Narrowband Microbolometer Infrared Detectors for Chemical and Biological Sensing

A narrow-band microbolometric detector is proposed to the address need for a low-cost, portable system to perform chemical and biological threat detection. An approach is shown to achieve a narrow-band bolometric detector whose response can be tailored to both a desired peak wavelength and bandwidth. The approach will enable the design of an array of detectors meeting the requirements for chemical and biological threat detection, and compatible with standard micro-fabrication methods. The Phase I investigation builds upon past work by the team developing spectrally selective microbolometers for imaging applications. An experimentally validated detector design is anticipated in Phase I, with a functional optical cell employing the narrowband microbolometer array demonstrated in Phase II. The resulting device will be compatible with low-cost production, portability, and use as a distributed or disposable sensor.