Cooling-free infrared sensor breakthrough using carbon nanotubes from BITS Pilani and CMTI

Researchers at BITS Pilani Hyderabad and CMTI Bengaluru have developed a new infrared sensor that works at room temperature without bulky cooling systems. The sensor uses a hybrid of single-walled carbon nanotubes and zinc oxide nanoparticles to achieve a resistance change over 4200% under infrared light, detecting signals from up to 1.2 meters away. This eliminates the need for cryogenic cooling, reducing weight, power consumption, and cost. The innovation is significant for sectors where weight and power matter, such as aerospace, robotics, and semiconductor manufacturing. The materials are inexpensive at scale, potentially costing a few hundred rupees per sensor. The team used a dielectrophoretic assembly process compatible with existing semiconductor fabrication, pointing to scalable production. This indigenous technology aligns with India's deep-tech ambitions, covering everything from material synthesis to packaging. Applications include autonomous vehicles, industrial safety, wearable health devices, and smart home electronics. The research has been accepted for publication in Sensors and Actuators A: Physical.