Nanomation aims to develop a new class of high-performance, low-cost infrared image sensors based on nanowire semiconductors. These sensors operate in the mid-wave infrared (MWIR) spectrum, a critical range used in applications such as industrial process monitoring, environmental emissions detection, defence and security imaging, and thermal cameras.
Today, MWIR sensors are prohibitively expensive and often require complex cooling systems, limiting their use to specialist markets. Nanomation will broaden the availability of MWIR sensing by developing novel sensors that can operate at room temperature and be manufactured at much lower cost using a scalable and adaptable process. This innovation is based on the integration of compound semiconductor nanowires (InAs), onto glass substrates, using a back-end-of-line (BEOL) process compatible with existing semiconductor manufacturing. This technology can be integrated with widely available electronics, helping reduce costs and increase production efficiency.
This project will deliver a detailed technical datasheet of a nanowire-based MWIR sensor prototype. This output will allow Nanomation to begin commercial engagements with sensor manufacturers and industrial partners in sectors such as defence, environmental monitoring, and advanced manufacturing.
By developing this platform, Nanomation is helping to establish the UK's capability in next-generation sensor manufacturing. The project supports wider government goals around advanced semiconductor development, supply chain resilience, and sustainability. Sensors will also play a critical role in combating climate change through methane leak detection, helping industry meet emissions targets.
The technology also opens the door to future applications in transparent or dual-band sensors, flexible imaging surfaces, and other emerging fields such as biosensing and photonics. The project will be delivered over a six-month period, laying the foundation for future growth, job creation, and UK leadership in semiconductor innovation.