Real-Time Multiband THz Passive Imaging in Silicon Technologies (C08)

• Subject Area: Electronic Semiconductors, Components and Circuits, Integrated Systems, Sensor Technology, Theoretical Electrical Engineering ; Communication Technology and Networks, High-Frequency Technology and Photonic Systems, Signal Processing and Machine Learning for Information Technology
• Term: since 2017
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 287022738

The research in C08 focuses on silicon-integrated passive imagers for the THz range to extract objects' frequency-dependent emissivity and reflectivity in real-time within dynamic environments. C08 aims to develop silicon-integrated detection circuits with and without pre-amplification that measure passive radiation in both the THz and IR ranges, with the long-term goal of a multiband sensor fusion on a single silicon die. The project focuses on extending the lower bandwidth of THz direct detectors above 2 THz and enhancing their sensitivity regarding Noise Equivalent Temperature Difference (NETD). Another key goal is creating a low-noise multiband camera readout for multi-pixel arrays to achieve a camera NETD below 0.5 K. Within C08, the fundamental research will enable a compact, lightweight, room-temperature silicon-integrated camera for passive imaging in the THz (0.15 to 5 THz) and IR (above 10 THz) ranges with color filtering and polarization diversity. In summary, C08 enables THz passive imaging in different sub-bands, pushes the sensitivity of THz direct detectors below a state-of-the-art NEP of 1 pW/√Hz, maximizes the sensitivity of THz direct detectors up to 5 THz, develops real-time Focal Plane Arrays (FPAs) with in-pixel LNAs and digital readouts, and allows passive THz and IR signal readout on a single silicon die.

• DFG Programme: CRC/Transregios
• Subproject of: TRR 196: Mobile Material Characterization and Localization by Electromagnetic Sensing
• Applicant Institution: Universität Duisburg-Essen
• Project Heads: Professor Dr. Ullrich Pfeiffer; Dr. Sascha Weyers, until 12/2024