High-performance IR detectors at SCD present and future

For over 27 years, SCD has been manufacturing and developing a wide range of high performance infrared detectors, designed to operate in either the mid-wave (MWIR) or the long-wave (LWIR) atmospheric windows. These detectors have been integrated successfully into many different types of system including missile seekers, time delay integration scanning systems, hand-held cameras, missile warning systems and many others. SCD’s technology for the MWIR wavelength range is based on its well established 2D arrays of InSb photodiodes. The arrays are flip-chip bonded to SCD’s analogue or digital signal processors, all of which have been designed in-house. The 2D focal plane array (FPA) detectors have a format of 320×256 elements for a 30-μm pitch and 480×384 or 640×512 elements for a 20-μm pitch. Typical operating temperatures are around 77–85 K. Five years ago SCD began to develop a new generation of MWIR detectors based on the epitaxial growth of antimonide based compound semiconductors (ABCS). This ABCS technology allows band-gap engineering of the detection material which enables higher operating temperatures and multi-spectral detection. This year SCD presented its first prototype FPA from this program, an InAlSb based detector operating at a temperature of 100 K. By the end of this year SCD will introduce the first prototype MWIR detector with a 640×512 element format and a pitch of 15 μm. For the LWIR wavelength range SCD manufactures both linear Hg_1−xCd_xTe (MCT) detectors with a line of 250 elements and time delay and integration (TDI) detectors with formats of 288×4 and 480×6. Recently, SCD has demonstrated its first prototype uncooled detector which is based on VO_x technology and which has a format of 384×288 elements, a pitch of 25 μm, and a typical NETD of 50 mK at F/1. In this paper, we describe the present technologies and products of SCD and the future evolution of our detectors for the MWIR and LWIR detection. The paper presented there appears in Infrared Photoelectronics, edited by Antoni Rogalski, Eustace L. Dereniak, Fiodor F. Sizov, Proc. SPIE Vol. 5957, 59570S (2005).     

On “Gauge Renormalization” in Classical Electrodynamics

In this paper we pay attention to the inconsistency in the derivation of the symmetric electromagnetic energy–momentum tensor for a system of charged particles from its canonical form, when the homogeneous Maxwell’s equations are applied to the symmetrizing gauge transformation, while the non-homogeneous Maxwell’s equations are used to obtain the motional equation. Applying the appropriate non-homogeneous Maxwell’s equations to both operations, we obtained an additional symmetric term in the tensor, named as “compensating term”. Analyzing the structure of this “compensating term”, we suggested a method of “gauge renormalization”, which allows transforming the divergent terms of classical electrodynamics (infinite self-force, self-energy and self-momentum) to converging integrals. The motional equation obtained for a non-radiating charged particle does not contain its self-force, and the mass parameter includes the sum of mechanical and electromagnetic masses. The motional equation for a radiating particle also contains the sum of mechanical and electromagnetic masses, and does not yield any “runaway solutions”. It has been shown that the energy flux in a free electromagnetic field is guided by the Poynting vector, whereas the energy flux in a bound EM field is described by the generalized Umov’s vector, defined in the paper. The problem of electromagnetic momentum is also examined.     

Acoustic meta-materials in MEMS BAW resonators

This paper presents a meta-material-based design method for bulk acoustic wave (BAW) resonators with enhanced characteristics compared to those obtained with the typical bulk material implementation. We demonstrate the novel use of empty inclusions (i.e., ‘holes’) in bulk materials for engineering their acoustic (mechanical) properties (e.g. Young’s modulus E, Poisson’s ratio ν and mass density ρ) to tune and achieve optimal acoustical performance/characteristics. Inclusions have been demonstrated before to produce phononic band gaps for wave trapping. We focus on the propagation characteristics of the meta-materials brought into being by these inclusions. We implement patterns of holes with different sizes and distributions, to effectively scatter acoustic waves in bar-type BAW resonators and to devise the desired resonator properties, e.g., the resonant frequency. While the available bulk material is homogeneous and isotropic, the bar consists of an equivalent non-homogeneous material that can for example be distributed by design in order to shrink the overall resonator size, enhance electromechanical transduction coefficients or reject spurious modes. Our paper compares two extraction methods for the equivalent material properties of a periodically hole-punched material: the steady-state mechanical simulation of a unit cell and its ‘phase delay’ counterpart. We discuss their validity and practical use for the design of bar resonators.     

Field theoretic calculation of energy cascade rates in non-helical magnetohydrodynamic turbulence

Energy cascade rates and Kolmogorov’s constant for non-helical steady magnetohydrodynamic turbulence have been calculated by solving the flux equations to the first order in perturbation. For zero cross helicity and space dimensiond = 3, magnetic energy cascades from large length-scales to small length-scales (forward cascade). In addition, there are energy fluxes from large-scale magnetic field to small-scale velocity field, large-scale velocity field to small-scale magnetic field, and large-scale velocity field to large-scale magnetic field. Kolmogorov’s constant for magnetohydrodynamics is approximately equal to that for fluid turbulence (≈ 1.6) for Alfvén ratio 05 ≤r _A ≤ ∞. For higher space-dimensions, the energy fluxes are qualitatively similar, and Kolmogorov’s constant varies asd ^1/3. For the normalized cross helicity σ_c →1, the cascade rates are proportional to (1 − σ_c)/(1 + σ_c , and the Kolmogorov’s constants vary significantly with σ_cc.     

Some Exact Bianchi Type-V Perfect Fluid Cosmological Models with Heat Flow and Decaying Vacuum Energy Density Λ: Expressions for Some Observable Quantities

In this paper we have obtained some new exact solutions of Einstein’s field equations in a spatially homogeneous and anisotropic Bianchi type-V space-time with perfect fluid distribution along with heat-conduction and decaying vacuum energy density Λ by applying the variation law for generalized Hubble’s parameter that yields a constant value of deceleration parameter. We find that the constant value of deceleration parameter is reasonable for the present day universe. The variation law for Hubble’s parameter generates two types of solutions for the average scale factor, one is of power-law type and other is of the exponential form. Using these two forms, Einstein’s field equations are solved separately that correspond to expanding singular and non-singular models of the universe respectively. The cosmological constant Λ is found to be a decreasing function of time and positive which is corroborated by results from recent supernovae Ia observations. Expressions for look-back time-redshift, neoclassical tests (proper distance d(z)), luminosity distance red-shift and event horizon are derived and their significance are described in detail. The physical and geometric properties of spatially homogeneous and anisotropic cosmological models are discussed.     

Results from Super-Kamiokande and K2K

Results from Super-Kamiokande-I’s entire 1496 live days of solar neutrino data are presented, including the absolute flux, energy spectrum, zenith angle (day/night) and seasonal variation. The possibility of MSW and vacuum oscillations is discussed in light of these results. Results from the first 1289 days of Super-K-I’s atmospheric neutrino analysis are also presented, including the evidence for ν_μ →ν _τ oscillations, against ν_μ → ν_sterile oscillations, and the current limits on proton decay. Finally, results based on 56 × 10¹⁹ protons on target are given for the K2K long-baseline neutrino oscillation experiment.     

Material parameters for thermoelectric performance

The thermoelectric performance of a thermoelement is ideally defined in terms of the so-called figure-of-meritZ = α²σ/λ, where α,σ and λ refer respectively to the Seebeck coefficient, electrical conductivity and thermal conductivity of the thermoelement material. However, there are other parameters which are fairly good indicators of a material’s thermoelectric ‘worth’. A simple yet useful performance indicator is possible with only two parameters — energy gap and lattice thermal conductivity. This indicator can outline all potentially useful thermoelectric materials. Thermal conductivity in place of lattice thermal conductivity can provide some additional information about the temperature range of operation. Yet another performance indicator may be based on the slope of α vs. ln σ plots. α plotted against ln σ shows a linear relationship in a simplified model, but shows a variation with temperature and carrier concentration. Assuming that such a relationship is true for a narrow range of temperature and carrier concentration, one can calculate the slope m of α vs. ln σ plots against temperature and carrier concentrations. A comparison between the variation ofZT and slopem suggests that such plots may be useful to identify potential thermoelectric materials.     

High resolution staring arrays answering compact MW and LW applications

This paper overviews the electro-optical and thermal performances of different types of infrared detectors manufactured by Sofradir. The detector’s fabrication processes and detector’s performance are shortly described. New staring arrays are more compact and offer system solutions required by infrared market. Special attention is directed to some reliability advantages of new dewar design. Finally, the development trends for highest resolution infrared detector are discussed. The paper presented there appears in Infrared Photoelectronics, edited by Antoni Rogalski, Eustace L. Dereniak, Fiodor F. Sizov, Proc. SPIE Vol. 5957, 59570U (2005).     

Study of the formation kinetics of Metastable phases in quenched Al-Mg-Si Alloys

The results of the experimental study of the formation kinetics of metastable phases during decomposition of supersaturated solid solutions of quenched Al-Mg-Si alloys are presented. The process has been studied by measuring the electrical conductivity at low temperatures (18–85°C) and by measuring the Young’s modulus using the acoustic method in the temperature range 120–220°C. The method of measuring the Young’s modulus is characterized by a high precision and has made it possible to distinguish between the successive stages of the decomposition due to the formation of Guinier-Preston zones, particles of the pre-β″/β″ and β′-phases. The effective activation energies have been calculated using the obtained data on the characteristic durations of the stages of the process at different temperatures. It has been shown that the activation energy of the formation and evolution of particles in the β″-phase is considerably lower than the activation energy of diffusion of alloying element atoms at equilibrium conditions, which is caused by the effect of long-lived quenching vacancies. This energy is close to the activation energy of migration of the ν + Mg complex and, according to the obtained results, is equal to 0.58 eV.     

On the <Emphasis Type="Italic">s</Emphasis>-parameterized Quantization Scheme for Dirac’s Representation theory

Dirac is the founder of quantum mechanical representation theory. By virtue of the technique of integration within an ordered product (IWOP) of operators we introduce s-parameterized form of quantum mechanical coordinate and momentum representations, which are complete. We then point out that s-parameterized representation’s completeness relation is accompanied with operators’ s-ordering, the special cases s=1,0,−1 correspond to normal-ordering, Weyl ordering and antinormal-ordering, respectively. The s-parameterized form of the coherent state representation and the entangled state representation are also derived. In our view, the operators’ s-ordering should be traced back to s-parameterized form of the completeness relation of quantum mechanical coordinate and momentum representations, which is more fundamental. Many operator identities can be derived by virtue of the above mentioned s-parameterized representation’s completeness relations.     

Early stages of laser graphitization of diamond

A mechanism for photographitization of a free diamond surface is proposed. The quantum-kinetic rate of this process is determined. The graphitization rate is close to zero if the activation energy of the graphitization process is taken as being equal to the binding energy of a carbon atom with the surface (i.e. equal to the sublimation energy of a carbon atom). On the contrary, if the activation energy is close to the energy of C–C bonds, the graphitization process may occur at a noticeable rate and be observed under ‘relatively smooth’ experimental conditions. The temperature rise leads to a considerable increase in the graphitization rates. Preliminary experimental data on the low-rate laser ablation of diamond are presented to support the proposed model of photographitization. An early stage of laser-induced graphitization in the bulk of diamond is also considered. It is found that the nucleation of a ‘tiny graphite drop’ is possible in the bulk of the diamond inside the focal area of a laser beam; the ‘graphite drop’ growth causing the appearance of mechanical stresses in the surrounding regions. The maximum size of the graphite drop is determined, which, when exceeded, leads to mechanical damage of the sample and to a change in the mechanism of laser graphitization. An evident mechanical criterion for laser-induced damage of diamond is proposed. Received: 2 October 2002 / Accepted: 5 October 2002 / Published online: 29 January 2003 RID="*" ID="*"Corresponding author. E-mail: stvn@stankin.ru     

Gravity induced particle production in earth’s gravitational field in TeV region

We discuss the production of particles via interaction with the earth’s gravitational field. Explicit calculations are done for high energy scalars passing through earth’s gravitational field. We show for example, that the width for the scalar processφ→3φ can become comparable with a typical weak decay width at an energy scale of a few TeV. (Similar conclusions can be drawn about particles that ultimately couple to some scalar field.) We speculate that similar processes may be responsible for many of the anomalies in the 10–10⁴ TeV experimental data.     

Genesis of Dark Energy: Dark Energy as Consequence of Release and Two-Stage Tracking of Cosmological Nuclear Energy

Recent observations on Type-Ia supernovae and low density (Ω _m =0.3) measurement of matter including dark matter suggest that the present-day universe consists mainly of repulsive-gravity type ‘exotic matter’ with negative-pressure often said ‘dark energy’ (Ω _x =0.7). But the nature of dark energy is mysterious and its puzzling questions, such as why, how, where and when about the dark energy, are intriguing. In the present paper the authors attempt to answer these questions while making an effort to reveal the genesis of dark energy and suggest that ‘the cosmological nuclear binding energy liberated during primordial nucleo-synthesis remains trapped for a long time and then is released free which manifests itself as dark energy in the universe’. It is also explained why for dark energy the parameter w=-\frac23w=-\frac{2}{3} . Noting that w=1 for stiff matter and w=\frac13w=\frac{1}{3} for radiation; w=-\frac23w=-\frac{2}{3} is for dark energy because “−1” is due to ‘deficiency of stiff-nuclear-matter’ and that this binding energy is ultimately released as ‘radiation’ contributing “ +\frac13+\frac{1}{3} ”, making w=-1+\frac13=-\frac23w=-1+\frac{1}{3}=-\frac{2}{3} . When dark energy is released free at Z=80, w=-\frac23w=-\frac{2}{3} . But as on present day at Z=0 when the radiation-strength-fraction (δ), has diminished to δ→0, the w=-1+d\frac13=-1w=-1+\delta\frac{1}{3}=-1 . This, almost solves the dark-energy mystery of negative pressure and repulsive-gravity. The proposed theory makes several estimates/predictions which agree reasonably well with the astrophysical constraints and observations. Though there are many candidate-theories, the proposed model of this paper presents an entirely new approach (cosmological nuclear energy) as a possible candidate for dark energy.     

Cosmological γ-ray bursts from a neutron star collapse induced by a primordial black hole

A detailed analysis is presented for a novel scenario in which gamma-ray bursts are of intergalactic origin and arise from the induced collapse of an isolated neutron star triggered by a primordial black hole. The energy released from the phase transition of accreted nucleon matter into a quark-gluon plasma is transferred by degenerate neutrinos to the star’s surface, where neutrinos annihilate into an electron-positron plasma and produce an inverted temperature layer that preserves a fire-ball from undue baryonic pollution. Possible observational tests include the absence of apparent cosmological time dilation, the location of γ-ray bursts primarily outside of galaxies, a specific shape of the log N-log S curve, with a large peak near red shift z∼10, the emission of ∼10⁻³ of the total energy in the form of 100-GeV photons, a bimodal distribution of durations, a very weak accompanying pulse of gravitational radiation, etc. Pis’ma Zh. éksp. Teor. Fiz. 70, No. 10, 642–647 (25 November 1999) Published in English in the original Russian journal. Edited by Steve Torstveit.     

Vector mesons in matter

One consequence of the chiral restoration is the mixing of parity partners. We look for a possible signature of the mixing of vector and axial vector mesons in heavyion collisions. We suggest an experimental method for its observation. The dynamical evolution of the heavy-ion collision is described by a transport equation of QMD-type evolving nucleons,N* and Δ resonances, Λ’s and gS baryons, and furthermore,π’s,η’sρ’sσ’sΩ’s and kaons with their isospin degrees of freedom. The input cross-sections and resonance parameters of the model are fitted to the available nucleon-nucleon and pion-nucleon cross-sections     

Spherically symmetric static solutions of the Einstein-Maxwell equations

We report a new formalism to obtain solutions of Einstein-Maxwell’s equations for static spheres assuming the matter content to be a charged perfect fluid of null-conductivity. Defining three new variablesu=4πεr ²,ν=4πpr ^{2 2} andw=(4π/3)(ρ+ε)r ² whereε, ρ andε denote respectively energy densities of the electric, matter and free gravitational fields whereasp is the fluid pressure, Einstein’s field equations are rewritten in an elegant form. The solutions given by Bonnor [1], Nduka [2], Cooperstock and De la Cruz [3], Mehra [4], Tikekar [5,6], Xingxiang [7], Patino and Rago [8] are all shown to possess simple relations betweenu, v, andw whereas Pant and Sah’s [9] solution for which all the three functions,u, v, andw are constants is a trivial case of the present formalism, We have presented six new solutions with ε = 2ρ. For the first three solutionsw andu are constants withv as a variable whereas the remaining three solutions satisfy the equation of state for isothermal gas;v =kw =-ku where (i)k is an arbitrary constant but not equal to 1 or 1/3 (ii)k = 1 and (iii)k = 1/3. We also obtained a generalization of Cooperstock and De la Cruz’s [3] solution which is regular for 2ρ > ε but singular for 2ρ ≤ ε.     

A new method for the analysis of transmission property in carbon nanotubes using Green’s function

A new method for the analysis of electron transmission property in single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) using Green’s function is presented in this paper for the first time. Using the proposed method, a new relation for the transmission function through a deformed SWCNT is obtained, which depends on the energy variations and the coupling matrices related to the mechanical deformations applied to the structure of CNT. The obtained new relation is explained by the presented results in the literature.     

Conformal invariance and scalar-tensor theories

A new generalisation of Einstein’s theory is proposed which is invariant under conformal mappings. Two scalar fields are introduced in addition to the metric tensor field, so that two special choices of gauge are available for physical interpretation, the ‘Einstein gauge’ and the ‘atomic gauge’. The theory is not unique but contains two adjustable parameters ζ anda. Witha=1 the theory viewed from the atomic gauge is Brans-Dicke theory (ω=−3/2+ζ/4). Any other choice ofa leads to a creation-field theory. In particular the theory given by the choicea=−3 possesses a cosmological solution satisfying Dirac’s ‘large numbers’ hypothesis.     

Dark Energy Models with Variable Equation of State Parameter

The dark energy models with variable equation of state parameter ω are investigated by using law of variation of Hubble’s parameter that yields the constant value of deceleration parameter. Here the equation of state parameter ω is found to be time dependent and its existing range for this model is consistent with the recent observations of SN Ia data, SN Ia data (with CMBR anisotropy) and galaxy clustering statistics. The physical significance of the dark energy models have also been discussed.