Sulfur-based materials for infrared optics and thermal imaging

本项目旨在研究用于红外光学和热成像的新型硫聚合物。目前的热成像透镜是由昂贵的半导体和有毒的硫系玻璃制成的能源密集型工艺。相比之下，丰富的单质硫可以转化为对中波和长波红外光高度透明的聚合物，提供了一种有前途的低成本替代方案。在开发这项技术的过程中，预期的结果包括用低成本硫制造聚合物的新方法，以及它们作为热成像透镜的应用。预计会有显著的好处，例如获得监测、诊断和光谱学所需的低成本、可回收的热成像材料。

This project aims to investigate novel sulfur polymers for use in infrared optics and thermal imaging. Current thermal imaging lenses are made in energy-intensive processes from expensive semiconductors and toxic chalcogenide glasses. In contrast, highly abundant elemental sulfur can be converted into polymers that are highly transparent to mid- and long-wave infrared light, providing a promising low-cost alternative. In developing this technology, expected outcomes include novel methods to manufacture polymers from low-cost sulfur and their use as lenses for thermal imaging. Significant benefits are expected, such as access to low-cost, recyclable materials for thermal imaging required in surveillance, diagnostics, and spectroscopy.