Recent improvements in the pyroelectric vidicon

Summary form only given. The purpose of this work is to explore the feasibility of a low cost, uncooled, medium performance thermal imaging system for use in the 8-14μm electromagnetic spectral band. An imaging device having the potential of fullfilling the above requirements is the pyroelectric vidicon. The pyroelectric vidicon thermal imaging system has been described in the literature and therefore the principles of operation will be only briefly reviewed. This paper will present the results of work performed at NVL regarding the effect of key parameters on pyroelectric vidicon performance. Recent advances described will include the use of various thin dielectric films evaporated onto the pyroelectric retina to buffer against the electron and residual ionized gas bombardment which usually erodes the surface. The film will minimize or eliminate fixed pattern noise due to crystal imperfections. Improvements in processing to prolong cathode or vidicon life are discussed. Certain pyroelectric polymers are described which improve the thermal and spatial resolution relative to that which is achieved with triglycine sulphate as the retina material. In conclusion a short movie will be shown demonstrating state of the art pyroelectric vidicon performance.