John W Cairns

Title: John W Cairns: Innovator in Cadmium Mercury Telluride Manufacturing

Introduction

John W Cairns is a notable inventor based in Malvern, GB. He has made significant contributions to the field of materials science, particularly in the manufacturing processes of cadmium mercury telluride (CMT). With a total of 2 patents to his name, Cairns has developed innovative methods that enhance the production and application of CMT in various technologies.

Latest Patents

Cairns' latest patents include a method for the manufacture of cadmium mercury telluride. This method involves growing one or more buffer layers on a substrate using molecular beam epitaxy (MBE). Following this, at least one layer of cadmium mercury telluride, represented as Hg1-xCdxTe where x is between 0 and 1 inclusive, is grown by metal organic vapour phase epitaxy (MOVPE). The use of MBE for buffer layers allows for a variety of substrates to be utilized for CMT growth. These buffer layers ensure the correct orientation for subsequent MOVPE growth and prevent chemical contamination of the CMT. Additionally, the method facilitates device processing of the CMT layers through further MOVPE growth of crystalline CMT layers and/or passivation layers. Cairns has also patented a method for the manufacture of cadmium mercury telluride on patterned silicon. This invention focuses on growing CMT on silicon substrates that bear integrated circuitry. The process involves growing CMT in selected growth windows on the silicon substrate, which are defined by masking areas outside of these windows. The growth within these windows is crystalline, while any growth outside is polycrystalline and can be removed by etching.

Career Highlights

Cairns is currently employed at Qinetiq Limited, where he continues to advance his research and development in the field of semiconductor materials. His work has been instrumental in improving the efficiency and effectiveness of CMT manufacturing processes.

Collaborations

Cairns has collaborated with notable colleagues such as Janet E Hails and Jean Giess, contributing to a dynamic research environment that fosters innovation and technological advancement.

Conclusion

John W Cairns is a distinguished inventor whose work in cadmium mercury telluride manufacturing has paved the way for advancements in semiconductor technology. His innovative methods and collaborative efforts continue to influence the field significantly.