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Long-Wavelength Infrared DetectorProposed device detects infrared photons of 10- to 100-micrometer wavelength by intersubband absorption in coupled quantum wells. Based on splitting of energy level occuring when two quantum wells placed so close together wave functions of quantized energy levels overlap. Detector absorbs photons, energy which equals difference in energy between two levels resulting from split. Because degree of overlap of wave functions and, therefore, magnitude of split varied by varying width of barrier between two coupled wells, such detector, in principle, designed to operate at any desired wavelength. Restrictions on design parameters of quantum wells of proposed device less severe than single-well devices. Energy levels near tops of wells still necessary so photoexcited carriers tunnel out. Additional flexibility in design obtained by use of wells formed by barriers of different heights.
Document ID
19890000287
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Other - NASA Tech Brief
Authors
Vasquez, Richard P.
(Caltech)
Date Acquired
August 14, 2013
Publication Date
June 1, 1989
Publication Information
Publication: NASA Tech Briefs
Volume: 13
Issue: 6
ISSN: 0145-319X
Subject Category
Physical Sciences
Report/Patent Number
NPO-17543
Accession Number
89B10287
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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