Physical Optics Corporation — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: DMEA15B-001

Description

To address the DMEA need for high-resolution scintillators for X-ray microscopy, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new High-Efficiency, High-Resolution Scintillator (HEROS). This proposed technology solution is a thin-film scintillator design, which uses a high-density, high-Z-number material with high X-ray stopping power. Specifically, the innovation in the scintillator material will enable the HEROS to capture X-ray photons with minimal light spreading. As a result, this HEROS technology offers high, homogeneous image quality with resolution of ~0.5 micron, close to 10% detection efficiency of 9-keV photons, active area of 5x5 mm, and long-term operation with negligible browning due to prolonged X-ray exposure, which directly address the DMEA requirements. In Phase I, POC will demonstrate the feasibility of HEROS technology by design, fabrication, and testing of a TRL-4 prototype thin-film material. In Phase II, POC plans to further optimize the HEROS material composition and fabrication process to fully address the DMEA performance requirements, including complete material homogeneity and the elimination of defects. We expect that, by the end of Phase II, the HEROS will reach technology readiness level (TRL)-5 to -6 and be ready for initial testing in DMEA X-ray microscopy systems.