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At least 55 records · Page 3
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS2017

Design and Optimization of Multi-Pixel Transition-Edge Sensors for X-Ray Astronomy Applications

Multi-pixel transition-edge sensors (TESs), commonly referred to as 'hydras', are a type of position sensitive micro-calorimeter that enables very large format arrays to be designed without commensurate increase in the number of readout channels and associated wiring. In the hydra design, a single TES is coupled to discrete absorbers via varied thermal links. The links act as low pass thermal filters that are tuned to give a different characteristic pulse shape for x-ray photons absorbed in each of the hydra sub pixels. In this contribution we report on the experimental results from hydras consisting of up to 20 pixels per TES. We discuss the design trade-offs between energy resolution, position discrimination and number of pixels and investigate future design optimizations specifically targeted at meeting the readout technology considered for Lynx.

Smith, Stephen J.↗
DOE OSTI2020

Development of Transition-Edge Sensor X-ray Microcalorimeter Linear Array for Compton Scattering and Energy Dispersive Diffraction Imaging

In this paper we present a strip transition-edge sensor microcalorimeter linear array detector developed for energy dispersive X-ray diffraction imaging and Compton scattering applications. The prototype detector is an array of 20 transition-edge sensors with absorbers in strip geometry arranged in a linear array. We discuss the fabrication steps needed to develop this array including Mo/Cu bilayer, Au electroplating, and proofof-principle fabrication of long strips of SiNx membranes. We demonstrate minimal unwanted effect of strip geometry on X-ray pulse response and showlinear relationship of 1/pulse height and pulse decay times with absorber length. For the absorber lengths studied, our preliminary measurements show energy resolutions of 40-180eV near 17 keV. Furthermore, we show that the heat flow to the cold bath is nearly independent of the absorber area and depends on the SiNx membrane geometry.

47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION↗
DOE OSTI2019

Modelling a Transition-Edge Sensor X-Ray Microcalorimeter Linear Array for Compton Profile Measurements and Energy Dispersive Diffraction

Transition-edge sensors (TES) are a type of superconducting detector that offers high energy resolution based on their sharp resistance-temperature feature in the superconducting-to-normal transition. TES X-ray microcalorimeters have typically been designed and used for spectroscopic applications. In this work, we present a design optimization for a TES X-ray microcalorimeter array for high-energy scattering and diffraction measurements. Specifically, Compton scattering provides information about the electron momentum distribution, while energy dispersive diffraction provides structural information about dense engineering materials. Compton scattering and energy dispersive diffraction experiments must be conducted in the very hard X-ray regime (~100 keV), demanding a high X-ray stopping power in the detector; therefore, an absorber with a large heat capacity is needed in conjunction with the TES. In addition, both applications would benefit from an array composed of parallel strips. We propose a design for a TES X-ray microcalorimeter optimized for such applications. In particular, we model the longitudinal position dependence due to the finite thermal diffusion time in the absorber.

47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION↗
NASA NTRS2014

The Magnetically-Tuned Transition-Edge Sensor

We present the first measurements on the proposed magnetically-tuned superconducting transition-edge sensor (MTES) and compare the modified resistive transition with the theoretical prediction. A TES's resistive transition is customarily characterized in terms of the unit less device parameters alpha and beta corresponding to the resistive response to changes in temperature and current respectively. We present a new relationship between measured IV quantities and the parameters alpha and beta and use these relations to confirm we have stably biased a TES with negative beta parameter with magnetic tuning. Motivated by access to this new unexplored parameter space, we investigate the conditions for bias stability of a TES taking into account both self and externally applied magnetic fields.

Sadleir, John E.↗
NASA NTRS2012

Fabrication of Microstripline Wiring for Large Format Transition Edge Sensor Arrays

We have developed a process to integrate microstripline wiring with transition edge sensors (TES). The process includes additional layers for metal-etch stop and dielectric adhesion to enable recovery of parameters achieved in non-microstrip pixel designs. We report on device parameters in close-packed TES arrays achieved with the microstrip process including R(sub n), G, and T(sub c) uniformity. Further, we investigate limits of this method of producing high-density, microstrip wiring including critical current to determine the ultimate scalability of TES arrays with two layers of wiring.

Chervenak, James A.↗
NASA NTRS2000

Progress in the Development of Mo-Au Transition-Edge Sensors for X-Ray Spectroscopy

X-ray microcalorimeters using transition-edge sensors (TES) show great promise for use in astronomical x-ray spectroscopy. We have obtained very high energy resolution (2.8 electronvolts at 1.5 kiloelectronvolts and 3.7 electronvolts at 3.3 kiloelectronvolts) in a large, isolated TES pixel using a Mo/Au proximity-effect bilayer on a silicon nitride membrane. We will discuss the performance and our characterization of that device. In order to be truly suitable for use behind an x-ray telescope, however, such devices need to be arrayed with a pixel size and focal-plane coverage commensurate with the telescope focal length and spatial resolution. Since this requires fitting the TES and its thermal link, a critical component of each calorimeter pixel, into a far more compact geometry than has previously been investigated, we must study the fundamental scaling laws in pixel optimization. We have designed a photolithography mask that will allow us to probe the range in thermal conductance that can be obtained by perforating the nitride membrane in a narrow perimeter around the sensor. This mask will also show the effects of reducing the TES area. Though we have not yet tested devices of the compact designs, we will present our progress in several of the key processing steps and discuss the parameter space of our intended investigations.

of Magnetic Calorimeters for Applications in X-ray↗
NASA NTRS2019

Machine Learning, Markov Chain Monte Carlo, and Optimal Algorithms to Characterize the AdvACT Kilopixel Transition-Edge Sensor Arrays

Next-generation focal planes comprising dozens of kilopixel transition-edge sensor (TES) arrays require new methods to rapidly screen candidate arrays, evaluate array non-idealities in the field, identify outlier devices for removal, and optimize the array performance in the field. We demonstrate robust methods to estimate TES parameters (critical temperatures and thermal conductivity parameters) and their uncertainties using a custom Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) algorithm. We also constrain systematic effects in estimating the TES parameters from non-isothermal current-voltage curves (IVs) at approximately a ~3% level. Additionally, for the first time, we have applied Machine Learning (ML) algorithms to tune detector arrays and optimize their performance.

Maria Salatino↗
NASA NTRS2010

Development of Superconducting Transition Edge Sensors Based on Electron-Phonon Decoupling

We have successfully fabricated a superconducting transition edge sensor (TES), bolometer that centers on the use of electron-phonon decoupling (EPD) for thermal isolation. We have selected a design approach that separates the two functions of far-infrared and THz radiative power absorption and temperature measurement, allowing separate optimization of the performance of each element. We have integrated molybdenum/gold (Mo/Au) bilayer TES and ion assisted thermally evaporated (IAE) bismuth (Bi) films as radiation absorber coupled to a low-loss microstripline from niobium (Nb) ground plane to a twin-slot antenna structure. The thermal conductance (G) and the time constant for the different geometry device have been measured. For one such device, the measured G is 1.16 x 10(exp -10) W/K (plus or minus 0.61 x 10(exp- 10) W/K) at 60 mK, which corresponds to noise equivalent power (NEP) = 1.65 X 10(exp -18)W/vHz and time constant of approximately 5 microseconds.

Jethava, Nikhil↗
NASA NTRS2011

Ultrasensitive Superconducting Transition Edge Sensors Based On Electron-Phonon Decoupling

We have successfully fabricated the superconducting transition edge sensor (TES), bolometer technology that centers on the use of electron-phonon decoupling (EPD) to thermally isolate the bolometer. Along with material characterization for large format antenna coupled bolometer arrays, we present the initial test results of bolometer based on EPD designed for THz detection. We have selected a design approach that separates the two functions of photon absorption and temperature measurement, allowing separate optimization of the performance of each element. We have integrated Molybdenum/Gold (Mo/Au) bilayer TES and ion assisted thermally evaporated (IAE) Bismuth (Bi) films as radiation absorber coupled to a low-loss microstripline from Niobium (Nb) ground plane to a twin-slot antenna structure. The thermal conductance and the time constant of these devices have been measured, and are consistent with our calculations. The device exhibits a single time constant at 0.1 K of approx.160 IlS, which is compatible with readout by a high-bandwidth single SQUID or a time domain SQUID multiplexer. The effects of thermal conductance and electrothermal feedback are major determinants of the time constant, but the electronic heat capacity also plays a major role. The NEP achieved in the device described above is 2.5x10(exp -17)W(gamma)Hz. Our plan is to demonstrate a reduction of the volume in the superconducting element to 5 microns x 5 microns in films of half the thickness at Tc = 60mK. By calculation, this new geometry corresponds to an NEP reduction of two orders of magnitude to 2.5x10(exp -19)W/(gamma)Hz, with a time constant of ~130/ls.

Jethava, Nikhil↗
NASA NTRS2009

Longitudinal Proximity Effects in Superconducting Transition-Edge Sensors

We have found experimentally that the critical current of a square superconducting transition-edge sensor (TES) depends exponentially upon the side length L and the square root of the temperature T. As a consequence, the effective transition temperature T(sub c) of the TES is current-dependent and at fixed current scales as 1/L(sup 2). We also have found that the critical current can show clear Fraunhofer-like oscillations in an applied magnetic field, similar to those found in Josephson junctions. The observed behavior has a natural theoretical explanation in terms of longitudinal proximity effects if the TES is regarded as a weak link between superconducting leads. We have observed the proximity effect in these devices over extraordinarily long lengths exceeding 100 microns.

Sadleir, John E.↗
NASA NTRS2011

Ultra-Sensitive Transition-Edge Sensors for the Background Limited Infrared/Sub-mm Spectrograph (BLISS)

We report progress in fabricating ultra-sensitive superconducting transition-edge sensors (TESs) for BLISS. BLISS is a suite of grating spectrometers covering 35-433 micron with R approx. 700 cooled to 50 mK that is proposed to fly on the Japanese space telescope SPICA. The detector arrays for BLISS are TES bolometers readout with a time domain SQUID multiplexer. The required noise equivalent power (NEP) for BLISS is NEP = 10(exp -19) W/Hz(exp 1/2) with an ultimate goal of NEP= 5 x 10(exp -20) W/Hz(exp 1/2) to achieve background limited noise performance. The required and goal response times are tau = 150 ms and tau = 50ms respectively to achieve the NEP at the required and goal optical chop frequency 1-5 Hz. We measured prototype BLISS arrays and have achieved NEP = 6 x 10(exp -18) W/Hz(exp 1/2) and tau = 1.4 ms with a Ti TES (T(sub C) = 565 mK) and NEP approx. 2.5 x 10(exp -19) W/Hz(exp 1/2) and tau approximates 4.5 ms with an Ir TES (T(sub C) = 130 mK). Dark power for these tests is estimated at 1-5 fW.

transition-edge sensors (TESs)↗
NASA NTRS2011

Implications of Weak-Link Behavior on the Performance of Mo/Au Bilayer Transition-Edge Sensors

Understanding the physical properties of the superconducting-to-normal transition is fundamental for optimizing the design and performance of transition-edge sensors (TESs). Recent critical current measurements of Mol Au bilayer test structures show that they act as weak superconducting links, exhibiting oscillatory, Fraunhofer-like behavior with applied magnetic field. In this paper we investigate the implications of this behavior for TES X-ray detectors, under operational bias conditions. These devices include normal metal features used for absorber attachment and unexplained noise suppression, which result in modifications to the previously reported critical current behavior. We present measurements of the logarithmic resistance sensitivity with temperature, a, and current, b, as a function of applied magnetic field and bias point within the resistive transition. Results show that these important device parameters exhibit similar oscillatory behavior with applied magnetic field, which in turn affects the signal responsivity and noise, and hence the energy resolution. These results show the significance of the critical current in determining the performance of TESs and hold promise to improve future.

Smith, Stephen J.↗
DOE OSTI2018

Twin-Slot Antenna-Coupled Superconducting Ti Transition-Edge Sensor at 350 GHz

We have developed four-leg-supported superconducting Ti transition-edge sensors (TES) formed by KOH wet etching. Energy relaxation mechanism is changed from electron–phonon coupling to diffusive phonon after wet etching. The current–voltage curves of the same TES device were measured before and after wet etching. After wet etching, its thermal conductance (G) is reduced to 500 pW/K from 8950 pW/K. The measured effective response time (τ{sub eff}) is 143 μs, about 30 times larger. In addition, we have studied the optical noise equivalent power (NEP) with a cryogenic blackbody in combination with metal-mesh filters to define the radiation bandwidth. The obtained optical NEP is 5 × 10{sup −16} W/√Hz, which is suitable for ground-based astronomical applications.

75 CONDENSED MATTER PHYSICS, SUPERCONDUCTIVITY AND↗
NASA NTRS2011

High Broadband Spectral Resolving Transition-Edge Sensors for High Count-Rate Astrophysical Applications

We are developing arrays of transition-edge sensor (TES) X-ray detectors optimized for high count-rate solar astronomy applications where characterizing the high velocity motions of X-ray jets in solar flares is of particular interest. These devices are fabricated on thick Si substrates and consist of 35x35micron^2 TESs with 4.5micron thick, 60micron pitch, electroplated absorbers. We have tested devices fabricated with different geometric stem contact areas with the TES and surrounding substrate area, which allows us to investigate the loss of athermal phonons to the substrate. Results show a correlation between the stem contact area and a non-Gaussian broadening in the spectral line shape consistent with athermal phonon loss. When the contact area is minimized we have obtained remarkable board-band spectral resolving capabilities of 1.3 plus or minus 0.leV at an energy of 1.5 keV, 1.6 plus or minus 0.1 eV at 5.9 keV and 2.0 plus or minus 0.1 eV at 8 keV. This, coupled with a capability of accommodating 100's of counts per second per pixel makes these devices an exciting prospect of future x-ray astronomy applications.

Smith, Stephen↗
NASA NTRS2012

Multi-Absorber Transition-Edge Sensors for X-Ray Astronomy Applications

We are developing multi-absorber Transition-Edge Sensors (TESs) for applications in x-ray astronomy. These position-sensitive devices consist of multiple x-ray absorbers each with a different thermal coupling to a single readout TES. Heat diffusion between the absorbers and the TES gives rise to a characteristic pulse shape corresponding to each absorber element and enables position discrimination. The development of these detectors is motivated by a desire to maximize focal plane arrays with the fewest number of readout channels. In this contribution we report on the first results from devices consisting of nine) 65 X 65 sq. microns Au x-ray absorbers) 5 microns thick. These are coupled to a single 35 X 35 sq. microns Mo/Au bilayer TES. These devices have demonstrated full-width-half-maximum (FWHM) energy resolution of 2.1 eV at 1.5 keV) 2.5 eV at 5.9 keV and 3.3 eV at 8 keV. This is coupled with position discrimination from pulse shape over the same energy range. We use a finite-element model to reproduce the measured pulse shapes and investigate the detector non-linearity with energy) which impacts on the devices position sensitivity and energy resolution.

Smith, S. J.↗
NASA NTRS2018

Multi-Parameter Nonlinear Gain Correction of X-Ray Transition Edge Sensors for the X-Ray Integral Field Unit

With its array of 3840 Transition Edge Sensors (TESs), the Athena X-ray Integral Field Unit (X-IFU) will provide spatially resolved high-resolution spectroscopy (2.5 eV up to 7 keV) from 0.2 to 12 keV, with an absolute energy scale accuracy of 0.4 eV. Slight changes in the TES operating environment can cause significant variations in its energy response function, which may result in systematic errors in the absolute energy scale. We plan to monitor such changes at pixel level via onboard X-ray calibration sources and correct the energy scale accordingly using a linear or quadratic interpolation of gain curves obtained during ground calibration. However, this may not be sufficient to meet the 0.4 eV accuracy required for the XIFU. In this contribution, we introduce a newtwo-parameter gain correction technique, based on both the pulse-height estimate of a fiducial line and the baseline value of the pixels. Using gain functions that simulate ground calibration data, we show that this technique can accurately correct deviations in detector gain due to changes in TES operating conditions such as heat sink temperature, bias voltage, thermal radiation loading and linear amplifier gain. We also address potential optimisations of the onboard calibration source and compare the performance of this new technique with those previously used.

Cucchetti, E.↗
NASA NTRS2010

Longitudinal Proximity Effect, Lateral Inverse Proximity Effect, and Nonequilibrium Superconductivity in Transition-edge Sensors

We have recently shown that normal-metal/superconductor (N/S) bilayer TESs (superconducting Transition-Edge Sensors) exhibit weak-link behavior. Our measurements were explained in terms of a longitudinal proximity effect model in which superconducting order from the higher transition temperature leads is induced into the TES bilayer plane over remarkably long distances (up to 290 micron). Here we extend our understanding to include TESs with added noise-mitigating normal-metal structures (N structures). We explain our results of an effect converse to the longitudinal proximity effect (LoPE), the lateral inverse proximity effect (LaiPE), for which the order parameter in the N/S bilayer is reduced due to the neighboring N structures. We present resistance and critical current measurements as a function of temperature and magnetic field taken on square Mo/Au bilayer TESs with lengths ranging from 8 to 130 micron with and without added N structures. We observe the inverse proximity effect on the bilayer over in-plane distances many tens of microns and find the transition shifts to lower temperature scale approximately as the inverse square of the in-plane N-structure separation distance, without appreciable broadening of the transition width. We find TESs with added Au structures exhibit weak-link behavior as evidenced by exponential temperature dependence of the critical current and Josephson-like oscillations of the critical current with applied magnetic field. We also present evidence for nonequilbrium superconductivity and estimate a quasiparticle lifetime of 1.8 x 10(exp -10) s for the bilayer. The LoPE model is also used to explain the increased conductivity at temperatures above the bilayer's steep resistive transition

Sadleir, John E.↗