Breakthrough: Mems UV Spectrometer Shrinks to 20mm Length

Hamamatsu Photonics Introduces UV Model of 'Micro' Spectrometer Series

Hamamatsu Photonics, a leading manufacturer of optical sensors and instruments, has recently unveiled a new addition to its 'micro' spectrometer series. The C16767MA is a UV model that offers enhanced sensitivity and improved performance in the ultraviolet range.

The C16767MA is a MEMS-based spectrometer that is highly sensitive across a wavelength range of 190 to 440nm. It boasts a typical resolution of 5.5nm (FWHM), which translates to an accuracy of ±2.25nm to 50%. With compact dimensions of 20.1 x 12.5 x 10.1mm and a weight of just 5g, this spectrometer is designed to be easily integrated into various applications.

"For example, the C16767MA can be mounted in water quality monitors, allowing for the analysis of multiple types of pollutants in water through absorption spectrophotometry," explained a representative from Hamamatsu Photonics. "It has been proven to deliver accurate results when measuring nitrite, nitric acid, and biochemical oxygen demand levels. Additionally, when measuring anthracene, the C16767MA has shown comparable results to those obtained from a benchtop spectrophotometer."

Prior to the introduction of the C16767MA, the earlier spectrometers in the micro series were sensitive to UV, but their image sensor sensitivity would gradually decrease when exposed to incident UV. To address this issue, Hamamatsu Photonics made several improvements. They enhanced the image sensor's photosensitive area to boost its resistance to UV light and optimized the shape of the diffraction grating. By shrinking the groove spacing to approximately 500nm, the spectral resolution was significantly improved. Furthermore, to prevent stray light from affecting the image sensor, a silicon nitride thin film was applied using the company's unique in-house opto-semiconductor device manufacturing technology.

The C16767MA will be showcased at Photon Fair 2023, Hamamatsu Photonics' three-day in-house exhibition held at Act City Hamamatsu. The event will commence on Thursday, November 16th, and will provide an opportunity for attendees to explore the latest advancements in photonics technology.