New Fields of investigation

THREAT DETECTION AND DISCRIMINATION are the keys to intelligent sensor systems of the future. HRL scientists are developing and maturing technologies that increase the performance, specificity, and affordability of sensing elements while decreasing their size, weight, and cost. Using our strengths in engineered electronic materials, processing and design of micro-electro-mechanical structures, and unique nano-engineered materials, we continue to develop a portfolio of key enablers for sensors that span the electromagnetic spectrum to enhance inertial, chemical, biological, and object detection.

INFRARED DETECTOR MATERIALS

HRL is recognized as a world leader in the growth and design of mercury cadmium telluride (HgCdTe) semiconductor materials for dual-band infrared detection and avalanche photodiodes (diodes that can multiply tiny currents) for laser radar (LADAR). Backed by state-of-the-art molecular beam epitaxy equipment that provides atomic level deposition and control of thin film materials, we can design and produce extremely low-defect device structures on a variety of substrates and size formats for high performance detector arrays. These processes are now ISO9001 compliant, a key criterion for HRL to be a wafer supplier to specialized military programs.

UNIQUE MEMS DEVICES

HRL continues to expand its portfolio of unique fabrication processes and device designs of quartz microelectromechanical structures (MEMS) and their integration with traditional semiconductor technologies. These capabilities have enabled us to develop new, ultra-compact, high Q filters (with "Q" standing for the sharpness of the response of a filter) as well as oscillators and resonators. Coupled with this effort, HRL has also developed an extensive suite of integration processes that allow MEMS and other specialized semiconductor devices to be mounted on a variety of substrates and formats for improved thermal management, higher density wafer scale packaging, cost reduction, and functionalization (introduction of chemical functional groups) of complex surface geometries. The ability to integrate quartz MEMS and other high performance electronic components with conventional microelectronics will reduce the size, weight, and cost of future telecommunication, navigation, and sensing devices.

NANOTECHNOLOGY FOR SENSING

HRL is also pursuing research in emerging areas in sensing technologies, such as nanoscale textured metamaterial surfaces. Metamaterials are unique, as they gain their electromagnetic properties from their structure rather than from the materials from which they are composed. These surfaces have nanoscale features that exploit quantum effects for localized enhanced detection. Quantum dot and nanowire materials (using crystals and wires small enough to allow superb tunability) show promise for tailorable spectral absorption, ultralow electrical resistivity, and miniaturized, wafer scale devices that enable integration of multiple spectral detection elements on a single chip. These new technologies provide an intriguing glimpse into the detection systems of the future.

developing technologies