About MCT Technology

Flagship MCT Technology

 Sofradir has pioneered and manufactured advanced infrared detectors (IR) based on Mercury Cadmium Telluride (MCT) technology and Quantum-Well Infrared Photodetectors (QWIP)  for major military programs, satellite and space missions, as well as commercial applications since 1986, bringing customers a legacy in skills and experience.

Superior Performance

MCT technology has qualities superior to other semiconductor materials used to make IR detectors, notably in its ability to produce IR detectors in all wavelengths: from the visible to 1 – 3 micron (SWIR), 3 – 5 micron (MWIR) 8 – 12 micron (LWIR) and 12 – 15 micron (VLWIR) and beyond.

The key advantages of Sofradir’s MCT technology are:

• A large MCT (HgCdTe) wafer size and quality, up to 4-inch wafers, enabling larger format Focal Plane Arrays (FPA).
• A silicon-like ion implantation process that is high yield and proficient at controlling the pixel diodes and accuracy of the indium bump positioning.
• A unique hybridization technology, which is flexible and enables the manufacturing of MCT detectors, as well as QWIP detectors or even Indium Gallium Arsenide (InGaAs) or InSb based detectors.
• An ability to operate within a wide range of temperatures, from 90 to 100 K (-183 to -173 °C) for LW to 110 to 130 K (-163 to -143 °C) for MW and close to ambient temperature for SW.
• A small pitch technology for higher resolution and greater cost reductions.
• Inherent ability to design completely new customized production for specific missions.