Uncooled detector, optics, and camera development for THz imaging

Abstract

A prototype THz imaging system based on modified uncooled microbolometer detector arrays, INO MIMICII camera electronics, and a custom f/1 THz optics has been assembled. A variety of new detector layouts and architectures have been designed; the detector THz absorption was optimized via several methods including integration of thin film metallic absorbers, thick film gold black absorbers, and antenna structures. The custom f/1 THz optics is based on high resistivity floatzone silicon with parylene anti-reflection coating matched to the wavelength region of interest. The integrated detector, camera electronics, and optics are combined with a 3 THz quantum cascade laser for initial testing and evaluation. Future work will include the integration of fully optimized detectors and packaging and the evaluation of the achievable NEP with an eye to future applications such as industrial inspection and stand-off detection.