Ahead of Phosphors & Quantum Dots Industry Forum, we spoke with Dr. Artem Shulga, CEO of QDI, to get a sneak peek of what we can expect from his presentation on 'X-ray Image Sensors Based on Quantum Dots' and most interesting innovations and challenges in the market that we can expect in the near future.

 Here's what he had to say...





 

Q1. Hi Artem, You will share the topic “X-ray Image Sensors Based on Quantum Dots” this year. Can you give us a snapshot of what delegates will hear? 

During the QD session for X-ray sensors, QDI systems will explain the progress made in this unique field. We will demonstrate that QDs have the potential to revolutionize X-ray imaging, by bringing higher image quality at lower radiation doses. The presentation includes the characterization of QD layers and examples of X-ray images taken by a QD-based CMOS sensor.

Q2. What do you see as some of the most interesting innovations and challenges in the market now?

The X-ray material tech is >15 years old, and the industry is seeking new technologies able to provide better image quality at lower radiation doses, with improved availability, stability, and decreased environmental/carbon footprint. As an example, the gold standard for breast imaging, or Mammography, is amorphous Selenium (a-Se). This technology still suffers from poor performance at low radiation doses, is extremely difficult to manufacture, and is sensitive to environmental conditions during storage and transport. Probably, the biggest drivers for QDs in X-ray imaging are image quality, dose reduction, easy manufacturing methods, and high stability. With an x-ray sensitivity a few times higher than a-Se, QD-based detectors overcome the challenge of inaccurate diagnosis in breast imaging. 1 out of 8 women receives a false negative, a statistic that QDI wants to improve by offering better image quality.

Q3. What is your biggest driver as a business today?

QDI has unique knowledge of depositing thick layers of QD material for X-ray sensing. We are unique in this and have our IP position built around this. Being a platform technology, QDs can be used in other applications, such as short-wave infrared (SWIR) sensors. By utilizing our knowledge of how to deposit >100um thick QD film, we have a competitive advantage in SWIR technology, where much thinner QD layers are used (<1 um). Our main business drivers today are medical X-ray, or more precisely Mammography and SWIR applications for consumer electronics, machine vision, and security.

Q4. What are you most looking forward to at the event?

As a company, we want to continue establishing a leading position in the QD market for image sensing. This conference enables this platform for us. Next to this, we are also keen to learn and network with all the great colleagues and peers present during the event.