According to Quantum Science this breakthrough in QD synthesis means its INFIQ technology can provide unparalleled short-wave infrared (SWIR) sensitivity for lead-free materials.
This level of performance will help to accelerate the progress of SWIR sensing into consumer markets, unlocking a variety of new applications in, for example, smartphones, wearable devices, and self-driving vehicles.
The announcement follows Quantum Science’s achievement of 1,400nm last year thanks to its innovative QD production process overcoming barriers that limit most lead-free QDs to just 1,200nm.
Reaching 1,550nm is significant because of the difficulty of growing long wavelength, lead-free QDs with sufficiently narrow size distributions and uniform shapes. In particular, it becomes difficult to control QD growth without damaging the optical properties that make them suitable for device applications.
Dr Hao Pang, CEO and Founder of Quantum Science, said, “At Quantum Science, we’re committed to leading on innovation, and to supplying our partners and customers with the cutting edge in QD technology. This achievement of lead-free QDs tuneable to 1,550nm is a landmark for the SWIR industry, firmly positioning us as the leader in lead-free QD production.
“Making 1200nm lead-free QDs is already very difficult and a huge achievement, as it has great value for SWIR technology in consumer markets. With performance of 1,500nm achieved, our lead-free INFIQ QD infrared technology is not just the most advanced solution for SWIR imaging and sensing on the market, it is also by far the industry's most desired option.
“As the demand for SWIR sensitive semiconductor materials grows, non-lead-containing QDs like our INFIQ lead-free infrared technology will be key to bringing SWIR into consumer markets. This technology is providing real market disruption and pushing the boundaries of what lead-free nanotechnology can accomplish.”
