Northwestern University scientists have demonstrated for the first time a high-performance infrared imager based on a Type II superlattice, allowing for more sensitive detection of infrared energy from the human body and other room-temperate objects, which emit infrared signals at around 10 microns.

This new device structure is capable of detecting very low light intensity with high optical efficiency and exhibits an electrical noise level 10 times smaller than the original design. It is able to measure temperature differences as low as 0.02 degrees Celsius.

Such imagers would help to reveal thermal profiles of hidden targets or objects at night, and also have potential use in medical applications where excessive heating or cooling in the body can indicate problems like inflammation, blood-flow issues, or even cancerous tissue.