High temperature superconducting YBa2Cu3O7-x transitation edge bolometers (TEBs) for infrared region

Abstract

The thesis focuses on electrical and bolometric characterization of high temperature superconducting YBCO transition edge bolometers. In this study, superconducting YBCO thin films grown on MgO, LaAlO3 and SrTiO3 substrates were first characterized structurally via x-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy.They then were patterned into bolometers and their electrical and bolometric characterizations were carried out. The results of these characterizations were fitted to the RC model. In addition, figures of merit for these devices, such as noise equivalent power (NEP) and detectivity, were measured and calculated.During this work, the patterning process was carried out by standard photolithographic processes and chemical etching. We have also investigated the effect of dimensions of our devices on the performance of bolometers. The electrical and bolometric characterizations comprised of resistance versus temperature (R-T), amplitude of response versus temperature, amplitude of response versus chopping frequency (A-F) and noise voltage measurements. Finally, the performance of our devices were compared to literature and found to be similar to or better than those of similar devices in literature.