Semiconductor Engineering has an interesting interview with Pawel Malinowski, a leading program manager at Imec. Malinowski emphasized the quest for novel methodologies in creating image sensors. The aim is to surpass the limitations imposed by silicon, a material traditionally lauded for its compatibility with human vision due to its sensitivity to visible wavelengths of light. Despite the maturity of the field, with approximately 6 billion image sensors sold annually across various applications, there’s a growing need to explore beyond the visible spectrum, particularly into ultraviolet and infrared wavelengths.
One area of intense focus is the shortwave infrared range, spanning from one to two microns. This spectrum offers the ability to see through obstacles like fog, smoke, or clouds, making it especially valuable for automotive applications. Traditional silicon becomes transparent in this wavelength, failing to capture the unique phenomena present in these frequencies.
The challenge lies in accessing these elusive wavelengths. Traditional methods like bonding, involving materials like indium gallium arsenide or mercury cadmium telluride, are prohibitively expensive. Imec’s approach, however, leans towards depositing materials such as organic substances or quantum dots to create thin film photodetector (TFPD) sensors. These sensors, more absorptive than silicon, offer a new realm of possibilities in image sensing.
Malinowski drew parallels between the development of these new sensors and the evolution of silicon image sensors in the late 20th century. By introducing an additional transistor in the thin-film absorber, the new technology promises significant noise reduction, a perennial challenge in sensor design.
These innovations are not just limited to automotive applications. The potential for these advanced sensors extends to consumer electronics, medical devices, and even military applications. In consumer electronics, especially smartphones, the technology promises enhanced vision capabilities, allowing cameras to capture more than what the human eye can perceive.
In the medical field, this technology could lead to advances in miniaturization for devices like endoscopes. The ability to create smaller pixels with higher resolution can significantly impact diagnostic capabilities. Additionally, the technology’s sensitivity to different wavelengths can aid industries like food processing, where detecting moisture levels is crucial.
Malinowski’s discussion also touched upon emerging trends in sensor technology, emphasizing the shift towards application-specific designs. The future lies in sensors that deliver not just visual information but also cater to specific functional needs, such as in autonomous driving systems or facial recognition technologies.
