Laser Components

PbS Detectors

Polycrystalline lead sulfide detectors (PbS) detect infrared radiation in the wavelength range between 1 µm and 3.3 µm.

PbS detectors exhibit a higher sensitivity than PbSe detectors, by more than one order of magnitude; however, the time constant is longer. The IV-VI semiconductor PbS is a photodetector that reacts to incident IR radiation and changes its electrical resistance.

These detectors are used especially when large-area detectors are required because they are significantly less expensive than comparable InGaAs detectors. The typical chip size of LASER COMPONENTS’ standard detectors is 2 mm x 2 mm. Other configurations are also available upon request.

The fields of application are manifold, examples of which include:

• • Temperature sensors – pyrometers

• • Flame and spark detectors

• • Moisture sensors

• Measurement of coatings and oil films

The standard size of detector elements in our lead sulfide series is 2 mm x 2 mm. Other sizes, as well as elements with Peltier cooling, are also available upon request.

Compared to InGaAs detectors, PbS elements, especially large-area designs, are available at a lower price and are thus still relevant.