Description:
- Optical sensing; Optical imaging
- LiDAR
- Chemical/biological characterization
Abstract
USC researchers have developed a technique for producing fully integrated and ultra-compact polarimetric detection systems utilizing helicity-dependent photocurrent processes of Weyl semimetal. This system, utilizing three or fewer TaAs sensing units and integrated grating wave plates, directly measures the Stokes parameters. The measured currents can be inverted to extract the full Stokes parameters, offering a practical and accurate solution for polarization measurement. The device does not require additional detectors and allows the realization of polarimetric cameras.
Benefit
- Accurate polarization measurements
- Compact and integrated design
- Broadband operation
- High speed
- Polarimetric Camera
Market Application
Rising interest in remote sensing, imaging, and LiDAR has stoked demand for compact and high-speed polarimeters to measure polarization in incoming electromagnetic signals. However, existing polarimetric designs have significant shortcomings, resulting in bulky instruments with rotating parts. Fortunately, the unique band structure of Weyl semimetals offers new optoelectronic properties, including polarization-dependent photocurrents like the circular photogalvanic effect. Leveraging these properties presents an opportunity to develop improved polarimeters that overcome the limitations of current designs, enabling compact and direct measurement of polarization for various applications in the field.
Publications
Tian, Fugu, et al. "Weyl semimetal integrated three-unit polarimeters." Optica 9.10 (2022): 1115-1120. https://doi.org/10.1364/OPTICA.467859
Stage of Development
- Functional prototype developed
- Available for exclusive or non-exclusive licensing