Achieving High Mid‐IR Bolometric Responsivity for Anisotropic Composite Materials from Carbon Nanotubes and Polymers

• DOI: 10.1002/adfm.201102597
• Publication Date: 2012-02-27T08:32:10Z
• Authors: Alexander Y. Glam...; Victor. A. Karach...; William B. Euler; Igor A. Levitsky
• Keywords: Atmospheric temperature range

Abstract An anisotropic carbon nanotube (CNT)‐polymer composite for bolometric applications in the mid‐IR spectral range (2.5–20 μm) is studied. Composite alignment conjunction with non‐uniform distribution of CNTs polymer matrix allows a significant enhancement temperature coefficient resistance (0.82% K −1 ) respect to uniform (0.24% ). As result responsivity ≈ 500 V W reached, which highest CNT‐based bolometers reported date. Such remarkable optical and thermal characteristics are explained terms fluctuation tunneling theory taking into account anisotropy gradient CNT concentration. Flatness photoresponse broad enhanced provide great potential use such novel IR spectroscopy imaging.