An international team of researchers from Aalto University has developed high-sensitivity spectrometers with long wavelengths, high resolution and wide operating bandwidth, using the same detectors as microchip sizes. Research on this new ultra-miniaturized spectrometer was published today in the journal “Science”.
Spectrometers are used in industry and research to detect and analyze light. Spectrometers measure different types of light – its intensity at different levels, such as the colors of the rainbow – and are important for identifying and analyzing forms and objects. On-chip sensors will be very useful for a variety of technologies, including precision inspection platforms, security sensors, biomedical monitors, medical systems, environmental monitoring devices and space telescopes.
“Our single spectrometer is an all-in-one device. We intelligently wrap this on-chip optoelectronic lab that replaces old hardware, such as optics and machines. Therefore, our spectrometer does not require large arrays or arrays to scatter and filter light. It can achieve the same high resolution as a bench top system, but in a smaller package,” said postdoctoral researcher Hoon Hahn Yoon.
“With our spectrometer, we can measure the intensity of light at any wavelength beyond the visible spectrum using a handheld device. This device uses enough electricity, so it has great scalability and power input. Integrating it directly with portable devices like smartphones and drones can improve our daily lives. “Imagine that the next generation of smart cameras we might have hyperspectral cameras that are better than color cameras,” he added.
The reduction of computational spectrometers is important for their use in chip and applied applications. Professor Zhipei Sun, the leader of the research group, says, “Traditional spectrometers are bulky because they require optics and machinery, so their equipment is limited. There is an emerging demand in ‘this field to improve the performance and usability of spectrometers. From this point of view, miniaturized spectrometers are very important for future applications to provide high performance and new services in all areas of science and industry.
Professor Pertti Hakonen adds that “Finland and Aalto have invested in photonic research in recent years. For example, the Center of Excellence in Quantum Technology of the Academy of Finland, Flagship on Photonics Research and Innovation, InstituteQ and Otanano Infrastructure have received strong support. Our new spectrometer is a clear demonstration of the success of this collaborative effort. I believe that with further improvements in resolution and performance, these spectrometers can provide new tools for quantum information processing.
