receivers and harmonic generators for radio astronomy and atmospheric remote sensing. integrated planar diodes allow vast improvements in the level of performance of systems that rely on Schottky technology and permit the realization of fully integrated spectrometers and other instruments for chem/bio detection. During the past year and a half of this project, we have developed a beamlead diode processing technology for producing planar chips that can be readily integrated into external circuitry. These discrete diodes will allow rapid prototyping of circuits and systems and permit higher levels of performance by eliminating many of the difficulties associated with manual assembly of hybrid components. In addition, we have developed millimeter and submillimeter-wave reflectometers based on the sampled-line architecture. These reflectometers can be used to measure the complex reflection coefficients (magnitude and phase) of various chemical and biological materials and utilize the planar Schottky device technology previously mentioned.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 12, 2001
- Accession Number
- ADA403400
Entities
People
- Robert M. Weikle Ii
- Thomas W. Crowe
Organizations
- University of Virginia