Beneq and Exosens Collaborate on Lead-Free MCPs with ALD, Enhancing Precision, Performance, and Manufacturing Efficiency

ALD enables lead-free MCP production with precise thin-film deposition, enhancing manufacturing yields, device performance, and lifetime value. Exosens chose Beneq’s P400A batch and TFS 500 ALD systems for their scalability, precision, and ability to support development from R&D to production.

Espoo, Finland, 06-Mar 2025 – Beneq and Photonis Scientific, part of the Exosens Group, have announced a significant advancement in Microchannel Plate (MCP) technology. This collaboration focuses on replacing traditional lead-based materials with ALD-enabled solutions, driving sustainable MCP manufacturing and unlocking new commercial opportunities for this versatile detection technology. 

Unlocking New Potential in MCP Technology 

Microchannel Plates (MCPs) are essential components in a variety of high-performance detection systems, from medical imaging and mass spectrometry to neutron imaging and scientific instrumentation. Historically manufactured using lead-silicate glass, MCPs are now transitioning to lead-free alternatives to comply with environmental regulations and improve long-term sustainability.

ALD technology plays a central role in this shift by enabling precise, conformal deposition of thin films. This approach decouples the properties of the glass substrate from those of the conductive and electron emissive coatings, allowing each to be independently optimized. The result is better performance, higher manufacturing yields, and greater flexibility to tailor MCPs to the demands of growing commercial markets.

Sustainability and Performance Gains with ALD 

ALD enables MCP manufacturers to eliminate hazardous materials while achieving higher performance benchmarks. Lead-free MCPs produced using ALD deliver key benefits, such as enhanced stability, reduced noise, lower operational voltages, and minimized power consumption. ALD also supports advanced MCP designs that maintain performance under harsh conditions and extend device lifespan by up to 10 times compared to conventional methods.

Press Contacts: Charlotte Bärlund, Event and Communications Lead , charlotte.barlund@beneq.com