Periodic Reporting for period 1 - TOPCL (Table-top cathodoluminescence microscope)
Reporting period: 2019-01-01 to 2020-12-31
In the project we have worked out three concepts for CL detection in a Phenom XL table-top SEM: 1) a low numerical aperture fiber-based CL detection system, 2) a high numerical-aperture paraboloid-mirror based CL detection system, and 3) a CL intensity detector mounted directly in the vacuum chamber. The fiber-based POC system has been fully designed, assembled, and tested on a variety of relevant samples. The mirror-based approach has been fully designed and all parts have been procured. Assembly and testing for this system are still in progress. In parallel, we have performed a first feasibility assessment for the direct integration of a multi-pixel photon counter (MPPC) in the vacuum chamber for simple CL intensity mapping. Each of the 3 POC table-top CL designs have potential to be commercialized and there is interest to do so and to carry on with the project. Through the distribution channels of Delmic first contacts have been made to potential customers to start generating interest and to get further input on how to proceed with the commercialization of the table-top CL system(s).
If brought to market, the systems can be employed for research and inspection of optoelectronic devices such as solar cells and LEDs, phosphors ang geological materials to name a few examples. Furthermore, the potential IP, tax-revenues, and employment associated with this commercialization could all benefit European society.