SBIR-STTR Award

It is here proposed to demonstrate AlGaN based solar-blind avalanche photodiodes and arrays operating in both linear and Geiger mode that would be suitable for replacing photomultiplier tube technology bio-agent detection, missile warning systems, and hostile fire identification. These objectives will be reached through a comprehensive R&D thrust in the areas of semiconductor material epitaxial growth (including defect reduction, improved doping efficiency -especially p-type-, and uniformity enhancement), APD device and array fabrication technology (including surface passivation and ohmic metal contacts), component packaging and device qualification, along with device measurement, and theoretical modeling/design/simulation. This technical approach is based upon this group’s unique scientific and technological experience and know-how in the area of AlGaN semiconductors, GaN avalanche photodiodes, and solar-blind focal plane arrays and devices.

The ultimate goal of this Phase II proposal is to develop and deliver one (or more) prototype solar-blind APD array systems that target a specific defense platform (platform to be determined). This project will be broken up into a 24-month BASE effort that will focus on developing the core underlying solar-blind APD array technology and developing and delivering a generic APD array system. At the end of the BASE effort we will begin to reach out to the custodians of various potential defense platforms that could benefit from the availability of our APD array technology developed in the BASE effort. The goal of the 12-Month Phase II OPTION effort will be to continue this platform targeting and to work on developing the commercial potential of the technology by developing our APD array system into a prototype APD array product (or products) that will target one or more specific defense platforms. This will form the basis for a Phase III effort wherein we will be able to use feedback from the porotype testing to make incremental tweaks to the design and to rapidly develop the necessary production capability to begin delivering components for the targeted systems in quantity.