Low-noise 183 GHz amplifiers for meteorology & astronomy

Research Project, 2023 –

At the frequency of 183 GHz, water can be detected by sensitive amplifiers. The electronics that enable amplification are based on advanced semiconductor components. Today, diodes are used in the amplifiers. In this project proposal for an industrial doctoral student, Chalmers and Low Noise Factory AB intend to develop a transistor to be used for amplification at 183 GHz. This could make the detector system easier to construct and allow scaling up to so-called arrays with thousands of amplifiers. Since 183 GHz is sensitive to water, the detectors based on the proposed technology can be used to monitor the atmosphere from space. Collected data made possible by the amplifiers is important for understanding long-term changes in the climate. Furthermore, the new amplifiers can be used in radio astronomy to study galaxies and star formation; As an example, the well-known image of the Milky Way's black hole was made possible with technology that we intend to develop in this project. We will develop components and models to design and measure a prototype of an amplifier for 183 GHz. Testing will also be done at low temperatures where we can identify physical mechanisms that limit noise reduction in the transistor. A successful project will thus both contribute to new knowledge about semiconductor components and give us new innovation in electronic hardware for the benefit of meteorology and astronomy. Another effect of the project is that it will help Sweden develop expertise in the field of semiconductors, which has attracted a lot of attention recently due to inadequate supply chains, not least in Europe. A successful project will help Sweden to continue development and production, albeit on a small scale, of extremely advanced semiconductor chips.