Electron and Ion Microscopy and Nanofabrication of Metamaterials Superlattices for IR Applications
Abstract
The next-generation of optoelectronic devices for sensing, imaging, thermometry, navigation and surveillance in consumer and defense sectors operate in the electromagnetic spectrum s infrared (IR) region. Hence, improving the integration and tunability of these devices for IR emission and detection is crucial. Research groups at McMaster University (Canada), Vanderbilt (US) and Penn State (US) will develop directionally-controlled, tuneable and switchable IR light sources by incorporating new materials for both spectral and geometric tuning, and switchability, induced by ferroelectric coupling. McMaster will perform three critical complementary tasks : induce strong coupling in laterally-doped plasmonic heterostructures with ion-based nanofabrication, locally measure the effects of geometry on the optical behavior of metamaterial structures using ultra-high energy resolution electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS), and perform high-resolution imaging/spectroscopy for new materials into novel aperiodic distributed Bragg reflectors (aDBR) and ferroelectric/optics interfaces. This research is innovative in that it uses the most advanced ion and electron microscopes to reveal the local properties of metamaterials elements, locally control the structure of the materials, and solve the thorny issues of materials growth related to coupled, switchable structures. Anticipated results include device designs, new formulations for materials growth, tools for mapping EELS spectra, research publications, conference presentations and possible invention disclosures.This work is critical to the ONR and Naval Research Enterprise in developing new materials and devices as outlined in the Naval S&T Focus Areas. These include the Maritime Battlespace Focus Area, with development of advanced and dynamic IR emitters for targeting applications, and Improved Autonomous Sensing. We can also Maximize Systems Performance via Adaptation to the Environment by customizing the operation of emission bands within atmospheric windows and/or to be modulated at a defined frequency for reducing false alarms andensure the completeness and quality of messages. Such devices could be included in Autonomy and Unmanned Systems in the near future.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Apr 02, 2024
- Source ID
- N629092312085
Entities
People
- Nabil Bassim
Organizations
- McMaster University
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy