Hyperspectral Infrared Imagers Utilizing Plasmon and Phonon Engineered Nanostructures

Particularly important parts of the electromagnetic spectrum above the visible wavelengths are referred to as the mid- and long-wavelength infrared regimes, which cover a wavelength range of ~3 - 15 um. This is the range where thermal imaging operates, and many chemical species have their spectral fingerprints. However, these spectral regimes pose significant challenges for high-performance detection and imaging. Here, the HyPhEN-project aims for a game-changing cost-efficient high-performance hyperspectral sensing microsystem technology. We will develop an imaging array that utilizes scalable nanotechnology, integrate it with miniaturized spectral filters to create hyperspectral features, alongside the development of integrated read-out electronics. We expect that this proof-of-concept microsystem will lead to an entirely new family of smart high-performance hyperspectral assemblies, which can be used in different applications from consumer products to chemical analysis and security.