Can quantum dot SWIR photodiodes maintain performance after prolonged exposure to elevated temperatures? New 90°C thermal-ageing data from Quantum Science provides a clearer answer.
The company has achieved a significant milestone by completing more than 1,000 hours of thermal ageing on its 1550 nm INFIQ® quantum dot SWIR photodiodes, building on the 504-hour result reported earlier this year. The result extends the 504-hour milestone reported in July and provides further device-level evidence of photoresponse retention under prolonged elevated-temperature exposure.
What the 1,000-hour results show
Across the test period, illuminated current at −1 V remained broadly stable. Dark current remained at the tens-of-nanoamps level, although a gradual increase was observed.
J–V measurements taken after 329, 607 and 1,007 hours also remained broadly consistent in the reverse-bias region where these devices operate.
Together, these results show that INFIQ® 1550 nm photodiodes retained their photoresponse through sustained thermal stress.
Figure 1. Thermal-ageing performance of INFIQ® 1550 nm QD photodiodes at 90°C. Left: dark and illuminated current at −1 V. Right: representative J–V curves after 329, 607 and 1,007 hours. Device-level measurements under the stated test conditions.
Why reliability matters for SWIR commercialisation
Quantum dot technology has the potential to broaden access to SWIR imaging and sensing. For OEMs, however, the decision to adopt a new detector platform depends on more than laboratory performance.
Commercial products must operate reliably through manufacturing, integration and real-world use. Demonstrated stability under defined stress conditions is therefore a practical indicator of technological maturity.
The 1,000-hour result adds to the growing body of evidence behind INFIQ® and gives sensor manufacturers, imaging companies and technology partners a further measurable data point on which to assess the platform.
Building confidence through evidence
Discussions at VISION 2026 in Stuttgart reinforced the importance of reliability in commercial SWIR adoption. Across machine vision, imaging and infrared sensing, interest in quantum dot technology is strongest where performance can be supported by clear, reproducible data.
This milestone reflects Quantum Science’s focus on developing INFIQ® as a commercially relevant quantum dot SWIR platform: one where technical progress is demonstrated through evidence and where OEMs can assess the opportunity with confidence.
Explore INFIQ® for your SWIR application
Quantum Science welcomes conversations with sensor manufacturers, imaging companies and technology partners evaluating quantum dot SWIR technology for next-generation products.
Contact Quantum Science to discuss INFIQ® technology and potential collaboration opportunities.
Technical note: The results represent device-level thermal-ageing measurements under specified test conditions and do not constitute a finished-sensor qualification or operating-lifetime guarantee.