Microbolometer

A microbolometer is a device that measures radiation using a resistance thermometer. When radiation is absorbed, it heats a surface that is blackened as much as possible. This causes a change in resistance in the material, which can be measured. Semiconductors (thermistors) are often used because they have a high-temperature coefficient, making the detector more sensitive. A thermal bridge with defined thermal resistance to a known temperature heat sink allows for continuous radiation measurement. Nowadays, very thin coatings with a high absorption coefficient for a wide range of the electromagnetic spectrum can be produced, making bolometer detectors suitable for detecting infrared radiation over a wide spectral range. When many bolometers are combined to form an array, an imaging measuring device for detecting infrared radiation, such as an infrared camera, can be built.