Scientists at the University of Warwick have developed the 'Q-Eye', a sensor that is said to be much faster than competing technologies used to detect and identify hidden objects. The invention senses radiation across the terahertz band of the electromagnetic spectrum, just between the infrared and microwave bands.
Professors in Warwick's Nano-Silicon Group, Physics Department, Evan Parker and Terry Whall, led the team which developed the device. Prof Parker commented, "We were very surprised when our first very crude prototype showed such impressive speed and detection performance and our initial calculations indicated world-beating detector capability."
The Q-Eye features a thin film of aluminium deposited on top of a silicon layer placed under strain, used to create an electronic cooling (e-cooling) process. The electrons in the silicon layer are so isolated from the silicon lattice they become highly sensitive to incoming radiation. This e-cooling process is the secret to Q-Eye sensor's performance, enabling fast imaging and material identification.
The device could prove useful in discovering concealed goods in the retail industry or for non-destructive monitoring, for example quality control in drugs or food. Other applications include astronomical and climate science observations, detecting weapons in airport security and medical diagnosis.
Professors Parker and Whall are currently working on a demonstrator of the device, having been awarded a £100,000 Smart award from Innovate UK. The work is moving out of academic research into the commercial world, offering opportunities for partnership and investment.
Pic: Prof Terry Whall and Prof Evan Parker, creators of the Q-Eye
Author
Tom Austin-Morgan
Source: www.newelectronics.co.uk