UltraQuantum proposes to develop a novel technology based on photogalvanic effect in the smart low-symmetry materials (photosensitive pyroelectrics). A Bulk Photovoltaic Effect, also called a Giant Photogalvanic Effect (GPE) was discovered in homogeneous pyroelectric/ferroelectric materials, and has proved to be efficient in the generation of high-voltage pulses (hundreds kV) as well as a DC high voltage (in contrast to traditional non-bulk photovoltaic materials that generate only low voltage). In Phase I, this new technology named PhotoGalvanic/PyroElectric Pulser (PGPEP) will: (i) be used to develop a compact electrical power source with the requested parameters (or exceeding topic requirements) for output voltage and energy, using COTS components; (ii) be validated by an experimental demonstration of the device; (iii) use accurate physics based models and simulation software for subsequent advancements that will be developed and used for optimization of the device; (iv) deliver multiple designs of the prototype system. Phase II will develop an improved power supply technology by exploring new nano-materials and metamaterials to scale-up compact size device parameters to produce >100 kV of output voltage and >5J of output energy ~10us from dormant state. The scale-up will be followed by experimental demonstrations applied to power advanced munitions and other high-voltage devices.
