Nanostructure based multifunctional flexible colour filter

Purpose and goal

The initial objectives of the project were to develop RGB color filters based on silicon nanopillar assemblies and to verify their commercialization in display and image sensor applications. Stand-alone filters were demonstrated. There is interest from image sensor manufacturers, but requires full validation including manufacturing in a CMOS foundry. In another track, wavelength selective IR filters were investigated which has led to a cooperation with a company dealing with IR cameras.

Expected results and effects

Stand-alone RGB filters based on Si nanopillars were demonstrated. However, for the technology to be competitive and commercially attractive, the filter performance characteristics have to be improved, and manufacturing in a CMOS setting has to be demonstrated. The investigations made on wavelength selective IR filters show niche opportunities in gas sensing (environment and industrial monitoring) and will be pursued via a cooperation initiated with a company dealing with IR cameras.

Planned approach and implementation

The technical and commercial verification activities were continuously analyzed. Regarding the RGB filter technology based on Si nanopillars, several image sensor and display manufacturers and CMOS foundries were contacted. Analyses indicate that significant improvements in filter performances are necessary to make them competitive and commercially attractive. The investigations on IR filters for gas sensing are most promising and resulted in cooperation with a company dealing with IR cameras.