This topic comprises the concept and development of uncooled sensors and sensor systems operating in the spectral region from NIR to FIR with wavelengths between 2 µm and 1 mm including the THz frequency range. The sensors are based on the thermal transduction principle within a working temperature interval from room temperature to about 250 °C. As to the signal generation, the established thermoelectric principle is complemented by the thermoresistive principle that will be alternatively employed in particular for the radiation detection in the THz range.

As to (1), new nano-technologically based broadband absorbers, notably also in the THz range, are in the focus of interest. Regarding (2), improvements in the thermal isolation structure effectiveness of the sensors are crucial, e.g., by using floating membranes, alternative substrate and isolation layer materials, reduced structure widths and vacuum encapsulation. Concerning (3) progress in high-performance thermoelectric and thermoresistive functional materials will be beneficial.

Cooperation with DLR (Berlin) in developing a linear thermopile double array for a spectrometer aboard a Mercury mission (MERTIS) and another one with EADS-ASTRIUM-CRISA (Madrid) in developing an IR sensor for a Mars mission (REMS) are parts of our ambition to demonstrate the excellence of the IPHT thermal micro sensors by collaborating in space projects where highest performance and reliability standards have to be met under extreme ambient conditions.

In the field of precision measurement techniques the planar true r.m.s. multijunction thermal converter developed in cooperation with PTB (Braunschweig) is a currently unique device acknowledged and sold worldwide. Its further advancement is strived for by optimization in the HF range and reduction of the ac-dc transfer difference.