Polarization-Dependent Response of Single- and Bi-Metal Antenna-Coupled Thermopiles for Infrared Detection

Antenna-coupled single- and bi-metal nanothermocouples (ACNTCs) and thermopiles for IR detection are fabricated and tested. These devices comprise a dipole antenna and a nanoscale thermocouple with lead lines. Polarization-dependent responses of antenna-coupled thermopiles with various array sizes are investigated. The polarization ratios of the various ACNTC designs are found to be significantly different. We show that the NTC lead lines act as parasitic antennas, and discuss the implications of design parameter choices.