Summary
In this project we develop a novel infrared camera with low noise and high detection efficiency for biomedical applications of optical coherence tomography (OCT) using quantum materials. OCT is a technique used to image the back of the eye and allow for the diagnosis of detrimental eye conditions, for e.g., macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma. It can also be used for early detection of Alzheimer’s disease. However, current OCT systems are limited by their low sensitivity and spatial resolution. To provide more precise early diagnosis of potentially blinding ocular diseases, we utilize the unique expertise of a collaborative team of researchers to develop an infrared camera with sub-micron resolution and single-photon sensitivity: design and nano fabrication of quantum sensors (Reimer), design and fabrication of CMOS electrical read-out circuits to make the camera (Karim and Levine), and extensive knowledge and research expertise in the area of OCT (Bizheva). At the heart of the infrared camera is a single photon detector recently developed through another TQT-supported project, Next Generation Quantum Sensors. This sensor is based on nanostructured arrays of tapered semiconductor nanowires and is capable to detect light with high efficiency, speed, and timing resolution over an unprecedented wavelength range from the UV to infrared, all while operating at room temperature. This sensor will be integrated into a prototype camera and into existing OCT systems to realize enhanced OCT images of the human retina and cornea in-vivo.
Figure 1. Artist impression of a CCD camera to image the eye for potentially blinding diseases. The underlying quantum technology in the camera are arrays of semiconductor nanowires with a tapered shape to detect light more efficiently at low power levels at frequencies needed to image the eye.
Related Content
Micro-Supercapacitors Based on Termination Optimized MXene Quantum Dots with Ultra-High Rate Capability and Fast Frequency Response
Micro-supercapacitors (MCs) are miniaturized energy storage devices that can enhance the performance of wearable health devices, medical implants, wireless sensors, and micro-electromechanical systems due to their fast frequency response, long life cycle, and vast temperature operation. However, to make these MC systems into commercially feasible products, necessary improvements to current MC performance are necessary, primarily […]
June 12, 2023
Inverse Photoemission Spectroscopy of Quantum Materials
Summary Quantum materials that exhibit strong electron correlations lead to phenomena, such as superconductivity and topologically protected states, that are important for quantum computation, sensing, and other applications. For example, we may utilize symmetry protected topological states to make qubits that are robust against decoherence, while advances in high temperature superconductors may significantly reduce […]
September 20, 2018
Metasurfaces for high-efficiency parametric downconversion and complex quantum state generation
Summary Entangled photon sources are crucial for quantum computing, quantum sensing, and quantum communication. Of growing importance are sources relying on spontaneous parametric downconversion (SPDC). Unfortunately, these sources of entangled photons are often constrained by momentum conservation laws. To overcome this limitation and expand the possibility of quantum state engineering, we intend to use metasurfaces […]
February 1, 2023
Quantum Material Multilayer Photonic Devices and Network
Summary Realizing highly integrated quantum photonic devices on a chip can enable new opportunities for photonic quantum computation. In this project, we explore heterostructures of stacked two-dimensional (2D) materials, such transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDC) or graphene, combined with optical microcavities as a platform for such devices. 2D materials are extremely thin and flexible, and have […]
December 12, 2019