Reconfigurable Infrared Flat Optics with Phase Change Materials

Alloys of GeSbSeTe (GSST) can be used to make actively tunable infrared transmission filters that are small, fast, and solid-state. These filters can be used for hyperspectral imaging, 3D LIDAR, portable bio/chem sensing systems, thermal emission control, and tunable filters. GSST is a low-loss phase-change material that can switch from a low-index (n=3), amorphous state to a high-index (n=4.5), hexagonal state with low loss (k<0.3) over a wavelength range of 2-10 microns or more. The GSST thickness can be selected to provide pure phase modulation, pure amplitude modulation, or coupled phase and amplitude modulation. GSST can be switched thermally in an oven, optically with visible light, or electrically via Joule heating at speeds from kilohertz to Gigahertz. It operates with reversible and polarization independent transmission switching over a wide incident angle (e.g., 0-60 degrees).

Researchers

Departments: Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Lincoln Laboratory
Technology Areas: Electronics & Photonics: Lasers / Sensing & Imaging: Imaging, Optical Sensing
Impact Areas: Connected World

  • methods and apparatus for modulating light with phase change materials
    United States of America | Granted | 11,320,647

License this technology

Interested in this technology? Connect with our experienced licensing team to initiate the process.

Sign up for technology updates

Sign up now to receive the latest updates on cutting-edge technologies and innovations.

More Technologies