Chromatic effect in a novel THz generation scheme

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Bin; Zhang, Wenyan; Liu, Xiaoqing; Deng, Haixiao; Lan, Taihe; Liu, Bo; Liu, Jia; Wang, Xingtao; Zeng, Zhinan; Zhang, Lijian

2017-11-01

Deriving single or few cycle terahertz (THz) pulse by an intense femtosecond laser through cascaded optical rectification is a crucial technique in cutting-edge time-resolved spectroscopy to characterize micro-scale structures and ultrafast dynamics. Due to the broadband nature of the ultrafast driving laser, the chromatic effect limits the THz conversion efficiency in optical rectification crystals, especially for those implementing the pulse-front tilt scheme, e.g. lithium niobate (LN) crystal, has been prevalently used in the past decade. In this research we developed a brand new type of LN crystal utilizing Brewster coupling, and conducted systematically experimental and simulative investigation for the chromatic effect and multi-dimensionally entangled parameters in THz generation, predicting that an extreme conversion efficiency of ˜10% would be potentially achievable at the THz absorption coefficient of ˜0.5 cm-1. Moreover, we first discovered that the chirp of the driving laser plays a decisive role in the pulse-front tilt scheme, and the THz generation efficiency could be enhanced tremendously by applying an appropriate chirp.

Spectral self-action of THz emission from ionizing two-color laser pulses in gases

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cabrera-Granado, Eduardo; Chen, Yxing; Babushkin, Ihar; Bergé, Luc; Skupin, Stefan

2015-02-01

The spectrum of terahertz (THz) emission in gases via ionizing two-color femtosecond pulses is analyzed by means of a semi-analytic model and numerical simulations in 1D, 2D and 3D geometries taking into account propagation effects of both pump and THz fields. We show that produced THz signals interact with free electron trajectories and thus significantly influence further THz generation upon propagation, i.e., make the process inherently nonlocal. This self-action contributes to the observed strong spectral broadening of the generated THz field. We show that diffraction of the generated THz radiation is the limiting factor for the co-propagating low frequency amplitudes and thus for the self-action mechanism in 2D and 3D geometries.

Laser-induced fine structures on silicon exposed to THz-FEL

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Irizawa, Akinori; Suga, Shigemasa; Nagashima, Takeshi; Higashiya, Atsushi; Hashida, Masaki; Sakabe, Shuji

2017-12-01

We found the irradiation of focused linearly polarized terahertz (THz)-waves emitted from THz free-electron laser (THz-FEL) engraved fine periodic stripe structures on the surfaces of single-crystal Si wafers. The experiments were performed at several wavelengths ranging from 50 to 82 μm with a macro-pulse fluence up to 32 J/cm2. The engraved structures are considered equivalent to the laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) produced by the irradiation of a femtosecond (fs)-pulsed laser in the near-infrared (NIR) region. However, the minimum period of ˜1/25 of the wavelength in the present case of THz-FEL is surely much smaller than those reported so far by use of fs-lasers and no more explicable by the so far proposed mechanisms. The finer LIPSS confirmed by longer-wavelength laser excitation by means of THz-FEL motivates investigation into the universal mechanism of LIPSS formation, which has been under a hot debate for decades.

Failure mechanism of THz GaAs photoconductive antenna

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qadri, Syed B.; Wu, Dong H.; Graber, Benjamin D.; Mahadik, Nadeemullah A.; Garzarella, Anthony

2012-07-01

We investigated the failure mechanism of THz GaAs photoconductive antenna using high resolution x-ray diffraction topography. From these studies, it was found that grain boundaries are formed during the high frequency device operation. This results in the segregation of gold at the boundaries causing electromigration of the metal between the gold micro-strips. This disrupts the photocurrents from being produced by femtosecond laser thus preventing terahertz beam generation from the photoconductive antennae leading to device failure.

Propagation of THz acoustic wave packets in GaN at room temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maznev, A. A.; Hung, T.-C.; Yao, Y.-T.; Chou, T.-H.; Gandhi, J. S.; Lindsay, L.; Shin, H. D.; Stokes, D. W.; Forrest, R. L.; Bensaoula, A.; Sun, C.-K.; Nelson, K. A.

2018-02-01

We use femtosecond laser pulses to generate coherent longitudinal acoustic phonons at frequencies of 1-1.4 THz and study their propagation in GaN-based structures at room temperature. Two InGaN-GaN multiple-quantum-well (MQW) structures separated by a 2.3 μm-thick GaN spacer are used to simultaneously generate phonon wave packets with a central frequency determined by the period of the MQW and detect them after passing through the spacer. The measurements provide lower bounds for phonon lifetimes in GaN, which are still significantly lower than those from first principles predictions. The material Q-factor at 1 THz is found to be at least as high as 900. The measurements also demonstrate a partial specular reflection from the free surface of GaN at 1.4 THz. This work shows the potential of laser-based methods for THz range phonon spectroscopy and the promise for extending the viable frequency range of GaN-based acousto-electronic devices.

THz-driven zero-slippage IFEL scheme for phase space manipulation

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Curry, E.; Fabbri, S.; Musumeci, P.

In this paper, we describe an inverse free electron laser (IFEL) interaction driven by a near single-cycle THz pulse that is group velocity-matched to an electron bunch inside a waveguide, allowing for a sustained interaction in a magnetic undulator. We discuss the application of this guided-THz IFEL technique for compression of a relativistic electron bunch and synchronization with the external laser pulse used to generate the THz pulse via optical rectification, as well as a laser-driven THz streaking diagnostic with the potential for femtosecond scale temporal resolution. Initial measurements of the THz waveform via an electro-optic sampling based technique confirm the predicted reduction of the group velocity, using a curved parallel plate waveguide, as a function of the varying aperture size of the guide. We also present the design of a proof-of-principle experiment based on the bunch parameters available at the UCLA PEGASUS laboratory. With amore » $$10\\,\\mathrm{MV}\\,{{\\rm{m}}}^{-1}$$ THz peak field, our simulation model predicts compression of a $$6\\,\\mathrm{MeV}$$ $$100\\,\\mathrm{fs}$$ electron beam by nearly an order of magnitude and a significant reduction of its initial timing jitter.« less

THz-driven zero-slippage IFEL scheme for phase space manipulation

DOE PAGES

Curry, E.; Fabbri, S.; Musumeci, P.; ...

2016-11-24

In this paper, we describe an inverse free electron laser (IFEL) interaction driven by a near single-cycle THz pulse that is group velocity-matched to an electron bunch inside a waveguide, allowing for a sustained interaction in a magnetic undulator. We discuss the application of this guided-THz IFEL technique for compression of a relativistic electron bunch and synchronization with the external laser pulse used to generate the THz pulse via optical rectification, as well as a laser-driven THz streaking diagnostic with the potential for femtosecond scale temporal resolution. Initial measurements of the THz waveform via an electro-optic sampling based technique confirm the predicted reduction of the group velocity, using a curved parallel plate waveguide, as a function of the varying aperture size of the guide. We also present the design of a proof-of-principle experiment based on the bunch parameters available at the UCLA PEGASUS laboratory. With amore » $$10\\,\\mathrm{MV}\\,{{\\rm{m}}}^{-1}$$ THz peak field, our simulation model predicts compression of a $$6\\,\\mathrm{MeV}$$ $$100\\,\\mathrm{fs}$$ electron beam by nearly an order of magnitude and a significant reduction of its initial timing jitter.« less

Optical properties of β-BBO and potential for THz applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nikolaev, N. A.; Andreev, Yu. M.; Antsygin, V. D.; Bekker, T. B.; Ezhov, D. M.; Kokh, A. E.; Kokh, K. A.; Lanskii, G. V.; Mamrashev, A. A.; Svetlichnyi, V. A.

2018-01-01

The anisotropy of optical properties of high quality beta barium borate crystal (β-BaB2O4, β-BBO) was studied in the main transparency window by using classic spectroscopic methods and in the range of 0.2 - 2 THz by using THz time-domain spectroscopy. β-BBO crystals were grown by the top-seeded solution technique in a highly resistive furnace with a heat field of 3-fold axis symmetry. At room temperature (RT), absorption coefficient in the maximal transparency window in grown crystals did not exceed 0.05 cm-1. Strong absorption anisotropy was observed in 3 - 5 μm and the THz range. At 1 THz absorption coefficients for e and o wave were, respectively, 7 cm-1 and 21 cm-1 at RT; 2 cm-1 and 10 cm-1 at 81 K. At the most attractive for out-of-door applications range < 0.4 THz the absorption coefficient is found to be very low: below 0.2 cm-1 at RT and 1 cm-1 at 81 K. Refractive indices dispersions measured by THz-TDS were approximated in the form of Sellmeier equations. Birefringence is found quite large for phase matched difference frequency generation (DFG) or down-conversion into the THz range (THz-DFG) under near IR pump at RT and 81 K. Type II (oe-o and eo-o), and type I (ee-e) three wave interactions can be realized at RT. THz-DFG of Nd:YAG laser and KTP OPO can be realized by type II (oe-o) three-wave interaction. For selected spectral ranges of femtosecond Ti:Sapphire laser efficient phase matched and group velocity matched optical rectification can be realized by another two types of three wave interactions. Accounting other well-known attractive physical properties of β-BBO crystal, wide application in THz technique can be forecasted.

Study on THz wave generation from air plasma induced by quasi-square Airy beam

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Shijing; Zhang, Liangliang; Jiang, Guangtong; Zhang, Cunlin; Zhao, Yuejin

2018-01-01

Terahertz (THz) wave has attracted considerable attention in recent years because of its potential applications. The intense THz waves generated from air plasma induced by two-color femtosecond laser are widely used due to its high generation efficiency and broad frequency bandwidth. The parameters of the laser change the distribution of the air plasma, and then affect the generation of THz wave. In this research, we investigate the THz wave generation from air plasma induced by quasi-square Airy beam. Unlike the common Gauss beam, the quasi-square Airy beam has ability to autofocus and to increase the maximum intensity at the focus. By using the spatial light modulator (SLM), we can change the parameters of phase map to control the shape of the Airy beam. We obtain the two-color laser field by a 100-um-thick BBO crystal, then use a Golay detector to record THz wave energy. By comparing terahertz generation at different modulation depths, we find that terahertz energy produced by quasi-square Airy beam is up to 3.1 times stronger than that of Gauss beam with identical laser energy. In order to understand the influence of quasi-square Airy beam on the BBO crystal, we record THz wave energy by changing the azimuthal angle of BBO crystal with Gauss beam and Airy beam at different modulation depths. We find that the trend of terahertz energy with respect to the azimuthal angle of the BBO crystal keeps the same for different laser beams. We believe that the quasi-square Airy beam or other auto focusing beam can significantly improve the efficiency of terahertz wave generation and pave the way for its applications.

Propagation of THz acoustic wave packets in GaN at room temperature

DOE PAGES

Maznev, A. A.; Hung, T.-C.; Yao, Y.-T.; ...

2018-02-05

We use femtosecond laser pulses to generate coherent longitudinal acoustic phonons at frequencies of 1–1.4 THz and study their propagation in GaN-based structures at room temperature. Two InGaN-GaN multiple-quantum-well (MQW) structures separated by a 2.3 μm-thick GaN spacer are used to simultaneously generate phonon wave packets with a central frequency determined by the period of the MQW and detect them after passing through the spacer. The measurements provide lower bounds for phonon lifetimes in GaN, which are still significantly lower than those from first principles predictions. The material Q-factor at 1 THz is found to be at least as highmore » as 900. The measurements also demonstrate a partial specular reflection from the free surface of GaN at 1.4 THz. This work shows the potential of laser-based methods for THz range phonon spectroscopy and the promise for extending the viable frequency range of GaN-based acousto-electronic devices.« less

Propagation of THz acoustic wave packets in GaN at room temperature

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Maznev, A. A.; Hung, T.-C.; Yao, Y.-T.

We use femtosecond laser pulses to generate coherent longitudinal acoustic phonons at frequencies of 1–1.4 THz and study their propagation in GaN-based structures at room temperature. Two InGaN-GaN multiple-quantum-well (MQW) structures separated by a 2.3 μm-thick GaN spacer are used to simultaneously generate phonon wave packets with a central frequency determined by the period of the MQW and detect them after passing through the spacer. The measurements provide lower bounds for phonon lifetimes in GaN, which are still significantly lower than those from first principles predictions. The material Q-factor at 1 THz is found to be at least as highmore » as 900. The measurements also demonstrate a partial specular reflection from the free surface of GaN at 1.4 THz. This work shows the potential of laser-based methods for THz range phonon spectroscopy and the promise for extending the viable frequency range of GaN-based acousto-electronic devices.« less

Longitudinal terahertz wave generation from an air plasma filament induced by a femtosecond laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Minami, Yasuo; Kurihara, Takayuki; Yamaguchi, Keita; Nakajima, Makoto; Suemoto, Tohru

2013-04-01

We have generated and detected a longitudinally polarized (Z-polarized) terahertz (THz) wave by focusing a conically propagating THz beam generated from a plasma filament induced by a femtosecond laser pulse. In the experiment, we observed a radially polarized field in a collimated region and Z-polarized field at focus in the time domain. The maximum value of the Z-polarized THz electric field reached 1.0 kV/cm. It was also quantitatively discussed about the Z-polarized field and the radial field at the focal point. We expect this technique to find application in THz time domain spectroscopy.

High-power femtosecond-terahertz pulse induces a wound response in mouse skin

PubMed Central

Kim, Kyu-Tae; Park, Jaehun; Jo, Sung Jin; Jung, Seonghoon; Kwon, Oh Sang; Gallerano, Gian Piero; Park, Woong-Yang; Park, Gun-Sik

2013-01-01

Terahertz (THz) technology has emerged for biomedical applications such as scanning, molecular spectroscopy, and medical imaging. Although a thorough assessment to predict potential concerns has to precede before practical utilization of THz source, the biological effect of THz radiation is not yet fully understood with scant related investigations. Here, we applied a femtosecond-terahertz (fs-THz) pulse to mouse skin to evaluate non-thermal effects of THz radiation. Analysis of the genome-wide expression profile in fs-THz-irradiated skin indicated that wound responses were predominantly mediated by transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling pathways. We validated NFκB1- and Smad3/4-mediated transcriptional activation in fs-THz-irradiated skin by chromatin immunoprecipitation assay. Repeated fs-THz radiation delayed the closure of mouse skin punch wounds due to up-regulation of TGF-β. These findings suggest that fs-THz radiation initiate a wound-like signal in skin with increased expression of TGF-β and activation of its downstream target genes, which perturbs the wound healing process in vivo. PMID:23907528

Aligned copper nanorod arrays for highly efficient generation of intense ultra-broadband THz pulses.

PubMed

Mondal, S; Wei, Q; Ding, W J; Hafez, H A; Fareed, M A; Laramée, A; Ropagnol, X; Zhang, G; Sun, S; Sheng, Z M; Zhang, J; Ozaki, T

2017-01-10

We demonstrate an intense broadband terahertz (THz) source based on the interaction of relativistic-intensity femtosecond lasers with aligned copper nanorod array targets. For copper nanorod targets with a length of 5 μm, a maximum 13.8 times enhancement in the THz pulse energy (in ≤20 THz spectral range) is measured as compared to that with a thick plane copper target under the same laser conditions. A further increase in the nanorod length leads to a decrease in the THz pulse energy at medium frequencies (≤20 THz) and increase of the electromagnetic pulse energy in the high-frequency range (from 20-200 THz). For the latter, we measure a maximum energy enhancement of 28 times for the nanorod targets with a length of 60 μm. Particle-in-cell simulations reveal that THz pulses are mostly generated by coherent transition radiation of laser produced hot electrons, which are efficiently enhanced with the use of nanorod targets. Good agreement is found between the simulation and experimental results.

Aligned copper nanorod arrays for highly efficient generation of intense ultra-broadband THz pulses

PubMed Central

Mondal, S.; Wei, Q.; Ding, W. J.; Hafez, H. A.; Fareed, M. A.; Laramée, A.; Ropagnol, X.; Zhang, G.; Sun, S.; Sheng, Z. M.; Zhang, J.; Ozaki, T.

2017-01-01

We demonstrate an intense broadband terahertz (THz) source based on the interaction of relativistic-intensity femtosecond lasers with aligned copper nanorod array targets. For copper nanorod targets with a length of 5 μm, a maximum 13.8 times enhancement in the THz pulse energy (in ≤20 THz spectral range) is measured as compared to that with a thick plane copper target under the same laser conditions. A further increase in the nanorod length leads to a decrease in the THz pulse energy at medium frequencies (≤20 THz) and increase of the electromagnetic pulse energy in the high-frequency range (from 20–200 THz). For the latter, we measure a maximum energy enhancement of 28 times for the nanorod targets with a length of 60 μm. Particle-in-cell simulations reveal that THz pulses are mostly generated by coherent transition radiation of laser produced hot electrons, which are efficiently enhanced with the use of nanorod targets. Good agreement is found between the simulation and experimental results. PMID:28071764

Aligned copper nanorod arrays for highly efficient generation of intense ultra-broadband THz pulses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mondal, S.; Wei, Q.; Ding, W. J.; Hafez, H. A.; Fareed, M. A.; Laramée, A.; Ropagnol, X.; Zhang, G.; Sun, S.; Sheng, Z. M.; Zhang, J.; Ozaki, T.

2017-01-01

We demonstrate an intense broadband terahertz (THz) source based on the interaction of relativistic-intensity femtosecond lasers with aligned copper nanorod array targets. For copper nanorod targets with a length of 5 μm, a maximum 13.8 times enhancement in the THz pulse energy (in ≤20 THz spectral range) is measured as compared to that with a thick plane copper target under the same laser conditions. A further increase in the nanorod length leads to a decrease in the THz pulse energy at medium frequencies (≤20 THz) and increase of the electromagnetic pulse energy in the high-frequency range (from 20-200 THz). For the latter, we measure a maximum energy enhancement of 28 times for the nanorod targets with a length of 60 μm. Particle-in-cell simulations reveal that THz pulses are mostly generated by coherent transition radiation of laser produced hot electrons, which are efficiently enhanced with the use of nanorod targets. Good agreement is found between the simulation and experimental results.

Tailoring single-cycle electromagnetic pulses in the 2-9 THz frequency range using DAST/SiO₂ multilayer structures pumped at Ti:sapphire wavelength.

PubMed

Stepanov, Andrei G; Rogov, Andrii; Bonacina, Luigi; Wolf, Jean-Pierre; Hauri, Christoph P

2014-09-08

We present a numerical parametric study of single-cycle electromagnetic pulse generation in a DAST/SiO₂multilayer structure via collinear optical rectification of 800 nm femtosecond laser pulses. It is shown that modifications of the thicknesses of the DAST and SiO₂layers allow tuning of the average frequency of the generated THz pulses in the frequency range from 3 to 6 THz. The laser-to-THz energy conversion efficiency in the proposed structures is compared with that in a bulk DAST crystal and a quasi-phase-matching periodically poled DAST crystal and shows significant enhancement.

Ultrafast properties of femtosecond-laser-ablated GaAs and its application to terahertz optoelectronics.

PubMed

Madéo, Julien; Margiolakis, Athanasios; Zhao, Zhen-Yu; Hale, Peter J; Man, Michael K L; Zhao, Quan-Zhong; Peng, Wei; Shi, Wang-Zhou; Dani, Keshav M

2015-07-15

We report on the first terahertz (THz) emitter based on femtosecond-laser-ablated gallium arsenide (GaAs), demonstrating a 65% enhancement in THz emission at high optical power compared to the nonablated device. Counter-intuitively, the ablated device shows significantly lower photocurrent and carrier mobility. We understand this behavior in terms of n-doping, shorter carrier lifetime, and enhanced photoabsorption arising from the ablation process. Our results show that laser ablation allows for efficient and cost-effective optoelectronic THz devices via the manipulation of fundamental properties of materials.

Detecting the propagation effect of terahertz wave inside the two-color femtosecond laser filament in the air

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, J.; Zhang, X.; Li, S.; Liu, C.; Chen, Y.; Peng, Y.; Zhu, Y.

2018-03-01

In this work, to decide the existence of terahertz (THz) wave propagation effect, THz pulses emitted from a blocked two-color femtosecond laser filament with variable length were recorded by a standard electric-optic sampling setup. The phenomenon of temporal advance of the THz waveform's peak with the increasing filament length has been observed. Together with another method of knife-edge measurement which aims at directly retrieving the THz beam diameter, both the experimental approaches have efficiently indicated the same filament range within which THz wave propagated inside the plasma column. At last, a preliminary two-dimensional near-field scanning imaging of the THz spot inside the cross section of the filament has been suggested as the third way to determine the issue of THz wave propagation effect.

Femtosecond pulse with THz repetition frequency based on the coupling between quantum emitters and a plasmonic resonator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Shilei; Ding, Yinxing; Jiao, Rongzhen; Duan, Gaoyan; Yu, Li

2018-03-01

Nanoscale pulsed light is highly desirable in nano-integrated optics. In this paper, we obtained femtosecond pulses with THz repetition frequency via the coupling between quantum emitters (QEs) and plasmonic resonators. Our structure consists of a V -groove (VG) plasmonic resonator and a nanowire embedded with two-level QEs. The influences of the incident light intensity and QE number density on the transmission response for this hybrid system are investigated through semiclassical theory and simulation. The results show that the transmission response can be modulated to the pulse form. And the repetition frequency and extinction ratio of the pulses can be controlled by the incident light intensity and QE number density. The reason is that the coupling causes the output power of nanowire to behave as an oscillating form, the oscillating output power in turn causes the field amplitude in the resonator to oscillate over time. A feedback system is formed between the plasmonic resonator and the QEs in the nanowire. This provides a method for generating narrow pulsed lasers with ultrahigh repetition frequencies in plasmonic systems using a continuous wave input, which has potential applications in generating optical clock signals at the nanoscale.

Experimental and theoretical study on THz spectrum artesunate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Ai-Bing; Kong, Ling-Gao; Wang, Shi-Jin; Li, Lei; Zheng, Xiang-Zhi

2008-10-01

Artesunate is a very effective drug to treat malaria. They are studied experimentally by Terahertz (THz) time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS), and the characteristic absorption spectra are obtained in the range of 0.2 to 2.6 THz. The vibrational frequencies are calculated using the density functional theory (DFT). Theoretical results show that 0.71, 1.94 and 2.46 THz are significant agreement with the experimental results in 0.87, 1.82 and 2.46THz, and identification of vibrational modes are given. The calculated results further confirm that the characteristic frequencies come from the collective vibrational modes. The results suggest that the use of the THz-TDS technique can be an effective way to inspect for Chinese medicine.

Study on the THz spectrum of methamphetamine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ning, Li; Shen, Jingling; Jinhai, Sun; Laishun, Liang; Xu, Xiaoyu; Lu, Meihong; Yan, Jia

2005-09-01

The spectral absorption features of methamphetamine (MA), one of the most widely consumed illicit drugs in the world, are studied experimentally by Terahertz (THz) time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS), and the characteristic absorption spectra are obtained in the range of 0.2 to 2.6 THz. The vibrational frequencies are calculated using the density functional theory (DFT). Theoretical results show significant agreement with experimental results, and identification of vibrational modes are given. The calculated results further confirm that the characteristic frequencies come from the collective vibrational modes. The results suggest that use of the THz-TDS technique can be an effective way to inspect for illicit drugs.

Spectral dynamics of THz pulses generated by two-color laser filaments in air: the role of Kerr nonlinearities and pump wavelength.

PubMed

Nguyen, A; González de Alaiza Martínez, P; Déchard, J; Thiele, I; Babushkin, I; Skupin, S; Bergé, L

2017-03-06

We theoretically and numerically study the influence of both instantaneous and Raman-delayed Kerr nonlinearities as well as a long-wavelength pump in the terahertz (THz) emissions produced by two-color femtosecond filaments in air. Although the Raman-delayed nonlinearity induced by air molecules weakens THz generation, four-wave mixing is found to impact the THz spectra accumulated upon propagation via self-, cross-phase modulations and self-steepening. Besides, using the local current theory, we show that the scaling of laser-to-THz conversion efficiency with the fundamental laser wavelength strongly depends on the relative phase between the two colors, the pulse duration and shape, rendering a universal scaling law impossible. Scaling laws in powers of the pump wavelength may only provide a rough estimate of the increase in the THz yield. We confront these results with comprehensive numerical simulations of strongly focused pulses and of filaments propagating over meter-range distances.

Nonthermal response of YBa2Cu3O7-δ thin films to picosecond THz pulses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Probst, P.; Semenov, A.; Ries, M.; Hoehl, A.; Rieger, P.; Scheuring, A.; Judin, V.; Wünsch, S.; Il'in, K.; Smale, N.; Mathis, Y.-L.; Müller, R.; Ulm, G.; Wüstefeld, G.; Hübers, H.-W.; Hänisch, J.; Holzapfel, B.; Siegel, M.; Müller, A.-S.

2012-05-01

The photoresponse of YBa2Cu3O7-δ thin film microbridges with thicknesses between 15 and 50 nm was studied in the optical and terahertz frequency range. The voltage transients in response to short radiation pulses were recorded in real time with a resolution of a few tens of picoseconds. The bridges were excited by either femtosecond pulses at a wavelength of 0.8 μm or broadband (0.1-1.5 THz) picosecond pulses of coherent synchrotron radiation. The transients in response to optical radiation are qualitatively well explained in the framework of the two-temperature model with a fast component in the picosecond range and a bolometric nanosecond component whose decay time depends on the film thickness. The transients in the THz regime showed no bolometric component and had amplitudes up to three orders of magnitude larger than the two-temperature model predicts. Additionally THz field-dependent transients in the absence of DC bias were observed. We attribute the response in the THz regime to a rearrangement of vortices caused by high-frequency currents.

Production and Characterization of High Repetition Rate Terahertz Radiation in Femtosecond-Laser-Induced Air Plasma

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-03-01

nanometer, 50 femtosecond, 0.35 Watt, 40 KHz, pulsed Ti:Sapphire laser system was used as the source infrared beam. This beam was focused onto a...development of high speed THz imaging and spectroscopy systems. Until recently, the production and detection of coherent THz radiation has been both...exist a tabletop model that generates enough power at a high enough repetition rate to be feasible for most imaging or spectroscopy systems. The

Perspective: Ultrafast magnetism and THz spintronics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Walowski, Jakob; Münzenberg, Markus

2016-10-01

This year the discovery of femtosecond demagnetization by laser pulses is 20 years old. For the first time, this milestone work by Bigot and coworkers gave insight directly into the time scales of microscopic interactions that connect the spin and electron system. While intense discussions in the field were fueled by the complexity of the processes in the past, it now became evident that it is a puzzle of many different parts. Rather than providing an overview that has been presented in previous reviews on ultrafast processes in ferromagnets, this perspective will show that with our current depth of knowledge the first applications are developed: THz spintronics and all-optical spin manipulation are becoming more and more feasible. The aim of this perspective is to point out where we can connect the different puzzle pieces of understanding gathered over 20 years to develop novel applications. Based on many observations in a large number of experiments. Differences in the theoretical models arise from the localized and delocalized nature of ferromagnetism. Transport effects are intrinsically non-local in spintronic devices and at interfaces. We review the need for multiscale modeling to address the processes starting from electronic excitation of the spin system on the picometer length scale and sub-femtosecond time scale, to spin wave generation, and towards the modeling of ultrafast phase transitions that altogether determine the response time of the ferromagnetic system. Today, our current understanding gives rise to the first usage of ultrafast spin physics for ultrafast magnetism control: THz spintronic devices. This makes the field of ultrafast spin-dynamics an emerging topic open for many researchers right now.

Perspective: Ultrafast magnetism and THz spintronics

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Walowski, Jakob; Münzenberg, Markus

This year the discovery of femtosecond demagnetization by laser pulses is 20 years old. For the first time, this milestone work by Bigot and coworkers gave insight directly into the time scales of microscopic interactions that connect the spin and electron system. While intense discussions in the field were fueled by the complexity of the processes in the past, it now became evident that it is a puzzle of many different parts. Rather than providing an overview that has been presented in previous reviews on ultrafast processes in ferromagnets, this perspective will show that with our current depth of knowledgemore » the first applications are developed: THz spintronics and all-optical spin manipulation are becoming more and more feasible. The aim of this perspective is to point out where we can connect the different puzzle pieces of understanding gathered over 20 years to develop novel applications. Based on many observations in a large number of experiments. Differences in the theoretical models arise from the localized and delocalized nature of ferromagnetism. Transport effects are intrinsically non-local in spintronic devices and at interfaces. We review the need for multiscale modeling to address the processes starting from electronic excitation of the spin system on the picometer length scale and sub-femtosecond time scale, to spin wave generation, and towards the modeling of ultrafast phase transitions that altogether determine the response time of the ferromagnetic system. Today, our current understanding gives rise to the first usage of ultrafast spin physics for ultrafast magnetism control: THz spintronic devices. This makes the field of ultrafast spin-dynamics an emerging topic open for many researchers right now.« less

Construction and performance of the magnetic bunch compressor for the THz facility at Chiang Mai University

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saisut, J.; Kusoljariyakul, K.; Rimjaem, S.; Kangrang, N.; Wichaisirimongkol, P.; Thamboon, P.; Rhodes, M. W.; Thongbai, C.

2011-05-01

The Plasma and Beam Physics Research Facility at Chiang Mai University has established a THz facility to focus on the study of ultra-short electron pulses. Short electron bunches can be generated from a system that consists of a radio-frequency (RF) gun with a thermionic cathode, an alpha magnet as a magnetic bunch compressor, and a linear accelerator as a post-acceleration section. The alpha magnet is a conventional and simple instrument for low-energy electron bunch compression. With the alpha magnet constructed in-house, several hundred femtosecond electron bunches for THz radiation production can be generated from the thermionic RF gun. The construction and performance of the alpha magnet, as well as some experimental results, are presented in this paper.

Dielectric Study of Alcohols Using Broadband Terahertz Time Domain Spectroscopy (THz-TDS).

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sarkar, Sohini; Saha, Debasis; Banerjee, Sneha; Mukherjee, Arnab; Mandal, Pankaj

2016-06-01

Broadband Terahertz-Time Domain Spectroscopy (THz-TDS) (1-10 THz) has been utilized to study the complex dielectric properties of methanol, ethanol, 1-propanol, 2-propanol, 1-butanol, and 1-octanol. Previous reports on dielectric study of alcohols were limited to 5 THz. At THz (1 THz = 33.33 wn = 4 meV) frequency range (0.1 to 15 THz), the molecular reorientation and several intermolecular vibrations (local oscillation of dipoles) may coexist and contribute to the overall liquid dynamics. We find that the Debye type relaxations barely contribute beyond 1 THz, rather three harmonic oscillators dominate the entire spectral range. To get insights on the modes responsible for the observed absorption in THz frequency range, we performed all atom molecular dynamics (MD) using OPLS force field and ab initio quantum calculations. Combined experimental and theoretical study reveal that the complex dielectric functions of alcohols have contribution from a) alkyl group oscillation within H-bonded network ( 1 THz), b) intermolecular H-bond stretching ( 5 THz) , and c) librational motions in alcohols. The present work, therefore, complements all previous studies on alcohols at lower frequencies and provides a clear picture on them in a broad spectral range from microwave to 10 THz.

THz spectroscopic studies of materials using the FTIR technique: experiment and simulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lepodise, Lucia Malebogo

2014-04-01

Terahertz (THz) radiation has remained the least developed part of the electromagnetic spectrum for quite a long time and thus it was traditionally known as the 'terahertz gap'. The progress of research in this field has been hindered by lack of powerful sources and detectors as compared to both the sources and detectors for the electronic and optical sides of the terahertz radiation region. However, the research on the THz field has intensified in recent years due to a number of emerging interesting technologies and owing to its unique properties. It has several advantages over its counterparts like X-ray and hence it has attracted much interest in a variety of applications scientifically and commercially. THz work has been recently focused in the low frequency region (0.1-3 THz). This is the region where most of the THz spectral features of many materials lie. Studies in this frequency range have been seen revolutionizing the THz field giving it a pool of potential applications which are still yet to be realized. The low frequency THz region (0.1-3 THz) is accessible through the use of the THz-TDS technique and this technique is the mostly used to date. The value of this method is evident throughout the work published in terahertz research and thus its use prevails over other techniques. Many materials show some spectral features in the much higher frequency region (up to 21 THz), but however this frequency range has not attracted much attention in comparison to the low frequency range which of course is more rich in THz spectral features. Furthermore, although the low frequency THz region has been quite extensively studied, the concentration has been at room temperature with a few temperature-dependence studies mostly done at particular temperatures rather than over a wide range.

Enhancing the low frequency THz resonances (< 1 THz) of organic molecules via electronegative atom substitution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dash, Jyotirmayee; Ray, Shaumik; Pesala, Bala

2015-03-01

Terahertz (THz) technology is an active area of research with various applications in non-intrusive imaging and spectroscopy. Very few organic molecules have significant resonances below 1 THz. Understanding the origin of low frequency THz modes in these molecules and their absence in other molecules could be extremely important in design and engineering molecules with low frequency THz resonances. These engineered molecules can be used as THz tags for anti-counterfeiting applications. Studies show that low frequency THz resonances are commonly observed in molecules having higher molecular mass and weak intermolecular hydrogen bonds. In this paper, we have explored the possibility of enhancing the strength of THz resonances below 1 THz through electronegative atom substitution. Adding an electronegative atom helps in achieving higher hydrogen bond strength to enhance the resonances below 1 THz. Here acetanilide has been used as a model system. THz-Time Domain Spectroscopy (THz-TDS) results show that acetanilide has a small peak observed below 1 THz. Acetanilide can be converted to 2-fluoroacetanilide by adding an electronegative atom, fluorine, which doesn't have any prominent peak below 1 THz. However, by optimally choosing the position of the electronegative atom as in 4-fluoroacetanilide, a significant THz resonance at 0.86 THz is observed. The origin of low frequency resonances can be understood by carrying out Density Functional Theory (DFT) simulations of full crystal structure. These studies show that adding an electronegative atom to the organic molecules at an optimized position can result in significantly enhanced resonances below 1 THz.

Subwavelength hyperspectral THz studies of articular cartilage.

PubMed

Stantchev, Rayko I; Mansfield, Jessica C; Edginton, Ryan S; Hobson, Peter; Palombo, Francesca; Hendry, Euan

2018-05-02

Terahertz-spectroscopy probes dynamics and spectral response of collective vibrational modes in condensed phase, which can yield insight into composition and topology. However, due to the long wavelengths employed (λ = 300 μm at 1THz), diffraction limited imaging is typically restricted to spatial resolutions around a millimeter. Here, we demonstrate a new form of subwavelength hyperspectral, polarization-resolved THz imaging which employs an optical pattern projected onto a 6 μm-thin silicon wafer to achieve near-field modulation of a co-incident THz pulse. By placing near-field scatterers, one can measure the interaction of object with the evanescent THz fields. Further, by measuring the temporal evolution of the THz field a sample's permittivity can be extracted with 65 μm spatial resolution due to the presence of evanescent fields. Here, we present the first application of this new approach to articular cartilage. We show that the THz permittivity in this material varies progressively from the superficial zone to the deep layer, and that this correlates with a change in orientation of the collagen fibrils that compose the extracellular matrix (ECM) of the tissue. Our approach enables direct interrogation of the sample's biophysical properties, in this case concerning the structure and permittivity of collagen fibrils and their anisotropic organisation in connective tissue.

Prospects of Using High-Intensity THz Pulses To Induce Ultrafast Temperature-Jumps in Liquid Water.

PubMed

Mishra, Pankaj Kr; Bettaque, Vincent; Vendrell, Oriol; Santra, Robin; Welsch, Ralph

2018-06-01

Ultrashort, high-intensity terahertz (THz) pulses, e.g., generated at free-electron laser facilities, allow for direct investigation as well as the driving of intermolecular modes in liquids like water and thus will deepen our understanding of the hydrogen bonding network. In this work, the temperature-jump (T-jump) of water induced by THz radiation is simulated for ten different THz frequencies in the range from 3 to 30 THz and five different pulse intensities in the range from 1 × 10 11 to 5 × 10 12 W/cm 2 employing both ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) and force field molecular dynamics (FFMD) approaches. The most efficient T-jump can be achieved with 16 THz pulses. Three distinct T-jump mechanisms can be uncovered. For all cases, the T-jump mechanism proceeds within tens of femtoseconds (fs). For frequencies between 10 and 25 THz, most of the energy is initially transferred to the rotational degrees of freedom. Subsequently, the energy is redistributed to the translational and intramolecular vibrational degrees of freedom within a maximum of 500 fs. For the lowest frequencies considered (7 THz and below), translational and rotational degrees of freedom are heated within tens of fs as the THz pulse also couples to the intermolecular vibrations. Subsequently, the intramolecular vibrational modes are heated within a few hundred fs. At the highest frequencies considered (25 THz and above), vibrational and rotational degrees of freedom are heated within tens of fs, and energy redistribution to the translational degrees of freedom happens within several hundred fs. Both AIMD and FFMD simulations show a similar dependence of the T-jump on the frequency employed. However, the FFMD simulations overestimate the total energy transfer around the main peak and drop off too fast toward frequencies higher and lower than the main peak. These differences can be rationalized by missing elements, such as the polarizability, in the TIP4P/2005f force field employed. The

Monitoring leaf water content with THz and sub-THz waves.

PubMed

Gente, Ralf; Koch, Martin

2015-01-01

Terahertz technology is still an evolving research field that attracts scientists with very different backgrounds working on a wide range of subjects. In the past two decades, it has been demonstrated that terahertz technology can provide a non-invasive tool for measuring and monitoring the water content of leaves and plants. In this paper we intend to review the different possibilities to perform in-vivo water status measurements on plants with the help of THz and sub-THz waves. The common basis of the different methods is the strong absorption of THz and sub-THz waves by liquid water. In contrast to simpler, yet destructive, methods THz and sub-THz waves allow for the continuous monitoring of plant water status over several days on the same sample. The technologies, which we take into focus, are THz time domain spectroscopy, THz continuous wave setups, THz quasi time domain spectroscopy and sub-THz continuous wave setups. These methods differ with respect to the generation and detection schemes, the covered frequency range, the processing and evaluation of the experimental data, and the mechanical handling of the measurements. Consequently, we explain which method fits best in which situation. Finally, we discuss recent and future technological developments towards more compact and budget-priced measurement systems for use in the field.

Traceable terahertz power measurement from 1 THz to 5 THz.

PubMed

Steiger, Andreas; Kehrt, Mathias; Monte, Christian; Müller, Ralf

2013-06-17

The metrology institute in Germany, the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB), calibrates the spectral responsivity of THz detectors at 2.52 THz traceable to International System of Units. The Terahertz detector calibration facility is equipped with a standard detector calibrated against a cryogenic radiometer at this frequency. In order to extend this service to a broader spectral range in the THz region a new standard detector was developed. This detector is based on a commercial thermopile detector. Its absorber was modified and characterized by spectroscopic methods with respect to its absorptance and reflectance from 1 THz to 5 THz and at the wavelength of a helium-neon laser in the visible spectral range. This offers the possibility of tracing back the THz power responsivity scale to the more accurate responsivity scale in the visible spectral range and thereby to reduce the uncertainty of detector calibrations in the THz range significantly.

Experiments and Computational Theory for Electrical Breakdown in Critical Components: THz Imaging of Electronic Plasmas.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zutavern, Fred J.; Hjalmarson, Harold P.; Bigman, Verle Howard

This report describes the development of ultra-short pulse laser (USPL) induced terahertz (THz) radiation to image electronic plasmas during electrical breakdown. The technique uses three pulses from two USPLs to (1) trigger the breakdown, (2) create a 2 picosecond (ps, 10 -12 s), THz pulse to illuminate the breakdown, and (3) record the THz image of the breakdown. During this three year internal research program, sub-picosecond jitter timing for the lasers, THz generation, high bandwidth (BW) diagnostics, and THz image acquisition was demonstrated. High intensity THz radiation was optically-induced in a pulse-charged gallium arsenide photoconductive switch. The radiation was collected,more » transported, concentrated, and co-propagated through an electro-optic crystal with an 800 nm USPL pulse whose polarization was rotated due to the spatially varying electric field of the THz image. The polarization modulated USPL pulse was then passed through a polarizer and the resulting spatially varying intensity was detected in a high resolution digital camera. Single shot images had a signal to noise of %7E3:1. Signal to noise was improved to %7E30:1 with several experimental techniques and by averaging the THz images from %7E4000 laser pulses internally and externally with the camera and the acquisition system (40 pulses per readout). THz shadows of metallic films and objects were also recorded with this system to demonstrate free-carrier absorption of the THz radiation and improve image contrast and resolution. These 2 ps THz pulses were created and resolved with 100 femtosecond (fs, 10 -15 s) long USPL pulses. Thus this technology has the capability to time-resolve extremely fast repetitive or single shot phenomena, such as those that occur during the initiation of electrical breakdown. The goal of imaging electrical breakdown was not reached during this three year project. However, plans to achieve this goal as part of a follow-on project are described in this

Biomedical imaging with THz waves

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nguyen, Andrew

2010-03-01

We discuss biomedical imaging using radio waves operating in the terahertz (THz) range between 300 GHz to 3 THz. Particularly, we present the concept for two THz imaging systems. One system employs single antenna, transmitter and receiver operating over multi-THz-frequency simultaneously for sensing and imaging small areas of the human body or biological samples. Another system consists of multiple antennas, a transmitter, and multiple receivers operating over multi-THz-frequency capable of sensing and imaging simultaneously the whole body or large biological samples. Using THz waves for biomedical imaging promises unique and substantial medical benefits including extremely small medical devices, extraordinarily fine spatial resolution, and excellent contrast between images of diseased and healthy tissues. THz imaging is extremely attractive for detection of cancer in the early stages, sensing and imaging of tissues near the skin, and study of disease and its growth versus time.

Calculating two-dimensional THz-Raman-THz and Raman-THz-THz signals for various molecular liquids: the samplers.

PubMed

Ito, Hironobu; Hasegawa, Taisuke; Tanimura, Yoshitaka

2014-09-28

Recently, two-dimensional (2D) THz-Raman spectroscopy has been used to investigate the intermolecular modes of liquid water. We examine such 2D spectroscopy signals by means of full molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. In this way, we carry out a detailed analysis of intermolecular interactions that play an essential role in many important chemical processes. We calculate 2D Raman-THz-THz (RTT), THz-Raman-THz (TRT), and 2D Raman signals for liquid water, methanol, formamide, acetonitrile, formaldehyde, and dimethyl sulfoxide using an equilibrium-non-equilibrium hybrid MD simulation algorithm originally developed for 2D Raman spectroscopy. These signals are briefly analyzed in terms of anharmonicity and nonlinear polarizability of vibrational modes on the basis of the 2D Raman signals calculated from a Brownian oscillator model with a nonlinear system-bath interaction. We find that the anharmonic contribution is dominant in the RTT case, while the nonlinear polarizability contribution is dominant in the TRT case. For water and methanol, we observed vibrational echo peaks of librational motion in the 2D TRT signals. The predicted signal profiles and intensities that we obtained provide valuable information that can be applied to 2D spectroscopy experiments, allowing them to be carried out more efficiently.

Towards an active real-time THz camera: first realization of a hybrid system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

May, T.; am Weg, C.; Alcin, A.; Hils, B.; Löffler, T.; Roskos, H. G.

2007-04-01

We report the realization of a hybrid system for stand-off THz reflectrometry measurements. The design combines the best of two worlds: the high radiation power of sub-THz micro-electronic emitters and the high sensitivity of coherent opto-electronic detection. Our system is based on a commercially available multiplied Gunn source with a cw output power of 0.6 mW at 0.65 THz. We combine it with electro-optic mixing with femtosecond light pulses in a ZnTe crystal. This scheme can be described as heterodyne detection with a Ti:sapphire fs-laser acting as local oscillator and therefore allows for phase-sensitive measurements. Example images of test objects are obtained with mechanical scanning optics and with measurement times per pixel as short as 10 ms. The test objects are placed at a distance of 1 m from the detector and also from the source. The results indicate diffraction-limited resolution. Different contrast mechanisms, based on absorption, scattering, and difference in optical thickness are employed. Our evaluation shows that it should be possible to realize a real-time multi-pixel detector with several hundreds of pixels and a dynamic range of at least two orders of magnitude in power.

Phase-locking of a 2.5 THz quantum cascade laser to a frequency comb using a GaAs photomixer.

PubMed

Ravaro, M; Manquest, C; Sirtori, C; Barbieri, S; Santarelli, G; Blary, K; Lampin, J-F; Khanna, S P; Linfield, E H

2011-10-15

We report the heterodyne detection and phase locking of a 2.5 THz quantum cascade laser (QCL) using a terahertz frequency comb generated in a GaAs photomixer using a femtosecond fiber laser. With 10 mW emitted by the QCL, the phase-locked signal at the intermediate frequency yields 80 dB of signal-to-noise ratio in a bandwidth of 1 Hz.

THz-wave sensing via pump and signal wave detection interacted with evanescent THz waves.

PubMed

Akiba, Takuya; Kaneko, Naoya; Suizu, Koji; Miyamoto, Katsuhiko; Omatsu, Takashige

2013-09-15

We report a novel sensing technique that uses an evanescent terahertz (THz) wave, without detecting the THz wave directly. When a THz wave generated by Cherenkov phase matching via difference frequency generation undergoes total internal reflection, the evanescent THz wave is subject to a phase change and an amplitude decrease. The reflected THz wave, under the influence of the sample, interferes with the propagating THz wave and the changing electric field of the THz wave interacts with the electric field of the pump waves. We demonstrate a sensing technique for detecting changes in the electric field of near-infrared light, transcribed from changes in the electric field of a THz wave.

Design of a multistep phase mask for high-energy THz pulse generation in ZnTe crystal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Avetisyan, Yuri H.; Makaryan, Armen; Tadevosyan, Vahe

2017-08-01

A new scheme for generating high-energy terahertz (THz) pulses by optical rectification of tilted pulse front (TPF) femtosecond laser pulses in ZnTe crystal is proposed and analyzed. The TPF laser pulses are originated due to propagation through a multistep phase mask (MSPM) attached to the entrance surface of the nonlinear crystal. Similar to the case of contacting optical grating the necessity of the imaging optics is avoided. In addition, introduction of large amounts of angular dispersion is also eliminated. The operation principle is based on the fact that the MSPM splits a single input beam into many smaller time-delayed "beamlets", which together form a discretely TPF in the nonlinear crystal. The dimensions of the mask's steps required for high-energy THz-pulse generation in ZnTe and widely used lithium niobate (LN) crystals are calculated. The optimal number of steps is estimated taking into account individual beamlet's spatial broadening and problems related to the mask fabrication. The THz field in no pump depletion approximation is analytically calculated using radiating antenna model. The analysis shows that application of ZnTe crystal allows obtaining higher THz-pulse energy than that of LN crystal, especially when long-wavelength pump sources are used. The proposed method is a promising way to develop high-energy, monolithic, and alignment-free THzpulse source.

Radiating pattern of surge-current-induced THz light in near-field and far-field zone.

PubMed

Han, J W; Choi, Y G; Lee, J S

2018-04-25

We generate the THz wave on the surface of an unbiased GaAs crystal by illuminating femtosecond laser pulses with a 45° incidence angle, and investigate its propagation properties comprehensively both in a near-field and in a far-field zone by performing a knife-edge scan measurement. In the near-field zone, i.e. 540 μm away from the generation point, we found that the beam simply takes a Gaussian shape of which width follows well a behavior predicted by a paraxial wave equation. In the far-field zone, on the other hand, it takes a highly anisotropic shape; whereas the beam profile maintains a Gaussian shape along the normal to the plane of incidence, it takes satellite peak structures along the direction in parallel to the plane of incidence. From the comparison with simulation results obtained by using a dipole radiation model, we demonstrated that this irregular beam pattern is attributed to the combined effect of the position-dependent phase retardation of the THz waves and the diffraction-limited size of the initial beam which lead to the interference of the waves in the far-field zone. Also, we found that this consideration accounting for a crossover of THz beam profile to the anisotropic non-Gaussian beam in the far-field zone can be applied for a comprehensive understanding of several other THz beam profiles obtained previously in different configurations.

THz wave sensing for petroleum industrial applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Al-Douseri, Fatemah M.; Chen, Yunqing; Zhang, X.-C.

2006-04-01

We present the results of terahertz (THz) sensing of gasoline products. The frequency-dependent absorption coefficients, refractive indices, and complex dielectric constants of gasoline and xylene isomers were extracted in the spectral range from 0.5 3.0 THz. The THz spectra of gasoline (#87, #89, #93) and related BTEX (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene) compounds were studied by using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) in the 1.5 20 THz (50 660 cm-1). The xylene isomers, which are used as antiknock agent in gasoline were determined quantitatively in gasoline in the THz range. Our investigations show the potential of THz technology for the petroleum industrial applications.

THz spectra of cortisone and the related medicine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, Shihua; Ge, Min; Liu, Guifeng; Song, Xiyu; Zhang, Peng; Wang, Wenfeng

2009-07-01

THz-TDS are used to study four kinds of drug: cortisone, hydrocortisone, prednisone and prednisolone. The THz spectra of them are obtained and analyzed from 0.2 - 1.6 THz. The experimental results shows the four samples have the different THz spectra. Cortisone has a peak at 1.5 THz and a broad absorption peak at 0.96 THz, while hydrocortisone has a weak absorption peak that lies at 1.27 THz. At the same time the prednisone has the stronger absorption peaks than the others, and its two peaks shows at 1.24 THz and 1.5 THz. Prednisolone has a weak broad peak at 1.43 THz. The results of the theoretical calculation were performed using Gaussian 03 software with Density Functional Theory at the basis set of 6-31+G (d, p). The theoretical vibrational frequencies are compared with the experimental results, and the deviations are discussed. The THz spectra of the medicine show THz technique may be help to distinguish some different chemical bond and functional group.

State-of-the-art exposure chamber for highly controlled and reproducible THz biological effects studies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cerna, Cesario Z.; Elam, David P.; Echchgadda, Ibtissam; Sloan, Mark A.; Wilmink, Gerald J.

2014-03-01

Terahertz (THz) imaging and sensing technologies are increasingly being used at international airports for security screening purposes and at major medical centers for cancer and burn diagnosis. The emergence of new THz applications has directly resulted in an increased interest regarding the biological effects associated with this frequency range. Knowledge of THz biological effects is also desired for the safe use of THz systems, identification of health hazards, and development of empirically-based safety standards. In this study, we developed a state-of-the-art exposure chamber that allowed for highly controlled and reproducible studies of THz biological effects. This innovative system incorporated an industry grade cell incubator system that permitted a highly controlled exposure environment, where temperatures could be maintained at 37 °C +/- 0.1 °C, carbon dioxide (CO2) levels at 5% +/- 0.1%, and relative humidity (RH) levels at 95% +/- 1%. To maximize the THz power transmitted to the cell culture region inside the humid incubator, a secondary custom micro-chamber was fabricated and incorporated into the system. This micro-chamber shields the THz beam from the incubator environment and could be nitrogen-purged to eliminate water absorption effects. Additionally, a microscope that allowed for real-time visualization of the live cells before, during, and after THz exposure was integrated into the exposure system.

Terahertz (THz) Wireless Systems for Space Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hwu, Shian U.; deSilva, Kanishka B.; Jih, Cindy T.

2013-01-01

NASA has been leading the Terahertz (THz) technology development for the sensors and instruments in astronomy in the past 20 years. THz technologies are expanding into much broader applications in recent years. Due to the vast available multiple gigahertz (GHz) broad bandwidths, THz radios offer the possibility for wireless transmission of high data rates. Multi-Gigabits per second (MGbps) broadband wireless access based on THz waves are closer to reality. The THz signal high atmosphere attenuation could significantly decrease the communication ranges and transmittable data rates for the ground systems. Contrary to the THz applications on the ground, the space applications in the atmosphere free environment do not suffer the atmosphere attenuation. The manufacturing technologies for the THz electronic components are advancing and maturing. There is great potential for the NASA future high data wireless applications in environments with difficult cabling and size/weight constraints. In this study, the THz wireless systems for potential space applications were investigated. The applicability of THz systems for space applications was analyzed. The link analysis indicates that MGbps data rates are achievable with compact sized high gain antennas.

Multifrequency high precise subTHz-THz-IR spectroscopy for exhaled breath research

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vaks, Vladimir L.; Domracheva, Elena G.; Pripolzin, Sergey I.; Chernyaeva, Mariya B.

2016-09-01

Nowadays the development of analytical spectroscopy with high performance, sensitivity and spectral resolution for exhaled breath research is attended. The method of two-frequency high precise THz spectroscopy and the method of high precise subTHz-THz-IR spectroscopy are presented. Development of a subTHz-THz-IR gas analyzer increases the number of gases that can be identified and the reliability of the detection by confirming the signature in both THz and MIR ranges. The testing measurements have testified this new direction of analytical spectroscopy to open widespread trends of its using for various problems of medicine and biology. First of all, there are laboratory investigations of the processes in exhaled breath and studying of their dynamics. Besides, the methods presented can be applied for detecting intermediate and short time living products of reactions in exhaled breath. The spectrometers have been employed for investigations of acetone, methanol and ethanol in the breath samples of healthy volunteers and diabetes patients. The results have demonstrated an increased concentration of acetone in breath of diabetes patients. The dynamic of changing the acetone concentration before and after taking the medicines is discovered. The potential markers of pre-cancer states and oncological diseases of gastrointestinal tract organs have been detected. The changes in the NO concentration in exhaled breath of cancer patients during radiotherapy as well as increase of the NH3 concentration at gastrointestinal diseases have been revealed. The preliminary investigations of biomarkers in three frequency ranges have demonstrated the advantages of the multifrequency high precise spectroscopy for noninvasive medical diagnostics.

Reflective THz and MR imaging of burn wounds: a potential clinical validation of THz contrast mechanisms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bajwa, Neha; Nowroozi, Bryan; Sung, Shijun; Garritano, James; Maccabi, Ashkan; Tewari, Priyamvada; Culjat, Martin; Singh, Rahul; Alger, Jeffry; Grundfest, Warren; Taylor, Zachary

2012-10-01

Terahertz (THz) imaging is an expanding area of research in the field of medical imaging due to its high sensitivity to changes in tissue water content. Previously reported in vivo rat studies demonstrate that spatially resolved hydration mapping with THz illumination can be used to rapidly and accurately detect fluid shifts following induction of burns and provide highly resolved spatial and temporal characterization of edematous tissue. THz imagery of partial and full thickness burn wounds acquired by our group correlate well with burn severity and suggest that hydration gradients are responsible for the observed contrast. This research aims to confirm the dominant contrast mechanism of THz burn imaging using a clinically accepted diagnostic method that relies on tissue water content for contrast generation to support the translation of this technology to clinical application. The hydration contrast sensing capabilities of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), specifically T2 relaxation times and proton density values N(H), are well established and provide measures of mobile water content, lending MRI as a suitable method to validate hydration states of skin burns. This paper presents correlational studies performed with MR imaging of ex vivo porcine skin that confirm tissue hydration as the principal sensing mechanism in THz burn imaging. Insights from this preliminary research will be used to lay the groundwork for future, parallel MRI and THz imaging of in vivo rat models to further substantiate the clinical efficacy of reflective THz imaging in burn wound care.

Macrospin dynamics in antiferromagnets triggered by sub-20 femtosecond injection of nanomagnons.

PubMed

Bossini, D; Dal Conte, S; Hashimoto, Y; Secchi, A; Pisarev, R V; Rasing, Th; Cerullo, G; Kimel, A V

2016-02-05

The understanding of how the sub-nanoscale exchange interaction evolves in macroscale correlations and ordered phases of matter, such as magnetism and superconductivity, requires to bridging the quantum and classical worlds. This monumental challenge has so far only been achieved for systems close to their thermodynamical equilibrium. Here we follow in real time the ultrafast dynamics of the macroscale magnetic order parameter in the Heisenberg antiferromagnet KNiF3 triggered by the impulsive optical generation of spin excitations with the shortest possible nanometre wavelength and femtosecond period. Our magneto-optical pump-probe experiments also demonstrate the coherent manipulation of the phase and amplitude of these femtosecond nanomagnons, whose frequencies are defined by the exchange energy. These findings open up opportunities for fundamental research on the role of short-wavelength spin excitations in magnetism and strongly correlated materials; they also suggest that nanospintronics and nanomagnonics can employ coherently controllable spin waves with frequencies in the 20 THz domain.

Macrospin dynamics in antiferromagnets triggered by sub-20 femtosecond injection of nanomagnons

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bossini, D.; Dal Conte, S.; Hashimoto, Y.; Secchi, A.; Pisarev, R. V.; Rasing, Th.; Cerullo, G.; Kimel, A. V.

2016-02-01

The understanding of how the sub-nanoscale exchange interaction evolves in macroscale correlations and ordered phases of matter, such as magnetism and superconductivity, requires to bridging the quantum and classical worlds. This monumental challenge has so far only been achieved for systems close to their thermodynamical equilibrium. Here we follow in real time the ultrafast dynamics of the macroscale magnetic order parameter in the Heisenberg antiferromagnet KNiF3 triggered by the impulsive optical generation of spin excitations with the shortest possible nanometre wavelength and femtosecond period. Our magneto-optical pump-probe experiments also demonstrate the coherent manipulation of the phase and amplitude of these femtosecond nanomagnons, whose frequencies are defined by the exchange energy. These findings open up opportunities for fundamental research on the role of short-wavelength spin excitations in magnetism and strongly correlated materials; they also suggest that nanospintronics and nanomagnonics can employ coherently controllable spin waves with frequencies in the 20 THz domain.

First international comparison of femtosecond laser combs at the International Bureau of Weights and Measures.

PubMed

Ma, Long-Sheng; Robertsson, Lennart; Picard, Susanne; Zucco, Massimo; Bi, Zhiyi; Wu, Shenghai; Windeler, Robert S

2004-03-15

The first international comparison of femtosecond laser combs has been carried out at the International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM). Three comb systems were involved: BIPM-C1 and BIPM-C2 from the BIPM and ECNU-C1 from the East China Normal University (ECNU). The agreement among the three combs was found to be on the subhertz level in the vicinity of 563 THz. A frequency difference measurement scheme was demonstrated that is suitable for general comb comparisons.

Continuous-wave modulation of a femtosecond oscillator using coherent molecules.

PubMed

Gold, D C; Karpel, J T; Mueller, E A; Yavuz, D D

2018-03-01

We describe a new method to broaden the frequency spectrum of a femtosecond oscillator in the continuous-wave (CW) domain. The method relies on modulating the femtosecond laser using four-wave mixing inside a Raman-based optical modulator. We prepare the modulator by placing deuterium molecules inside a high-finesse cavity and driving their fundamental vibrational transition using intense pump and Stokes lasers that are locked to the cavity modes. With the molecules prepared, any laser within the optical region of the spectrum can pass through the system and be modulated in a single pass. This constitutes a CW optical modulator at a frequency of 90 THz with a steady-state single-pass efficiency of ∼10 -6 and transient (10 μs-time-scale) single-pass efficiency of ∼10 -4 . Using our modulator, we broaden the initial Ti:sapphire spectrum centered at 800 nm and produce upshifted and downshifted sidebands centered at wavelengths of 650 nm and 1.04 μm, respectively.

2D THz-THz-Raman Photon-Echo Spectroscopy of Molecular Vibrations in Liquid Bromoform.

PubMed

Finneran, Ian A; Welsch, Ralph; Allodi, Marco A; Miller, Thomas F; Blake, Geoffrey A

2017-09-21

Fundamental properties of molecular liquids are governed by long-range interactions that most prominently manifest at terahertz (THz) frequencies. Here we report the detection of nonlinear THz photon-echo (rephasing) signals in liquid bromoform using THz-THz-Raman spectroscopy. Together, the many observed signatures span frequencies from 0.5 to 8.5 THz and result from couplings between thermally populated ladders of vibrational states. The strongest peaks in the spectrum are found to be multiquantum dipole and 1-quantum polarizability transitions and may arise from nonlinearities in the intramolecular dipole moment surface driven by intermolecular interactions.

THz identification and Bayes modeling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sokolnikov, Andre

2017-05-01

THz Identification is a developing technology. Sensing in the THz range potentially gives opportunity for short range radar sensing because THz waves can better penetrate through obscured atmosphere, such as fog, than visible light. The lower scattering of THz as opposed to the visible light results also in significantly better imaging than in IR spectrum. A much higher contrast can be achieved in medical trans-illumination applications than with X-rays or visible light. The same THz radiation qualities produce better tomographical images from hard surfaces, e.g. ceramics. This effect comes from the delay in time of reflected THz pulses detection. For special or commercial applications alike, the industrial quality control of defects is facilitated with a lower cost. The effectiveness of THz wave measurements is increased with computational methods. One of them is Bayes modeling. Examples of this kind of mathematical modeling are considered.

Substrate Independence of THz Vibrational Modes of Polycrystalline Thin Films of Molecular Solids in Waveguide THz-TDS

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-01-01

THz-TDS technique is investigated. The sample film of salicylic acid is studied using waveguide THz-TDS on three different metal substrates and two...vibrational modes with wave- guide THz-TDS. The investigation of substrate dependence is performed using salicylic acid as the test molecule. This...Al and a self assembled monolayer (SAM) on Au. Salicylic acid is first characterized in the pel- let form and then compared to the absorption features

High-power Broadband Organic THz Generator

PubMed Central

Jeong, Jae-Hyeok; Kang, Bong-Joo; Kim, Ji-Soo; Jazbinsek, Mojca; Lee, Seung-Heon; Lee, Seung-Chul; Baek, In-Hyung; Yun, Hoseop; Kim, Jongtaek; Lee, Yoon Sup; Lee, Jae-Hyeok; Kim, Jae-Ho; Rotermund, Fabian; Kwon, O-Pil

2013-01-01

The high-power broadband terahertz (THz) generator is an essential tool for a wide range of THz applications. Here, we present a novel highly efficient electro-optic quinolinium single crystal for THz wave generation. For obtaining intense and broadband THz waves by optical-to-THz frequency conversion, a quinolinium crystal was developed to fulfill all the requirements, which are in general extremely difficult to maintain simultaneously in a single medium, such as a large macroscopic electro-optic response and excellent crystal characteristics including a large crystal size with desired facets, good environmental stability, high optical quality, wide transparency range, and controllable crystal thickness. Compared to the benchmark inorganic and organic crystals, the new quinolinium crystal possesses excellent crystal properties and THz generation characteristics with broader THz spectral coverage and higher THz conversion efficiency at the technologically important pump wavelength of 800 nm. Therefore, the quinolinium crystal offers great potential for efficient and gap-free broadband THz wave generation. PMID:24220234

High-power broadband organic THz generator.

PubMed

Jeong, Jae-Hyeok; Kang, Bong-Joo; Kim, Ji-Soo; Jazbinsek, Mojca; Lee, Seung-Heon; Lee, Seung-Chul; Baek, In-Hyung; Yun, Hoseop; Kim, Jongtaek; Lee, Yoon Sup; Lee, Jae-Hyeok; Kim, Jae-Ho; Rotermund, Fabian; Kwon, O-Pil

2013-11-13

The high-power broadband terahertz (THz) generator is an essential tool for a wide range of THz applications. Here, we present a novel highly efficient electro-optic quinolinium single crystal for THz wave generation. For obtaining intense and broadband THz waves by optical-to-THz frequency conversion, a quinolinium crystal was developed to fulfill all the requirements, which are in general extremely difficult to maintain simultaneously in a single medium, such as a large macroscopic electro-optic response and excellent crystal characteristics including a large crystal size with desired facets, good environmental stability, high optical quality, wide transparency range, and controllable crystal thickness. Compared to the benchmark inorganic and organic crystals, the new quinolinium crystal possesses excellent crystal properties and THz generation characteristics with broader THz spectral coverage and higher THz conversion efficiency at the technologically important pump wavelength of 800 nm. Therefore, the quinolinium crystal offers great potential for efficient and gap-free broadband THz wave generation.

Nonlinear THz Plamonic Disk Resonators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seren, Huseyin; Zhang, Jingdi; Keiser, George; Maddox, Scott; Fan, Kebin; Cao, Lingyue; Bank, Seth; Zhang, Xin; Averitt, Richard

2013-03-01

Particle surface plasmons (PPSs) at visible wavelengths continue to be actively investigated with the goal of nanoscale control of light. In contrast, terahertz (THz) surface plasmon experiments are at a nascent stage of investigation. Doped semiconductors with proper carrier density and mobility support THz PSPs. One approach is to utilize thick doped films etched into subwavelength disks. Given the ease of tuning the semiconductor carrier density, THz PSPs are tunable and exhibit interesting nonlinear THz plasmonic effects. We created THz PSP structures using MBE grown 2um thick InAs films with a doping concentration of 1e17cm-3 on 500um thick semi-insulating GaAs substrate. We patterned 40um diameter disks with a 60um period by reactive ion etching. Our THz time-domain measurements reveal a resonance at 1.1THz which agrees well with simulation results using a Drude model. A nonlinear response occurs at high THz electric field strengths (>50kV/cm). In particular, we observed a redshift and quenching of the resonance due to impact ionization which resulted in changes in the carrier density and effective mass due to inter-valley scattering.

Tunable room temperature THz sources based on nonlinear mixing in a hybrid optical and THz micro-ring resonator.

PubMed

Sinha, Raju; Karabiyik, Mustafa; Al-Amin, Chowdhury; Vabbina, Phani K; Güney, Durdu Ö; Pala, Nezih

2015-03-24

We propose and systematically investigate a novel tunable, compact room temperature terahertz (THz) source based on difference frequency generation in a hybrid optical and THz micro-ring resonator. We describe detailed design steps of the source capable of generating THz wave in 0.5-10 THz with a tunability resolution of 0.05 THz by using high second order optical susceptibility (χ((2))) in crystals and polymers. In order to enhance THz generation compared to bulk nonlinear material, we employ a nonlinear optical micro-ring resonator with high-Q resonant modes for infrared input waves. Another ring oscillator with the same outer radius underneath the nonlinear ring with an insulation of SiO2 layer supports the generated THz with resonant modes and out-couples them into a THz waveguide. The phase matching condition is satisfied by engineering both the optical and THz resonators with appropriate effective indices. We analytically estimate THz output power of the device by using practical values of susceptibility in available crystals and polymers. The proposed source can enable tunable, compact THz emitters, on-chip integrated spectrometers, inspire a broader use of THz sources and motivate many important potential THz applications in different fields.

Tunable Room Temperature THz Sources Based on Nonlinear Mixing in a Hybrid Optical and THz Micro-Ring Resonator

PubMed Central

Sinha, Raju; Karabiyik, Mustafa; Al-Amin, Chowdhury; Vabbina, Phani K.; Güney, Durdu Ö.; Pala, Nezih

2015-01-01

We propose and systematically investigate a novel tunable, compact room temperature terahertz (THz) source based on difference frequency generation in a hybrid optical and THz micro-ring resonator. We describe detailed design steps of the source capable of generating THz wave in 0.5–10 THz with a tunability resolution of 0.05 THz by using high second order optical susceptibility (χ(2)) in crystals and polymers. In order to enhance THz generation compared to bulk nonlinear material, we employ a nonlinear optical micro-ring resonator with high-Q resonant modes for infrared input waves. Another ring oscillator with the same outer radius underneath the nonlinear ring with an insulation of SiO2 layer supports the generated THz with resonant modes and out-couples them into a THz waveguide. The phase matching condition is satisfied by engineering both the optical and THz resonators with appropriate effective indices. We analytically estimate THz output power of the device by using practical values of susceptibility in available crystals and polymers. The proposed source can enable tunable, compact THz emitters, on-chip integrated spectrometers, inspire a broader use of THz sources and motivate many important potential THz applications in different fields. PMID:25800287

Ultra-broadband THz time-domain spectroscopy of common polymers using THz air photonics.

PubMed

D'Angelo, Francesco; Mics, Zoltán; Bonn, Mischa; Turchinovich, Dmitry

2014-05-19

Terahertz-range dielectric properties of the common polymers low-density polyethylene (LDPE), cyclic olefin/ethylene copolymer (TOPAS®), polyamide-6 (PA6), and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE or Teflon®) are characterized in the ultra-broadband frequency window 2-15 THz, using a THz time-domain spectrometer employing air-photonics for the generation and detection of single-cycle sub-50 fs THz transients. The time domain measurements provide direct access to both the absorption and refractive index spectra. The polymers LDPE and TOPAS® demonstrate negligible absorption and spectrally-flat refractive index across the entire spectroscopy window, revealing the high potential of these polymers for applications in THz photonics such as ultra-broadband polymer-based dielectric mirrors, waveguides, and fibers. Resonant high-frequency polar vibrational modes are observed and assigned in polymers PA6 and PTFE, and their dielectric functions in the complete frequency window 2-15 THz are theoretically reproduced. Our results demonstrate the potential of ultra-broadband air-photonics-based THz time domain spectroscopy as a valuable analytic tool for materials science.

Nonlinear THz absorption and cyclotron resonance in InSb

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Heffernan, Kate; Yu, Shukai; Talbayev, Diyar

The emergence of coherent high-field terahertz (THz) sources in the past decade has allowed the exploration of nonlinear light-matter interaction at THz frequencies. Nonlinear THz response of free electrons in semiconductors has received a great deal of attention. Such nonlinear phenomena as saturable absorption and self-phase modulation have been reported. InSb is a narrow-gap (bandgap 0.17 eV) semiconductor with a very low electron effective mass and high electron mobility. Previous high-field THz work on InSb reported the observation of ultrafast electron cascades via impact ionization. We study the transmission of an intense THz electric field pulse by an InSb wafer at different incident THz amplitudes and 10 K temperature. Contrary to previous reports, we observe an increased transmission at higher THz field. Our observation appears similar to the saturable THz absorption reported in other semiconductors. Along with the increased absorption, we observe a strong modulation of the THz phase at high incident fields, most likely due to the self-phase modulation of the THz pulse. We also study the dependence of the cyclotron resonance on the incident THz field amplitude. The cyclotron resonance exhibits a lower strength and frequency at the higher incident THz field. The work at Tulane was supported by the Louisiana Board of Regents through the Board of Regents Support Fund Contract No. LEQSF(2012-15)-RD-A-23 and through the Pilot Funding for New Research (PFund) Contract No. LEQSF-EPS(2014)-PFUND-378.

Model of THz Magnetization Dynamics.

PubMed

Bocklage, Lars

2016-03-09

Magnetization dynamics can be coherently controlled by THz laser excitation, which can be applied in ultrafast magnetization control and switching. Here, transient magnetization dynamics are calculated for excitation with THz magnetic field pulses. We use the ansatz of Smit and Beljers, to formulate dynamic properties of the magnetization via partial derivatives of the samples free energy density, and extend it to solve the Landau-Lifshitz-equation to obtain the THz transients of the magnetization. The model is used to determine the magnetization response to ultrafast multi- and single-cycle THz pulses. Control of the magnetization trajectory by utilizing the THz pulse shape and polarization is demonstrated.

Comparison of Thermal Detector Arrays for Off-Axis THz Holography and Real-Time THz Imaging

PubMed Central

Hack, Erwin; Valzania, Lorenzo; Gäumann, Gregory; Shalaby, Mostafa; Hauri, Christoph P.; Zolliker, Peter

2016-01-01

In terahertz (THz) materials science, imaging by scanning prevails when low power THz sources are used. However, the application of array detectors operating with high power THz sources is increasingly reported. We compare the imaging properties of four different array detectors that are able to record THz radiation directly. Two micro-bolometer arrays are designed for infrared imaging in the 8–14 μm wavelength range, but are based on different absorber materials (i) vanadium oxide; (ii) amorphous silicon; (iii) a micro-bolometer array optimized for recording THz radiation based on silicon nitride; and (iv) a pyroelectric array detector for THz beam profile measurements. THz wavelengths of 96.5 μm, 118.8 μm, and 393.6 μm from a powerful far infrared laser were used to assess the technical performance in terms of signal to noise ratio, detector response and detectivity. The usefulness of the detectors for beam profiling and digital holography is assessed. Finally, the potential and limitation for real-time digital holography are discussed. PMID:26861341

Comparison of Thermal Detector Arrays for Off-Axis THz Holography and Real-Time THz Imaging.

PubMed

Hack, Erwin; Valzania, Lorenzo; Gäumann, Gregory; Shalaby, Mostafa; Hauri, Christoph P; Zolliker, Peter

2016-02-06

In terahertz (THz) materials science, imaging by scanning prevails when low power THz sources are used. However, the application of array detectors operating with high power THz sources is increasingly reported. We compare the imaging properties of four different array detectors that are able to record THz radiation directly. Two micro-bolometer arrays are designed for infrared imaging in the 8-14 μm wavelength range, but are based on different absorber materials (i) vanadium oxide; (ii) amorphous silicon; (iii) a micro-bolometer array optimized for recording THz radiation based on silicon nitride; and (iv) a pyroelectric array detector for THz beam profile measurements. THz wavelengths of 96.5 μm, 118.8 μm, and 393.6 μm from a powerful far infrared laser were used to assess the technical performance in terms of signal to noise ratio, detector response and detectivity. The usefulness of the detectors for beam profiling and digital holography is assessed. Finally, the potential and limitation for real-time digital holography are discussed.

Studies on the transmission of sub-THz waves in magnetized inhomogeneous plasma sheath

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yuan, Kai; Shen, Linfang; Yao, Ming; Deng, Xiaohua; Chen, Zhou; Hong, Lujun

2018-01-01

There have been many studies on the sub-terahertz (sub-THz) wave transmission in reentry plasma sheaths. However, only some of them have paid attention to the transmission of sub-THz waves in magnetized plasma sheaths. In this paper, the transmission of sub-THz waves in both unmagnetized and magnetized reentry plasma sheaths was investigated. The impacts of temporal evolution of the plasma sheath on the wave transmission were studied. The transmission of "atmospheric window" frequencies in a magnetized plasma sheath was discussed in detail. According to the study, the power transmission rates (Tp) for the left hand circular (LHC) and the right hand circular modes in the magnetized plasma sheath are obviously higher and lower than those in the unmagnetized plasma sheath, respectively. The Tp of LHC mode increases with both wave frequency and external magnetic field strength. Also, the Tp of LHC mode in both magnetized and unmagnetized plasma sheaths varies with time due to the temporal evolution of the plasma sheath. Moreover, the performance of sub-THz waves in magnetized plasma sheath hints at a new approach to the "blackout" problem. The new approach, which is in the capability of modern technology, is to utilize the communication system operating at 140 GHz with an onboard magnet installed near the antenna.

Microwave generation with low residual phase noise from a femtosecond fiber laser with an intracavity electro-optic modulator.

PubMed

Swann, William C; Baumann, Esther; Giorgetta, Fabrizio R; Newbury, Nathan R

2011-11-21

Low phase-noise microwave generation has previously been demonstrated using self-referenced frequency combs to divide down a low noise optical reference. We demonstrate an approach based on a fs Er-fiber laser that avoids the complexity of self-referenced stabilization of the offset frequency. Instead, the repetition rate of the femtosecond Er-fiber laser is phase locked to two cavity-stabilized cw fiber lasers that span 3.74 THz by use of an intracavity electro-optic modulator with over 2 MHz feedback bandwidth. The fs fiber laser effectively divides the 3.74 THz difference signal to produce microwave signals at harmonics of the repetition rate. Through comparison of two identical dividers, we measure a residual phase noise on a 1.5 GHz carrier of -120 dBc/Hz at 1 Hz offset. © 2011 Optical Society of America

Improvement of passive THz camera images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kowalski, Marcin; Piszczek, Marek; Palka, Norbert; Szustakowski, Mieczyslaw

2012-10-01

Terahertz technology is one of emerging technologies that has a potential to change our life. There are a lot of attractive applications in fields like security, astronomy, biology and medicine. Until recent years, terahertz (THz) waves were an undiscovered, or most importantly, an unexploited area of electromagnetic spectrum. The reasons of this fact were difficulties in generation and detection of THz waves. Recent advances in hardware technology have started to open up the field to new applications such as THz imaging. The THz waves can penetrate through various materials. However, automated processing of THz images can be challenging. The THz frequency band is specially suited for clothes penetration because this radiation does not point any harmful ionizing effects thus it is safe for human beings. Strong technology development in this band have sparked with few interesting devices. Even if the development of THz cameras is an emerging topic, commercially available passive cameras still offer images of poor quality mainly because of its low resolution and low detectors sensitivity. Therefore, THz image processing is very challenging and urgent topic. Digital THz image processing is a really promising and cost-effective way for demanding security and defense applications. In the article we demonstrate the results of image quality enhancement and image fusion of images captured by a commercially available passive THz camera by means of various combined methods. Our research is focused on dangerous objects detection - guns, knives and bombs hidden under some popular types of clothing.

THz Spectroscopy of the Atmosphere

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pickett, Herbert M.

2000-01-01

THz spectroscopy of the atmosphere has been driven by the need to make remote sensing measurements of OH. While the THz region can be used for sensitive detection on many atmospheric molecules, the THz region is the best region for measuring the diurnal behavior of stratospheric OH by remote sensing. The infrared region near 3 microns suffers from chemiluminescence and from spectral contamination due to water. The ultraviolet region near 300 nm requires solar illumination. The three techniques for OH emission measurements in the THz region include Fourier Transform interferometry, Fabry-Perot interferometry, and heterodyne radiometry. The first two use cryogenic direct detectors while the last technique uses a local oscillator and a mixer to down convert the THz signal to GHz frequencies. All techniques have been used to measure stratospheric OH from balloon platforms. OH results from the Fabry-Perot based FILOS instrument will be given. Heterodyne measurement of OH at 2.5 THz has been selected to be a component of the Microwave Limb Sounder on the Earth Observing System CHEM-1 polar satellite. The design of this instrument will be described. A balloon-based prototype heterodyne 2.5 THz radiometer had its first flight on, 24 May 1998. Results form this flight will be presented.

Industrial applications of THz systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wietzke, S.; Jansen, C.; Jördens, C.; Krumbholz, N.; Vieweg, N.; Scheller, M.; Shakfa, M. K.; Romeike, D.; Hochrein, T.; Mikulics, M.; Koch, M.

2009-07-01

Terahertz time-domain spectroscopy (THz TDS) holds high potential as a non-destructive, non-contact testing tool. We have identified a plethora of emerging industrial applications such as quality control of industrial processes and products in the plastics industry. Polymers are transparent to THz waves while additives show a significantly higher permittivity. This dielectric contrast allows for detecting the additive concentration and the degree of dispersion. We present a first inline configuration of a THz TDS spectrometer for monitoring polymeric compounding processes. To evaluate plastic components, non-destructive testing is strongly recommended. For instance, THz imaging is capable of inspecting plastic weld joints or revealing the orientation of fiber reinforcements. Water strongly absorbs THz radiation. However, this sensitivity to water can be employed in order to investigate the moisture absorption in plastics and the water content in plants. Furthermore, applications in food technology are discussed. Moreover, security scanning applications are addressed in terms of identifying liquid explosives. We present the vision and first components of a handheld security scanner. In addition, a new approach for parameter extraction of THz TDS data is presented. All in all, we give an overview how industry can benefit from THz TDS completing the tool box of non-destructive evaluation.

THz Time-Domain Spectroscopy of Interstellar Ice Analogs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ioppolo, Sergio; McGuire, Brett A.; de Vries, Xander; Carroll, Brandon; Allodi, Marco; Blake, Geoffrey

2015-08-01

The unambiguous identification of nearly 200 molecular species in different astronomical environments proves that our cosmos is a ‘Molecular Universe’. The cumulative outcome of recent observations, laboratory studies, and astrochemical models indicates that there is a strong interplay between the gas and the solid phase throughout the process of forming molecules in space. Observations of interstellar ices are generally limited to lines-of-sight along which infrared absorption spectroscopy is possible. Therefore, the identification of more complex prebiotic molecules in the mid-IR is difficult because of their low expected interstellar abundances and the overlap of their absorption features with those from the more abundant species. In the THz region, telescopes can detect Interstellar ices in emission or absorption against dust continuum. Thus, THz searches do not require a background point source. Moreover, since THz spectra are the fingerprint of inter- and intramolecular forces, complex species can present unique modes that do not overlap with those from simpler, more abundant molecules. THz modes are also sensitive to temperature and phase changes in the ice. Therefore, spectroscopy at THz frequencies has the potential to better characterize the physics and chemistry of the ISM. Currently, the Herschel Space Telescope, SOFIA, and ALMA databases contain a vast amount of new THz spectral data that require THz laboratory spectra for interpretation. The latter, however, are largely lacking. We have recently constructed a new THz time-domain spectroscopy system operating in the range between 0.3 - 7.5 THz. This work focuses on the laboratory investigation of the composition and structure of the most abundant interstellar ice analogs compared to some more complex species. Different temperatures, mixing ratios, and matrix isolation experiments will be shown. The ultimate goal of this research is to provide the scientific community with an extensive THz ice

Directed high-power THz radiation from transverse laser wakefield excited in an electron density filament

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kalmykov, Serge; Englesbe, Alexander; Elle, Jennifer; Domonkos, Matthew; Schmitt-Sody, Andreas

2017-10-01

A tightly focused femtosecond, weakly relativistic laser pulse partially ionizes the ambient gas, creating a string (a ``filament'') of electron density, locally reducing the nonlinear index and compensating for the self-focusing effect caused by bound electrons. While maintaining the filament over many Rayleigh lengths, the pulse drives inside it a three-dimensional (3D) wave of charge separation - the plasma wake. If the pulse waist size is much smaller than the Langmuir wavelength, electron current in the wake is mostly transverse. Electrons, driven by the wake across the sharp radial boundary of the filament, lose coherence within 2-3 periods of wakefield oscillations, and the wake decays. The laser pulse is thus accompanied by a short-lived, almost aperiodic electron current coupled to the sharp index gradient. The comprehensive 3D hydrodynamic model shows that this structure emits a broad-band THz radiation, with the highest power emitted in the near-forward direction. The THz radiation pattern contains information on wake currents surrounding the laser pulse, thus serving as an all-optical diagnostic tool. The results are tested in cylindrical and full 3D PIC simulations using codes WAKE and EPOCH.

Invited Article: Single-shot THz detection techniques optimized for multidimensional THz spectroscopy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Teo, Stephanie M.; Ofori-Okai, Benjamin K.; Werley, Christopher A.

Multidimensional spectroscopy at visible and infrared frequencies has opened a window into the transfer of energy and quantum coherences at ultrafast time scales. For these measurements to be performed in a manageable amount of time, one spectral axis is typically recorded in a single laser shot. An analogous rapid-scanning capability for THz measurements will unlock the multidimensional toolkit in this frequency range. Here, we first review the merits of existing single-shot THz schemes and discuss their potential in multidimensional THz spectroscopy. We then introduce improved experimental designs and noise suppression techniques for the two most promising methods: frequency-to-time encoding withmore » linear spectral interferometry and angle-to-time encoding with dual echelons. Both methods, each using electro-optic detection in the linear regime, were able to reproduce the THz temporal waveform acquired with a traditional scanning delay line. Although spectral interferometry had mediocre performance in terms of signal-to-noise, the dual echelon method was easily implemented and achieved the same level of signal-to-noise as the scanning delay line in only 4.5% of the laser pulses otherwise required (or 22 times faster). This reduction in acquisition time will compress day-long scans to hours and hence provides a practical technique for multidimensional THz measurements.« less

Invited Article: Single-shot THz detection techniques optimized for multidimensional THz spectroscopy.

PubMed

Teo, Stephanie M; Ofori-Okai, Benjamin K; Werley, Christopher A; Nelson, Keith A

2015-05-01

Multidimensional spectroscopy at visible and infrared frequencies has opened a window into the transfer of energy and quantum coherences at ultrafast time scales. For these measurements to be performed in a manageable amount of time, one spectral axis is typically recorded in a single laser shot. An analogous rapid-scanning capability for THz measurements will unlock the multidimensional toolkit in this frequency range. Here, we first review the merits of existing single-shot THz schemes and discuss their potential in multidimensional THz spectroscopy. We then introduce improved experimental designs and noise suppression techniques for the two most promising methods: frequency-to-time encoding with linear spectral interferometry and angle-to-time encoding with dual echelons. Both methods, each using electro-optic detection in the linear regime, were able to reproduce the THz temporal waveform acquired with a traditional scanning delay line. Although spectral interferometry had mediocre performance in terms of signal-to-noise, the dual echelon method was easily implemented and achieved the same level of signal-to-noise as the scanning delay line in only 4.5% of the laser pulses otherwise required (or 22 times faster). This reduction in acquisition time will compress day-long scans to hours and hence provides a practical technique for multidimensional THz measurements.

Development of an MKIDs-Based THz Superconducting Imaging Array (TeSIA) at 0.85 THz

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shi, Sheng-Cai; Li, Jing; Lin, Zhen-Hui; Yang, Jin-Ping; Liu, Dong; Duan, Wen-Ying; Lou, Zheng; Shi, Qing; Li, Zhi; Zhang, Wen; Miao, Wei; Yao, Qi-Jun

2018-06-01

Dome A, the highest point of the cold and dry Antarctic ice sheet, offers the best access to atmospheric windows at THz/FIR wavelengths on Earth. China is planning to build a 5-m THz telescope (DATE5) there. To achieve its scientific goals associated with large sky surveys, we are developing a THz superconducting imaging array (TeSIA) at 0.85 THz (350-μm window) with a pixel number of 32 × 32 and targeting background-limited sensitivity. In this paper, detailed system design and performance of the TeSIA based on aluminum MKIDs are presented.

High power THz sources for nonlinear imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tekavec, Patrick F.; Kozlov, Vladimir G.

2014-02-01

Many biological and chemical compounds have unique absorption features in the THz (0.1 - 10 THz) region, making the use of THz waves attractive for imaging in defense, security, biomedical imaging, and monitoring of industrial processes. Unlike optical radiation, THz frequencies can pass through many substances such as paper, clothing, ceramic, etc. with little attenuation. The use of currently available THz systems is limited by lack of highpower, sources as well as sensitive detectors and detector arrays operating at room temperature. Here we present a novel, high power THz source based on intracavity downconverison of optical pulses. The source delivers 6 ps pulses at 1.5 THz, with an average power of >300 μW and peak powers >450 mW. We propose an imaging method based on frequency upconverison that is ideally suited to use the narrow bandwidth and high peak powers produced by the source. By upconverting the THz image to the infrared, commercially available detectors can be used for real time imaging.

Tunable, Room Temperature THZ Emitters Based on Nonlinear Photonics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sinha, Raju

The Terahertz (1012 Hz) region of the electromagnetic spectrum covers the frequency range from roughly 300 GHz to 10 THz, which is in between the microwave and infrared regimes. The increasing interest in the development of ultra-compact, tunable room temperature Terahertz (THz) emitters with wide-range tunability has stimulated in-depth studies of different mechanisms of THz generation in the past decade due to its various potential applications such as biomedical diagnosis, security screening, chemical identification, life sciences and very high speed wireless communication. Despite the tremendous research and development efforts, all the available state-of-the-art THz emitters suffer from either being large, complex and costly, or operating at low temperatures, lacking tunability, having a very short spectral range and a low output power. Hence, the major objective of this research was to develop simple, inexpensive, compact, room temperature THz sources with wide-range tunability. We investigated THz radiation in a hybrid optical and THz micro-ring resonators system. For the first time, we were able to satisfy the DFG phase matching condition for the above-mentioned THz range in one single device geometry by employing a modal phase matching technique and using two separately designed resonators capable of oscillating at input optical waves and generated THz waves. In chapter 6, we proposed a novel plasmonic antenna geometry – the dimer rod-tapered antenna (DRTA), where we created a hot-spot in the nanogap between the dimer arms with a very large intensity enhancement of 4.1x105 at optical resonant wavelength. Then, we investigated DFG operation in the antenna geometry by incorporating a nonlinear nanodot in the hot-spot of the antenna and achieved continuously tunable enhanced THz radiation across 0.5-10 THz range. In chapter 8, we designed a multi-metallic resonators providing an ultrasharp toroidal response at THz frequency, then fabricated and

Femtosecond response time measurements of a Cs2Te photocathode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aryshev, A.; Shevelev, M.; Honda, Y.; Terunuma, N.; Urakawa, J.

2017-07-01

Success in design and construction of a compact, high-brightness accelerator system is strongly related to the production of ultra-short electron beams. Recently, the approach to generate short electron bunches or pre-bunched beams in RF guns directly illuminating a high quantum efficiency semiconductor photocathode with femtosecond laser pulses has become attractive. The measurements of the photocathode response time in this case are essential. With an approach of the interferometer-type pulse splitter deep integration into a commercial Ti:Sa laser system used for RF guns, it has become possible to generate pre-bunched electron beams and obtain continuously variable electron bunch separation. In combination with a well-known zero-phasing technique, it allows us to estimate the response time of the most commonly used Cs2Te photocathode. It was demonstrated that the peak-to-peak rms time response of Cs2Te is of the order of 370 fs, and thereby, it is possible to generate and control a THz sequence of relativistic electron bunches by a conventional S-band RF gun. This result can also be applied for investigation of other cathode materials and electron beam temporal shaping and further opens a possibility to construct wide-range tunable, table-top THz free electron laser.

A comparative study of the plasmon effect in nanoelectrode THz emitters: Pulse vs. continuous-wave radiation

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Moon, Kiwon; Lee, Eui Su; Lee, Il-Min

Plasmonic field enhancement in terahertz (THz) generation is one of the recently arisen techniques in the THz field that has attracted considerable interest. However, the reported levels of enhancement of THz output power in the literature are significantly different from each other, from less than two times to about two orders of magnitude of enhancement in power, which implies the existence of other major limiting factors yet to be revealed. In this work, the contribution of the plasmonic effect to the power enhancement of THz emitters is revisited. We show that the carrier collection efficiency in a THz emitter withmore » plasmonic nanostructures is more critical to the device performance than the plasmonic field enhancement itself. The strong reverse fields induced by the highly localized plasmonic carriers in the vicinity of the nanoelectrodes screen the carrier collections and seriously limit the power enhancement. This is supported by our experimental observations of the significantly enhanced power in a plasmonic nanoelectrode THz emitter in continuous-wave radiation mode, while the same device has limited enhancement with pulsed radiation. We hope that our study may provide an intuitive but practical guideline in adopting plasmonic nanostructures with an aim of enhancing the efficiency of optoelectronic devices.« less

Theoretical Study on the 1.185-THz Third Harmonic Gyrotron

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dumbrajs, O.; Idehara, T.

2018-02-01

We discuss how the existing University of Fukui (FIR UF) second harmonic double-beam gyrotron with the operating frequency 0.79 THz can be adopted for operation at the third harmonic. The new gyrotron will operate at the frequency 1.185 THz and will significantly increase the frequency of the dynamic nuclear polarization-nuclear magnetic resonance (DNP-NMR) spectrometer. This will allow one to study new bio-molecules.A special attention is payed to the mode competition between the operating {TE}_{3,11}+ mode at the third harmonic and the parasitic modes at the second and fundamental harmonics. The operating parameters of the modified gyrotron are U = 20 kV, α = 1.3, I = 0.35 A, and B = 14.60 T and the expected output power about 100W.

THz and Sub-THz Capabilities of a Table-Top Radiation Source Driven by an RF Thermionic Electron Gun

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Smirnov, Alexei V.; Agustsson, R.; Boucher, S.

Design features and experimental results are presented for a sub-mm wave source [1] based on APS RF thermionic electron gun. The setup includes compact alpha-magnet, quadrupoles, sub-mm-wave radiators, and THz optics. The sub-THz radiator is a planar, oversized structure with gratings. Source upgrade for generation frequencies above 1 THz is discussed. The THz radiator will use a short-period undulator having 1 T field amplitude, ~20 cm length, and integrated with a low-loss oversized waveguide. Both radiators are integrated with a miniature horn antenna and a small ~90°-degree in-vacuum bending magnet. The electron beamline is designed to operate different modes includingmore » conversion to a flat beam interacting efficiently with the radiator. The source can be used for cancer diagnostics, surface defectoscopy, and non-destructive testing. Sub-THz experiment demonstrated a good potential of a robust, table-top system for generation of a narrow bandwidth THz radiation. This setup can be considered as a prototype of a compact, laser-free, flexible source capable of generation of long trains of Sub-THz and THz pulses with repetition rates not available with laser-driven sources.« less

Reflective terahertz (THz) imaging: system calibration using hydration phantoms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bajwa, Neha; Garritano, James; Lee, Yoon Kyung; Tewari, Priyamvada; Sung, Shijun; Maccabi, Ashkan; Nowroozi, Bryan; Babakhanian, Meghedi; Sanghvi, Sajan; Singh, Rahul; Grundfest, Warren; Taylor, Zachary

2013-02-01

Terahertz (THz) hydration sensing continues to gain traction in the medical imaging community due to its unparalleled sensitivity to tissue water content. Rapid and accurate detection of fluid shifts following induction of thermal skin burns as well as remote corneal hydration sensing have been previously demonstrated in vivo using reflective, pulsed THz imaging. The hydration contrast sensing capabilities of this technology were recently confirmed in a parallel 7 Tesla Magnetic Resonance (MR) imaging study, in which burn areas are associated with increases in local mobile water content. Successful clinical translation of THz sensing, however, still requires quantitative assessments of system performance measurements, specifically hydration concentration sensitivity, with tissue substitutes. This research aims to calibrate the sensitivity of a novel, reflective THz system to tissue water content through the use of hydration phantoms for quantitative comparisons of THz hydration imagery.Gelatin phantoms were identified as an appropriate tissue-mimicking model for reflective THz applications, and gel composition, comprising mixtures of water and protein, was varied between 83% to 95% hydration, a physiologically relevant range. A comparison of four series of gelatin phantom studies demonstrated a positive linear relationship between THz reflectivity and water concentration, with statistically significant hydration sensitivities (p < .01) ranging between 0.0209 - 0.038% (reflectivity: %hydration). The THz-phantom interaction is simulated with a three-layer model using the Transfer Matrix Method with agreement in hydration trends. Having demonstrated the ability to accurately and noninvasively measure water content in tissue equivalent targets with high sensitivity, reflective THz imaging is explored as a potential tool for early detection and intervention of corneal pathologies.

High power THz sources for nonlinear imaging

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Tekavec, Patrick F.; Kozlov, Vladimir G.

2014-02-18

Many biological and chemical compounds have unique absorption features in the THz (0.1 - 10 THz) region, making the use of THz waves attractive for imaging in defense, security, biomedical imaging, and monitoring of industrial processes. Unlike optical radiation, THz frequencies can pass through many substances such as paper, clothing, ceramic, etc. with little attenuation. The use of currently available THz systems is limited by lack of highpower, sources as well as sensitive detectors and detector arrays operating at room temperature. Here we present a novel, high power THz source based on intracavity downconverison of optical pulses. The source deliversmore » 6 ps pulses at 1.5 THz, with an average power of >300 μW and peak powers >450 mW. We propose an imaging method based on frequency upconverison that is ideally suited to use the narrow bandwidth and high peak powers produced by the source. By upconverting the THz image to the infrared, commercially available detectors can be used for real time imaging.« less

Selective THz control of magnetic order: new opportunities from superradiant undulator sources

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kovalev, S.; Wang, Zhe; Deinert, J.-C.; Awari, N.; Chen, M.; Green, B.; Germanskiy, S.; de Oliveira, T. V. A. G.; Lee, J. S.; Deac, A.; Turchinovich, D.; Stojanovic, N.; Eisebitt, S.; Radu, I.; Bonetti, S.; Kampfrath, T.; Gensch, M.

2018-03-01

Recent advancements of accelerator technology enable the generation of carrier-envelope-phase stable THz pulses with high fields at adjustable high repetition rates. The appropriate choice of THz radiator allows generation of narrow-band, spectrally dense, multicycle THz transients of tunable THz frequency which are ideally suited to selectively excite low-energy excitations such as magnons or phonons. They also allow one to study the frequency dependence of nonresonant THz-field interactions with various order parameters with high dynamic range. In this paper, we discuss the future prospects of this new type of THz light source for studying the coherent control of magnetic order based on recent results.

SYNCHROTRON RADIATION, FREE ELECTRON LASER, APPLICATION OF NUCLEAR TECHNOLOGY, ETC.: Study on the characteristics of linac based THz light source

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Xiong-Wei; Wang, Shu-Hong; Chen, Sen-Yu

2009-10-01

There are many methods based on linac for THz radiation production. As one of the options for the Beijing Advanced Light, an ERL test facility is proposed for THz radiation. In this test facility, there are 4 kinds of methods to produce THz radiation: coherent synchrotron radiation (CSR), synchrotron radiation (SR), low gain FEL oscillator, and high gain SASE FEL. In this paper, we study the characteristics of the 4 kinds of THz light sources.

Dual THz comb spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yasui, Takeshi

2017-08-01

Optical frequency combs are innovative tools for broadband spectroscopy because a series of comb modes can serve as frequency markers that are traceable to a microwave frequency standard. However, a mode distribution that is too discrete limits the spectral sampling interval to the mode frequency spacing even though individual mode linewidth is sufficiently narrow. Here, using a combination of a spectral interleaving and dual-comb spectroscopy in the terahertz (THz) region, we achieved a spectral sampling interval equal to the mode linewidth rather than the mode spacing. The spectrally interleaved THz comb was realized by sweeping the laser repetition frequency and interleaving additional frequency marks. In low-pressure gas spectroscopy, we achieved an improved spectral sampling density of 2.5 MHz and enhanced spectral accuracy of 8.39 × 10-7 in the THz region. The proposed method is a powerful tool for simultaneously achieving high resolution, high accuracy, and broad spectral coverage in THz spectroscopy.

Spectral Trends of Solar Bursts at Sub-THz Frequencies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fernandes, L. O. T.; Kaufmann, P.; Correia, E.; Giménez de Castro, C. G.; Kudaka, A. S.; Marun, A.; Pereyra, P.; Raulin, J.-P.; Valio, A. B. M.

2017-01-01

Previous sub-THz studies were derived from single-event observations. We here analyze for the first time spectral trends for a larger collection of sub-THz bursts. The collection consists of a set of 16 moderate to small impulsive solar radio bursts observed at 0.2 and 0.4 THz by the Solar Submillimeter-wave Telescope (SST) in 2012 - 2014 at El Leoncito, in the Argentinean Andes. The peak burst spectra included data from new solar patrol radio telescopes (45 and 90 GHz), and were completed with microwave data obtained by the Radio Solar Telescope Network, when available. We critically evaluate errors and uncertainties in sub-THz flux estimates caused by calibration techniques and the corrections for atmospheric transmission, and introduce a new method to obtain a uniform flux scale criterion for all events. The sub-THz bursts were searched during reported GOES soft X-ray events of class C or larger, for periods common to SST observations. Seven out of 16 events exhibit spectral maxima in the range 5 - 40 GHz with fluxes decaying at sub-THz frequencies (three of them associated to GOES class X, and four to class M). Nine out of 16 events exhibited the sub-THz spectral component. In five of these events, the sub-THz emission fluxes increased with a separate frequency from that of the microwave spectral component (two classified as X and three as M), and four events have only been detected at sub-THz frequencies (three classified as M and one as C). The results suggest that the THz component might be present throughout, with the minimum turnover frequency increasing as a function of the energy of the emitting electrons. The peculiar nature of many sub-THz burst events requires further investigations of bursts that are examined from SST observations alone to better understand these phenomena.

THz spectra of 1,4-naphthoquinones and its four derivatives

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Weining; Li, Hongqi; Luo, Xiang; Zeng, Xiaoni

2008-03-01

Recently some naphthoquinone derivatives have been found with anticancer or other therapeutic properties, but also have some negative side effects. Numerous research projects have been conducted to investigate their properties and therapeutic mechanisms. With Terahertz Time-Domain Spectroscopy (THz-TDS), we have successfully obtained THz spectra of 1,4-naphthoquinone and its four derivatives in a series of naphthazarin - juglone - 1,4-naphthoquinone - menadione - plumbagin, in the range between 0.2 and 2.4~2.8 THz. Although these molecules are almost identical to each other, they have very distinctive THz spectra so that they can be identified much more easily than using conventional spectroscopy. We have comparatively analyzed their THz spectra, and found some possible correlations between THz spectra and molecular structures. These THz spectra cannot only be used as spectral fingerprint, but also provide us their conformational properties that can be used in study of their interaction with biomolecules to reveal their pharmaceutical mechanisms.

RT-CW: widely tunable semiconductor THz QCL sources

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Razeghi, M.; Lu, Q. Y.

2016-09-01

Distinctive position of Terahertz (THz) frequencies (ν 0.3 -10 THz) in the electromagnetic spectrum with their lower quantum energy compared to IR and higher frequency compared to microwave range allows for many potential applications unique to them. Especially in the security side of the THz sensing applications, the distinct absorption spectra of explosives and related compounds in the range of 0.1-5 THz makes THz technology a competitive technique for detecting hidden explosives. A compact, high power, room temperature continuous wave terahertz source emitting in a wide frequency range will greatly boost the THz applications for the diagnosis and detection of explosives. Here we present a new strong-coupled strain-balanced quantum cascade laser design for efficient THz generation based intracavity DFG. Room temperature continuous wave operation with electrical frequency tuning range of 2.06-4.35 THz is demonstrated.

High power and spectral purity continuous-wave photonic THz source tunable from 1 to 4.5 THz for nonlinear molecular spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kiessling, J.; Breunig, I.; Schunemann, P. G.; Buse, K.; Vodopyanov, K. L.

2013-10-01

We report a diffraction-limited photonic terahertz (THz) source with linewidth <10 MHz that can be used for nonlinear THz studies in the continuous wave (CW) regime with uninterrupted tunability in a broad range of THz frequencies. THz output is produced in orientation-patterned (OP) gallium arsenide (GaAs) via intracavity frequency mixing between the two closely spaced resonating signal and idler waves of an optical parametric oscillator (OPO) operating near λ = 2 μm. The doubly resonant type II OPO is based on a periodically poled lithium niobate (PPLN) pumped by a single-frequency Yb:YAG disc laser at 1030 nm. We take advantage of the enhancement of both optical fields inside a high-finesse OPO cavity: with 10 W of 1030 nm pump, 100 W of intracavity power near 2 μm was attained with GaAs inside cavity. This allows dramatic improvement in terms of generated THz power, as compared to the state-of-the art CW methods. We achieved >25 μW of single-frequency tunable CW THz output power scalable to >1 mW with proper choice of pump laser wavelength.

Studies on spectroscopy of glycerol in THz range using microfluidic chip-integrated micropump

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Su, Bo; Han, Xue; Wu, Ying; Zhang, Cunlin

2014-11-01

Terahertz time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) is a detection method of biological molecules with label-free, non-ionizing, non-intrusive, no pollution and real-time monitoring. But owing to the strong THz absorption by water, it is mainly used in the solid state detection of biological molecules. In this paper, we present a microfluidic chip technique for detecting biological liquid samples using the transmission type of THz-TDS system. The microfluidic channel of the microfluidic chip is fabricated in the quartz glass using Micro-Electro-Mechanical System (MEMS) technology and sealed with polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) diaphragm. The length, width and depth of the microfluidic channel are 25mm, 100μm and 50μm, respectively. The diameter of THz detection zone in the microfluidic channel is 4mm. The thicknesses of quartz glass and PDMS diaphragm are 1mm and 250μm, individually. Another one of the same quartz glass is used to bond with the PDMS for the rigidity and air tightness of the microfluidic chip. In order to realize the automation of sampling and improve the control precise of fluid, a micropump, which comprises PDMS diaphragm, pump chamber, diffuser and nozzle and flat vibration motor, is integrated on the microfluidic chip. The diffuser and nozzle are fabricated on both sides of the pump chamber, which is covered with PDMS diaphragm. The flat vibration motor is stuck on the PDMS diaphragm as the actuator. We study the terahertz absorption spectroscopy characteristics of glycerol with the concentration of 98% in the microfluidic chip by the aid of the THz-TDS system, and the feasibility of the microfluidic chip for the detection of liquid samples is proved.

THz generation by laser coupling to carbon nanotube array

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Malik, Rakhee; Uma, R.

2018-01-01

A viable scheme of THz radiation generation by beating of two lasers ( ω1 , k→ 1 ; ω2 , k→ 2 ) in a nanotube array, mounted on a dielectric substrate, is proposed and studied. The free electrons of the nanotubes acquire a large oscillatory velocity and experience a beat frequency ponderomotive force that turns nanotubes into oscillating dipole antennae emitting THz radiation. The THz power peaks in directions where a phase difference between fields due to successive nanotubes is integral multiple of 2 π . The THz power is large when the beat frequency equals ωp/√{2 } (where ωp is the electron plasma frequency) and surface plasmon resonance occurs. For our set of laser and carbon nanotube parameters, the generated THz is about 0.1 kW for CO2 laser power of 10 GW and pulse length of a few picoseconds.

Ultrafast saturable absorption in TiS2 induced by non-equilibrium electrons and the generation of a femtosecond mode-locked laser.

PubMed

Tian, Xiangling; Wei, Rongfei; Liu, Meng; Zhu, Chunhui; Luo, Zhichao; Wang, Fengqiu; Qiu, Jianrong

2018-05-24

Non-equilibrium electrons induced by ultrafast laser excitation in a correlated electron material can disturb the Fermi energy as well as optical nonlinearity. Here, non-equilibrium electrons translate a semiconductor TiS2 material into a plasma to generate broad band nonlinear optical saturable absorption with a sub-picosecond recovery time of ∼768 fs (corresponding to modulation frequencies over 1.3 THz) and a modulation response up to ∼145%. Based on this optical nonlinear modulator, a stable femtosecond mode-locked pulse with a pulse duration of ∼402 fs and a pulse train with a period of ∼175.5 ns is observed in the all-optical system. The findings indicate that non-equilibrium electrons can promote a TiS2-based saturable absorber to be an ultrafast switch for a femtosecond pulse output.

Laser induced THz emission from femtosecond photocurrents in Co/ZnO/Pt and Co/Cu/Pt multilayers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, G.; Mikhaylovskiy, R. V.; Grishunin, K. A.; Costa, J. D.; Rasing, Th; Kimel, A. V.

2018-04-01

The ultrashort laser excitation of Co/Pt magnetic heterostructures can effectively generate spin and charge currents at the interfaces between magnetic and nonmagnetic layers. The direction of these photocurrents can be controlled by the helicity of the circularly polarized laser light and an external magnetic field. Here, we employ THz time-domain spectroscopy to investigate further the role of interfaces in these photo-galvanic phenomena. In particular, the effects of either Cu or ZnO interlayers on the photocurrents in Co/X/Pt (X  =  Cu, ZnO) have been studied by varying the thickness of the interlayers up to 5 nm. The results are discussed in terms of spin-diffusion phenomena and interfacial spin-orbit torque.

THz Dynamic Nuclear Polarization NMR

PubMed Central

Nanni, Emilio A.; Barnes, Alexander B.; Griffin, Robert G.; Temkin, Richard J.

2013-01-01

Dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP) increases the sensitivity of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy by using high frequency microwaves to transfer the polarization of the electrons to the nuclear spins. The enhancement in NMR sensitivity can amount to a factor of well above 100, enabling faster data acquisition and greatly improved NMR measurements. With the increasing magnetic fields (up to 23 T) used in NMR research, the required frequency for DNP falls into the THz band (140–600 GHz). Gyrotrons have been developed to meet the demanding specifications for DNP NMR, including power levels of tens of watts; frequency stability of a few megahertz; and power stability of 1% over runs that last for several days to weeks. Continuous gyrotron frequency tuning of over 1 GHz has also been demonstrated. The complete DNP NMR system must include a low loss transmission line; an optimized antenna; and a holder for efficient coupling of the THz radiation to the sample. This paper describes the DNP NMR process and illustrates the THz systems needed for this demanding spectroscopic application. THz DNP NMR is a rapidly developing, exciting area of THz science and technology. PMID:24639915

Novel THz radiation from relativistic laser-plasmas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sheng, Z. M.; Wu, H. C.; Wang, W. M.; Dong, X. G.; Chen, M.; Zhang, J.

2009-05-01

The interaction of ultrashort intense laser pulses with plasma can produce electromagnetic radiation of ultra-broad spectra ranging from terahertz (THz) radiation to keV x-rays and beyond. Here we present a review of our recent theoretical and numerical investigation on high power THz generation from tenuous plasma or gas targets irradiated by ultrashort intense laser pulses. Three mechanisms of THz emission are addressed, which include the linear mode conversion from laser wakefields in inhomogeneous plasma, transient current emission at the plasma-vacuum boundaries, and the emission from residual transverse currents produced by temporally-asymmetric laser pulses passing through gas or plasma targets. Since there is no breakdown limit for plasma under the irradiation of high power lasers, in principle, all these mechanisms can lead to terahertz pulse emission at the power of beyond megawatt with the field strength of MV/cm, suitable for the study of high THz field physics and other applications.

THz-wave parametric sources and imaging applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kawase, Kodo

2004-12-01

We have studied the generation of terahertz (THz) waves by optical parametric processes based on laser light scattering from the polariton mode of nonlinear crystals. Using parametric oscillation of MgO-doped LiNbO3 crystal pumped by a nano-second Q-switched Nd:YAG laser, we have realized a widely tunable coherent THz-wave sources with a simple configuration. We have also developed a novel basic technology for THz imaging, which allows detection and identification of chemicals by introducing the component spatial pattern analysis. The spatial distributions of the chemicals were obtained from terahertz multispectral trasillumination images, using absorption spectra previously measured with a widely tunable THz-wave parametric oscillator. Further we have applied this technique to the detection and identification of illicit drugs concealed in envelopes. The samples we used were methamphetamine and MDMA, two of the most widely consumed illegal drugs in Japan, and aspirin as a reference.

Sub-THz Imaging Using Non-Resonant HEMT Detectors.

PubMed

Delgado-Notario, Juan A; Velazquez-Perez, Jesus E; Meziani, Yahya M; Fobelets, Kristel

2018-02-10

Plasma waves in gated 2-D systems can be used to efficiently detect THz electromagnetic radiation. Solid-state plasma wave-based sensors can be used as detectors in THz imaging systems. An experimental study of the sub-THz response of II-gate strained-Si Schottky-gated MODFETs (Modulation-doped Field-Effect Transistor) was performed. The response of the strained-Si MODFET has been characterized at two frequencies: 150 and 300 GHz: The DC drain-to-source voltage transducing the THz radiation (photovoltaic mode) of 250-nm gate length transistors exhibited a non-resonant response that agrees with theoretical models and physics-based simulations of the electrical response of the transistor. When imposing a weak source-to-drain current of 5 μA, a substantial increase of the photoresponse was found. This increase is translated into an enhancement of the responsivity by one order of magnitude as compared to the photovoltaic mode, while the NEP (Noise Equivalent Power) is reduced in the subthreshold region. Strained-Si MODFETs demonstrated an excellent performance as detectors in THz imaging.

Sub-THz Imaging Using Non-Resonant HEMT Detectors

PubMed Central

Delgado-Notario, Juan A.; Meziani, Yahya M.; Fobelets, Kristel

2018-01-01

Plasma waves in gated 2-D systems can be used to efficiently detect THz electromagnetic radiation. Solid-state plasma wave-based sensors can be used as detectors in THz imaging systems. An experimental study of the sub-THz response of II-gate strained-Si Schottky-gated MODFETs (Modulation-doped Field-Effect Transistor) was performed. The response of the strained-Si MODFET has been characterized at two frequencies: 150 and 300 GHz: The DC drain-to-source voltage transducing the THz radiation (photovoltaic mode) of 250-nm gate length transistors exhibited a non-resonant response that agrees with theoretical models and physics-based simulations of the electrical response of the transistor. When imposing a weak source-to-drain current of 5 μA, a substantial increase of the photoresponse was found. This increase is translated into an enhancement of the responsivity by one order of magnitude as compared to the photovoltaic mode, while the NEP (Noise Equivalent Power) is reduced in the subthreshold region. Strained-Si MODFETs demonstrated an excellent performance as detectors in THz imaging. PMID:29439437

Laser Micromachining Fabrication of THz Components

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

DrouetdAubigny, C.; Walker, C.; Jones, B.; Groppi, C.; Papapolymerou, J.; Tavenier, C.

2001-01-01

Laser micromachining techniques can be used to fabricate high-quality waveguide structures and quasi-optical components to micrometer accuracies. Successful GHz designs can be directly scaled to THz frequencies. We expect this promising technology to allow the construction of the first fully integrated THz heterodyne imaging arrays. At the University of Arizona, construction of the first laser micromachining system designed for THz waveguide components fabrication has been completed. Once tested and characterized our system will be used to construct prototype THz lx4 focal plane mixer arrays, magic tees, AR coated silicon lenses, local oscillator source phase gratings, filters and more. Our system can micro-machine structures down to a few microns accuracy and up to 6 inches across in a short time. This paper discusses the design and performance of our micromachining system, and illustrates the type, range and performance of components this exciting new technology will make accessible to the THz community.

Thin layered drawing media probed by THz time-domain spectroscopy.

PubMed

Tasseva, J; Taschin, A; Bartolini, P; Striova, J; Fontana, R; Torre, R

2016-12-19

Dry and wet drawing materials were investigated by THz time-domain spectroscopy in transmission mode. Carbon-based and iron-gall inks have been studied, some prepared following ancient recipes and others using current synthetic materials; a commercial ink was studied as well. We measured the THz signals on the thin films of liquid inks deposited on polyethylene pellicles, comparing the results with the thick pellets of dried inks blended with polyethylene powder. This study required the implementation of an accurate experimental method and data analysis procedure able to provide a reliable extraction of the material transmission parameters from a structured sample composed of thin layers, down to a thickness of a few tens of micrometers. THz measurements on thin ink layers enabled the determination of both the absorption and the refractive index in an absolute scale in the 0.1-3 THz range, as well as the layer thickness. THz spectroscopic features of a paper sheet dyed by using one of the iron-gall inks were also investigated. Our results showed that THz time-domain spectroscopy enables the discrimination of various inks on different supports, including the application on paper, together with the proper determination of the absorption coefficients and indices of refraction.

Collective hydration dynamics in some amino acid solutions: A combined GHz-THz spectroscopic study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Samanta, Nirnay; Das Mahanta, Debasish; Choudhury, Samiran; Barman, Anjan; Kumar Mitra, Rajib

2017-03-01

A detailed understanding of hydration of amino acids, the building units of protein, is a key step to realize the overall solvation processes in proteins. In the present contribution, we have made a combined GHz (0.2-50) to THz (0.3-2.0) experimental spectroscopic study to investigate the dynamics of water at room temperature in the presence of different amino acids (glycine, L-serine, L-lysine, L-tryptophan, L-arginine, and L-aspartic acid). The THz absorption coefficient, α(ν), of amino acids follows a trend defined by their solvent accessible surface area. The imaginary and real dielectric constants obtained in GHz and THz regions are fitted into multiple Debye model to obtain various relaxation times. The ˜100 ps time scale obtained in the GHz frequency region is attributed to the rotational motion of the amino acids. In the THz region, we obtain ˜8 ps and ˜200 fs time scales which are related to the cooperative dynamics of H-bond network and partial rotation or sudden jump of the under-coordinated water molecules. These time scales are found to be dependent on the amino acid type and the cooperative motion is found to be dependent on both the hydrophobic as well as the hydrophilic residue of amino acids.

Exploration of the effects of burn parameters on THz wound imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bajwa, Neha; Sung, Shijun; Fishbein, Michael; Grundfest, Warren S.; Taylor, Zachary D.

2015-08-01

The high contrast resolution afforded by terahertz (1 THz = 1012 Hz) imaging of physiologic tissue continues to drive explorations into the utility of THz technology for burn wound detection. Although we have previously reported the use of a novel, reflective THz imaging technology to sense spatiotemporal differences in reflectivity between partial and full thickness burn wounds, no evidence exists of a one-to-one correlation between structural damage observed in histological assessments of burn severity and THz signal. For example, varying burn induction methods may all result in a common burn wound severity, however, burn features observed in parallel THz imagery may not be identical. Successful clinical translation of THz technology as a comprehensive burn guidance tool, therefore, necessitates an understanding of THz signal and its relation to wound pathophysiology. In this work, longitudinal THz imagery was acquired with a quartz (n = 2.1, 500 μm) window of cutaneous wounds induced with the same brand geometry and contact pressure but varying contact times (5, 7, and 10 seconds) in in vivo, pre-clinical rat models (n=3) over a period of 3 days. Though all burn wounds were evaluated to be deep partial thickness with histology, THz contrasts observed for each burn contact time were intrinsically unique. This is the first preliminary in vivo evidence of a many-to-one relationship between changes in THz contrast and burn severity as ascertained by histology. Future large-scale studies are required to assess whether these observed changes in THz contrast may be interpreted as physiological changes occurring over time, morphometric changes related to anatomical change, or electromagnetic changes between dielectric substrate windows and the underlying tissue.

Simulation, fabrication and characterization of THz metamaterial absorbers.

PubMed

Grant, James P; McCrindle, Iain J H; Cumming, David R S

2012-12-27

Metamaterials (MM), artificial materials engineered to have properties that may not be found in nature, have been widely explored since the first theoretical(1) and experimental demonstration(2) of their unique properties. MMs can provide a highly controllable electromagnetic response, and to date have been demonstrated in every technologically relevant spectral range including the optical(3), near IR(4), mid IR(5) , THz(6) , mm-wave(7) , microwave(8) and radio(9) bands. Applications include perfect lenses(10), sensors(11), telecommunications(12), invisibility cloaks(13) and filters(14,15). We have recently developed single band(16), dual band(17) and broadband(18) THz metamaterial absorber devices capable of greater than 80% absorption at the resonance peak. The concept of a MM absorber is especially important at THz frequencies where it is difficult to find strong frequency selective THz absorbers(19). In our MM absorber the THz radiation is absorbed in a thickness of ~ λ/20, overcoming the thickness limitation of traditional quarter wavelength absorbers. MM absorbers naturally lend themselves to THz detection applications, such as thermal sensors, and if integrated with suitable THz sources (e.g. QCLs), could lead to compact, highly sensitive, low cost, real time THz imaging systems.

Majolica imaging with THz waves: preliminary results

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Catapano, Ilaria; Affinito, Antonio; Guerriero, Luigi; Bisceglia, Bruno; Soldovieri, Francesco

2016-05-01

Recent advancements performed in the development of stable and flexible devices working at TeraHertz (THz) frequencies have opened the way at considering this technology as a very interesting noninvasive diagnostic tool in cultural heritage. In this frame, the paper aims at assessing the ability of THz imaging to gather information about preservation state and constructive modalities of majolica artworks. In particular, THz surveys have been carried out on two majolica tiles dated back to the nineteenth century and realized as building cladding at Naples (Italy). The analysis has been performed by means of the Zomega fiber-coupled THz time-domain system. This analysis corroborates the ability of THz to reconstruct irregularities of majolica tile topography, to characterize pigment and glaze losses, and to detect and localize glaze and pigment layer as well as the glaze-clay body interface.

Photo-induced spatial modulation of THz waves: opportunities and limitations.

PubMed

Kannegulla, Akash; Shams, Md Itrat Bin; Liu, Lei; Cheng, Li-Jing

2015-12-14

Programmable conductive patterns created by photoexcitation of semiconductor substrates using digital light processing (DLP) provides a versatile approach for spatial and temporal modulation of THz waves. The reconfigurable nature of the technology has great potential in implementing several promising THz applications, such as THz beam steering, THz imaging or THz remote sensing, in a simple, cost-effective manner. In this paper, we provide physical insight about how the semiconducting materials, substrate dimension, optical illumination wavelength and illumination size impact the performance of THz modulation, including modulation depth, modulation speed and spatial resolution. The analysis establishes design guidelines for the development of photo-induced THz modulation technology. Evolved from the theoretical analysis, a new mesa array technology composed by a matrix of sub-THz wavelength structures is introduced to maximize both spatial resolution and modulation depth for THz modulation with low-power photoexcitation by prohibiting the lateral diffusion of photogenerated carriers.

Spiral Antenna-Coupled Microbridge Structures for THz Application.

PubMed

Gou, Jun; Zhang, Tian; Wang, Jun; Jiang, Yadong

2017-12-01

Bolometer sensor is a good candidate for THz imaging due to its compact system, low cost, and wideband operation. Based on infrared microbolometer structures, two kinds of antenna-coupled microbridge structures are proposed with different spiral antennas: spiral antenna on support layer and spiral antenna with extended legs. Aiming at applications in detection and imaging, simulations are carried out mainly for optimized absorption at 2.52 THz, which is the radiation frequency of far-infrared CO 2 lasers. The effects of rotation angle, line width, and spacing of the spiral antenna on THz wave absorption of microbridge structures are discussed. Spiral antenna, with extended legs, is a good solution for high absorption rate at low absorption frequency and can be used as electrode lead simultaneously for simplified manufacturing process. A spiral antenna-coupled microbridge structure with an absorption rate of more than 75% at 2.52 THz is achieved by optimizing the structure parameters. This research demonstrates the use of different spiral antennas for enhanced and tunable THz absorption of microbridge structures and provides an effective way to fabricate THz microbolometer detectors with great potential in the application of real-time THz imaging.

Intraocular Lens Fragmentation Using Femtosecond Laser: An In Vitro Study

PubMed Central

Bala, Chandra; Shi, Jeffrey; Meades, Kerrie

2015-01-01

Purpose: To transect intraocular lenses (IOLs) using a femtosecond laser in cadaveric human eyes. To determine the optimal in vitro settings, to detect and characterize gasses or particles generated during this process. Methods: A femtosecond laser was used to transect hydrophobic and hydrophilic acrylic lenses. The settings required to enable easy separation of the lens fragment were determined. The gasses and particles generated were analysed using gas chromatography mass spectrometer (GC-MS) and total organic carbon analyzer (TOC), respectively. Results: In vitro the IOL fragments easily separated at the lowest commercially available energy setting of 1 μJ, 8-μm spot, and 2-μm line separation. No particles were detected in the 0.5- to 900-μm range. No significant gasses or other organic breakdown by products were detected at this setting. At much higher energy levels 12 μJ (4 × 6 μm spot and line separation) significant pyrolytic products were detected, which could be harmful to the eye. In cadaveric explanted IOL capsule complex the laser pulses could be applied through the capsule to the IOL and successfully fragment the IOL. Conclusion: IOL transection is feasible with femtosecond lasers. Further in vivo animal studies are required to confirm safety. Translational Relevance: In clinical practice there are a number of large intraocular lenses that can be difficult to explant. This in-vitro study examines the possibility of transecting the lasers quickly using femtosecond lasers. If in-vivo studies are successful, then this innovation could help ophthalmic surgeons in IOL explantation. PMID:26101721

THz Local Oscillator Technology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mehdi, Imran

2004-01-01

The last decade has seen a number of technological advancements that have now made it possible to implement fully solid state local oscillator chains up to 2 THz. These chains are composed of cascaded planar multiplier stages that are pumped with W-band high power sources. The high power W-band sources are achieved by power combining MMIC amplifiers and can provide in access of 150 mW with about 10% bandwidth. Planar diode technology has also enabled novel circuit topologies that can take advantage of the high input power and demonstrate significant efficiencies well into the THz range. Cascaded chains to 1.9 THz have now been demonstrated with enough output power to successfully pump hot-electron bolometer mixers in this frequency range. An overview of the current State-of-the-Art of the local oscillator technology will be presented along with highlighting future trends and challenges.

THz Imaging of Skin Burn: Seeing the Unseen—An Overview

PubMed Central

Dutta, Moumita; Bhalla, Amar S.; Guo, Ruyan

2016-01-01

Significance: This review article puts together all the studies performed so far in realizing terahertz (THz) spectra as a probing mechanism for burn evaluation, summarizing their experimental conditions, observations, outcomes, merits, and demerits, along with a comparative discussion of other currently used technologies to present the state of art in a condensed manner. The key features of this noncontact investigation technique like its precise burn depth analysis and the approaches it follows to convert the probed data into a quantitative measure have also been discussed in this article. Recent Advances: The current research developments in THz regime observed in device design technologies (like THz time domain spectrometer, quantum cascade THz lasers, THz single-photon detectors, etc.) and in understanding its unique properties (like nonionizing nature, penetrability through dry dielectrics, etc.) have motivated the research world to realize THz window as a potential candidate for burn detection. Critical Issues: Application of appropriate medical measure for burn injury is primarily subjective to proper estimation of burn depth. Tool modality distinguishing between partial and full-thickness burn contributing toward correct medical care is indeed awaited. Future Directions: The overview of THz imaging as a burn assessment tool as provided in this article will certainly help in further nurturing of this emerging diagnostic technique particularly in improving its detection and accompanied image processing methods so that the minute nuances captured by the THz beam can be correlated with the physiological–anatomical changes in skin structures, caused by burn, for better sensitivity, resolution, and quantitative analysis. PMID:27602253

THz Imaging of Skin Burn: Seeing the Unseen-An Overview.

PubMed

Dutta, Moumita; Bhalla, Amar S; Guo, Ruyan

2016-08-01

Significance: This review article puts together all the studies performed so far in realizing terahertz (THz) spectra as a probing mechanism for burn evaluation, summarizing their experimental conditions, observations, outcomes, merits, and demerits, along with a comparative discussion of other currently used technologies to present the state of art in a condensed manner. The key features of this noncontact investigation technique like its precise burn depth analysis and the approaches it follows to convert the probed data into a quantitative measure have also been discussed in this article. Recent Advances: The current research developments in THz regime observed in device design technologies (like THz time domain spectrometer, quantum cascade THz lasers, THz single-photon detectors, etc.) and in understanding its unique properties (like nonionizing nature, penetrability through dry dielectrics, etc.) have motivated the research world to realize THz window as a potential candidate for burn detection. Critical Issues: Application of appropriate medical measure for burn injury is primarily subjective to proper estimation of burn depth. Tool modality distinguishing between partial and full-thickness burn contributing toward correct medical care is indeed awaited. Future Directions: The overview of THz imaging as a burn assessment tool as provided in this article will certainly help in further nurturing of this emerging diagnostic technique particularly in improving its detection and accompanied image processing methods so that the minute nuances captured by the THz beam can be correlated with the physiological-anatomical changes in skin structures, caused by burn, for better sensitivity, resolution, and quantitative analysis.

New developments in THz-time domain spectroscopy involving ML-VECSELs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Apostolopoulos, Vasilis; Tropper, Anne C.; Keenlyside, Benjamin; Chen-Sverre, Theo; Woods, Jonathan R. C.

2018-02-01

The THz time domain spectrometer (THz-TDS) has revolutionized the adoption of THz science in fields such as medicine, material characterization, pharmaceutical research and biology among others. Traditionally a THz-TDS was based on a titanium sapphire laser, while most of the commercially sold spectrometers today adopt fiber lasers. Vertical External Cavity Surface emitting lasers or VECSELs have potential to be the future laser of choice for the implementation of THz spectrometers, as they are small, low-cost, low noise and high repetition rate. Here I will outline the progress in our laboratory and the general community concerning VECSEL-THz technology and I will account the problems that have to be solved for the VECSEL-THz technology to succeed.

A THz Tomography System for Arbitrarily Shaped Samples

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stübling, E.; Bauckhage, Y.; Jelli, E.; Fischer, B.; Globisch, B.; Schell, M.; Heinrich, A.; Balzer, J. C.; Koch, M.

2017-10-01

We combine a THz time-domain spectroscopy system with a robotic arm. With this scheme, the THz emitter and receiver can be positioned perpendicular and at defined distance to the sample surface. Our system allows the acquisition of reflection THz tomographic images of samples with an arbitrarily shaped surface.

Vibrational signatures in the THz spectrum of 1,3-DNB: A first-principles and experimental study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ahmed, Towfiq; Azad, Abul K.; Chellappa, Raja; Higginbotham-Duque, Amanda; Dattelbaum, Dana M.; Zhu, Jian-Xin; Moore, David; Graf, Matthias J.

2016-05-01

Understanding the fundamental processes of light-matter interaction is important for detection of explosives and other energetic materials, which are active in the infrared and terahertz (THz) region. We report a comprehensive study on electronic and vibrational lattice properties of structurally similar 1,3-dinitrobenzene (1,3-DNB) crystals through first-principles electronic structure calculations and THz spectroscopy measurements on polycrystalline samples. Starting from reported x-ray crystal structures, we use density-functional theory (DFT) with periodic boundary conditions to optimize the structures and perform linear response calculations of the vibrational properties at zero phonon momentum. The theoretically identified normal modes agree qualitatively with those obtained experimentally in a frequency range up to 2.5 THz and quantitatively at much higher frequencies. The latter frequencies are set by intra-molecular forces. Our results suggest that van der Waals dispersion forces need to be included to improve the agreement between theory and experiment in the THz region, which is dominated by intermolecular modes and sensitive to details in the DFT calculation. An improved comparison is needed to assess and distinguish between intra- and intermolecular vibrational modes characteristic of energetic materials.

Nine wave-length THz spectrum for identification using backward wave oscillator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lv, Mo; Zhong, Hua; Ge, Xin-hao; He, Ting; Mu, Kaijun; Zhang, Cun-lin

2009-11-01

The sensing of the explosive is very important for homeland security and defense. We present a nine-wavelength continuous wave (CW) Terahertz (THz) spectroscopy for identification of explosive compounds (2,4-DNT, RDX and TNT) using three Backward Wave Oscillator (BWO) sources, which emit radiations from 0.2 THz to 0.38THz, 0.18THz to 0.26THz and 0.6THz to 0.7THz, respectively. To identify the target materials, only the transmitted THz power through the explosive pellets are measured at the nine discrete wavelengths. A hole, which is the same size as these pellets, is used as references to normalize the transmitted THz power. The measured discrete spectra was successfully identified and classified by using self-organizing map (SOM). These results prove that the backward wave oscillator is a convenient and powerful solution in future development of a standoff THz sensing and identification unit.

New THz opportunities based on graphene

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hartnagel, Hans

2015-04-24

Graphene is a new material of a single or multiple layer carbon structure with impressive properties. A brief introduction is initially presented. Graphene does not have a bandwidth and is a semimetal with charge carriers of zero mass. A bandgap can be formed by confining the graphene width in nanoribbon or nanoconstricition structures. For example, the induced bandgap by a 20 nm wide nanoribbon is about 50 meV. The charge carrier mass then increases, but is still very small. This material can especially be employed for various Terahertz applications. Here several examples are to be described, namely a) a THz transistor,more » b) the opportunities of ballistic electron resonances for THz signal generation, c) the simultaneous optical transmission and electrical conduction up to THz frequencies and d) Cascaded THz emitters. The optical advantages of multilayer graphene can be compared to ITO (Indium Tin Oxide)« less

Terahertz-Radiation-Enhanced Emission of Fluorescence from Gas Plasma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Jingle; Zhang, X.-C.

2009-12-01

We report the study of femtosecond laser-induced air plasma fluorescence under the illumination of terahertz (THz) pulses. Semiclassical modeling and experimental verification indicate that time-resolved THz radiation-enhanced emission of fluorescence is dominated by the electron kinetics and the electron-impact excitation of gas molecules or ions. We demonstrate that the temporal waveform of the THz field could be retrieved from the transient enhanced fluorescence, making omnidirectional, coherent detection available for THz time-domain spectroscopy.

Propagation characteristic of THz wave in camouflage net material

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dong, Hailong; Wang, Jiachun; Chen, Zongsheng; Lin, Zhidan; Zhao, Dapeng; Liu, Ruihuang

2017-10-01

Terahertz (THz) radar system, with excellent potentials such as high-resolution and strong penetration capability, is promising in the field of anti-camouflage. Camouflage net is processed by cutting the camouflage net material, which is fabricated on pre-processing substrate by depositing coatings with camouflage abilities in different bands, such as visible, infrared and radar. In this paper, we concentrate on the propagation characteristic of THz wave in camouflage net material. Firstly, function and structure of camouflage net were analyzed. Then the advantage and appliance of terahertz time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) was introduced. And the relevant experiments were conducted by utilizing THz-TDS. The results obtained indicate that THz wave has better penetration capacity in camouflage net material, which demonstrates the feasibility of using THz radar to detect those targets covered with camouflage net.

THz transceiver characterization : LDRD project 139363 final report.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Nordquist, Christopher Daniel; Wanke, Michael Clement; Cich, Michael Joseph

2009-09-01

LDRD Project 139363 supported experiments to quantify the performance characteristics of monolithically integrated Schottky diode + quantum cascade laser (QCL) heterodyne mixers at terahertz (THz) frequencies. These integrated mixers are the first all-semiconductor THz devices to successfully incorporate a rectifying diode directly into the optical waveguide of a QCL, obviating the conventional optical coupling between a THz local oscillator and rectifier in a heterodyne mixer system. This integrated mixer was shown to function as a true heterodyne receiver of an externally received THz signal, a breakthrough which may lead to more widespread acceptance of this new THz technology paradigm. Inmore » addition, questions about QCL mode shifting in response to temperature, bias, and external feedback, and to what extent internal frequency locking can improve stability have been answered under this project.« less

Vectorial diffraction properties of THz vortex Bessel beams.

PubMed

Wu, Zhen; Wang, Xinke; Sun, Wenfeng; Feng, Shengfei; Han, Peng; Ye, Jiasheng; Yu, Yue; Zhang, Yan

2018-01-22

A vortex Bessel beam combines the merits of an optical vortex and a Bessel beam, including a spiral wave front and a non-diffractive feature, which has immense application potentials in optical trapping, optical fabrication, optical communications, and so on. Here, linearly and circularly polarized vortex Bessel beams in the terahertz (THz) frequency range are generated by utilizing a THz quarter wave plate, a spiral phase plate, and Teflon axicons with different opening angles. Taking advantage of a THz focal-plane imaging system, vectorial diffraction properties of the THz vortex Bessel beams are comprehensively characterized and discussed, including the transverse (Ex, Ey) and longitudinal (Ez) polarization components. The experimental phenomena are accurately simulated by adopting the vectorial Rayleigh diffraction integral. By varying the opening angle of the axicon, the characteristic parameters of these THz vortex Bessel beams are exhibited and compared, including the light spot size, the diffraction-free range, and the phase evolution process. This work provides the precise experimental and theoretical bases for the comprehension and application of a THz vortex Bessel beam.

A quantitative study for determination of sugar concentration using attenuated total reflectance terahertz (ATR-THz) spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suhandy, Diding; Suzuki, Tetsuhito; Ogawa, Yuichi; Kondo, Naoshi; Ishihara, Takeshi; Takemoto, Yuichiro

2011-06-01

The objective of our research was to use ATR-THz spectroscopy together with chemometric for quantitative study in food analysis. Glucose, fructose and sucrose are main component of sugar both in fresh and processed fruits. The use of spectroscopic-based method for sugar determination is well reported especially using visible, near infrared (NIR) and middle infrared (MIR) spectroscopy. However, the use of terahertz spectroscopy for sugar determination in fruits has not yet been reported. In this work, a quantitative study for sugars determination using attenuated total reflectance terahertz (ATR-THz) spectroscopy was conducted. Each samples of glucose, fructose and sucrose solution with different concentrations were prepared respectively and their absorbance spectra between wavenumber 20 and 450 cm-1 (between 0.6 THz and 13.5 THz) were acquired using a terahertz-based Fourier Transform spectrometer (FARIS-1S, JASCO Co., Japan). This spectrometer was equipped with a high pressure of mercury lamp as light source and a pyroelectric sensor made from deuterated L-alanine triglycine sulfate (DLTGS) as detector. Each spectrum was acquired using 16 cm-1 of resolution and 200 scans for averaging. The spectra of water and sugar solutions were compared and discussed. The results showed that increasing sugar concentration caused decreasing absorbance. The correlation between sugar concentration and its spectra was investigated using multivariate analysis. Calibration models for glucose, fructose and sucrose determination were developed using partial least squares (PLS) regression. The calibration model was evaluated using some parameters such as coefficient of determination (R2), standard error of calibration (SEC), standard error of prediction (SEP), bias between actual and predicted sugar concentration value and ratio prediction to deviation (RPD) parameter. The cross validation method was used to validate each calibration model. It is showed that the use of ATR-THz

Nanotechnology-supported THz medical imaging

PubMed Central

Stylianou, Andreas; Talias, Michael A

2013-01-01

Over the last few decades, the achievements and progress in the field of medical imaging have dramatically enhanced the early detection and treatment of many pathological conditions. The development of new imaging modalities, especially non-ionising ones, which will improve prognosis, is of crucial importance. A number of novel imaging modalities have been developed but they are still in the initial stages of development and serious drawbacks obstruct them from offering their benefits to the medical field. In the 21 st century, it is believed that nanotechnology will highly influence our everyday life and dramatically change the world of medicine, including medical imaging. Here we discuss how nanotechnology, which is still in its infancy, can improve Terahertz (THz) imaging, an emerging imaging modality, and how it may find its way into real clinical applications. THz imaging is characterised by the use of non-ionising radiation and although it has the potential to be used in many biomedical fields, it remains in the field of basic research. An extensive review of the recent available literature shows how the current state of this emerging imaging modality can be transformed by nanotechnology. Innovative scientific concepts that use nanotechnology-based techniques to overcome some of the limitations of the use of THz imaging are discussed. We review a number of drawbacks, such as a low contrast mechanism, poor source performance and bulky THz systems, which characterise present THz medical imaging and suggest how they can be overcome through nanotechnology. Better resolution and higher detection sensitivity can also be achieved using nanotechnology techniques. PMID:24555052

THz spectroscopy of D2H+

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, S.; Pearson, J. C.; Amano, T.; Matsushima, F.

2017-01-01

We extended the measurements of the rotational transitions of D2H+ up to 3 THz by using the JPL frequency multiplier chains and a TuFIR system at Toyama. D2H+ was generated in an extended negative glow discharge cell cooled to liquid nitrogen temperature. We observed five new THz lines. All the available rotational transition frequencies together with the combination differences derived from the three fundamental bands were subject to least square analysis to determine the molecular constants. New THz measurements are definitely useful for better characterization of spectroscopic properties. The improved molecular constants provide better predictions of other unobserved rotational transitions.

THz Acoustic Spectroscopy by using Double Quantum Wells and Ultrafast Optical Spectroscopy.

PubMed

Wei, Fan Jun; Yeh, Yu-Hsiang; Sheu, Jinn-Kong; Lin, Kung-Hsuan

2016-06-27

GaN is a pivotal material for acoustic transducers and acoustic spectroscopy in the THz regime, but its THz phonon properties have not been experimentally and comprehensively studied. In this report, we demonstrate how to use double quantum wells as a THz acoustic transducer for measuring generated acoustic phonons and deriving a broadband acoustic spectrum with continuous frequencies. We experimentally investigated the sub-THz frequency dependence of acoustic attenuation (i.e., phonon mean-free paths) in GaN, in addition to its physical origins such as anharmonic scattering, defect scattering, and boundary scattering. A new upper limit of attenuation caused by anharmonic scattering, which is lower than previously reported values, was obtained. Our results should be noteworthy for THz acoustic spectroscopy and for gaining a fundamental understanding of heat conduction.

Polarized micro-Raman studies of femtosecond laser written stress-induced optical waveguides in diamond

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sotillo, B.; Chiappini, A.; Bharadwaj, V.; Hadden, J. P.; Bosia, F.; Olivero, P.; Ferrari, M.; Ramponi, R.; Barclay, P. E.; Eaton, S. M.

2018-01-01

Understanding the physical mechanisms of the refractive index modulation induced by femtosecond laser writing is crucial for tailoring the properties of the resulting optical waveguides. In this work, we apply polarized Raman spectroscopy to study the origin of stress-induced waveguides in diamond, produced by femtosecond laser writing. The change in the refractive index induced by the femtosecond laser in the crystal is derived from the measured stress in the waveguides. The results help to explain the waveguide polarization sensitive guiding mechanism, as well as provide a technique for their optimization.

Limitations to THz generation by optical rectification using tilted pulse fronts.

PubMed

Ravi, Koustuban; Huang, W Ronny; Carbajo, Sergio; Wu, Xiaojun; Kärtner, Franz

2014-08-25

Terahertz (THz) generation by optical rectification (OR) using tilted-pulse-fronts is studied. A one-dimensional (1-D) model which simultaneously accounts for (i) the nonlinear coupled interaction of the THz and optical radiation, (ii) angular and material dispersion, (iii) absorption, iv) self-phase modulation and (v) stimulated Raman scattering is presented. We numerically show that the large experimentally observed cascaded frequency down-shift and spectral broadening (cascading effects) of the optical pump pulse is a direct consequence of THz generation. In the presence of this large spectral broadening, the large angular dispersion associated with tilted-pulse-fronts which is ~15-times larger than material dispersion, accentuates phase mismatch and degrades THz generation. Consequently, this cascading effect in conjunction with angular dispersion is shown to be the strongest limitation to THz generation in lithium niobate for pumping at 1 µm. It is seen that the exclusion of these cascading effects in modeling OR, leads to a significant overestimation of the optical-to-THz conversion efficiency. The results are verified with calculations based on a 2-D spatial model. The simulation results are supported by experiments.

Magnetoquantum Oscillations at THz Frequencies in InSb.

PubMed

Gogoi, P; Kamenskyi, D; Arslanov, D D; Jongma, R T; van der Zande, W J; Redlich, B; van der Meer, A F G; Engelkamp, H; Christianen, P C M; Maan, J C

2017-10-06

The ac magnetoconductance of bulk InSb at THz frequencies in high magnetic fields, as measured by the transmission of THz radiation, shows a field-induced transmission, which at high temperatures (≈100  K) is well explained with classical magnetoplasma effects (helicon waves). However, at low temperatures (4 K), the transmitted radiation intensity shows magnetoquantum oscillations that represent the Shubnikov-de Haas effect at THz frequencies. At frequencies above 0.9 THz, when the radiation period is shorter than the Drude scattering time, an anomalously high transmission is observed in the magnetic quantum limit that can be interpreted as carrier localization at high frequencies.

Magnetoquantum Oscillations at THz Frequencies in InSb

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gogoi, P.; Kamenskyi, D.; Arslanov, D. D.; Jongma, R. T.; van der Zande, W. J.; Redlich, B.; van der Meer, A. F. G.; Engelkamp, H.; Christianen, P. C. M.; Maan, J. C.

2017-10-01

The ac magnetoconductance of bulk InSb at THz frequencies in high magnetic fields, as measured by the transmission of THz radiation, shows a field-induced transmission, which at high temperatures (≈100 K ) is well explained with classical magnetoplasma effects (helicon waves). However, at low temperatures (4 K), the transmitted radiation intensity shows magnetoquantum oscillations that represent the Shubnikov-de Haas effect at THz frequencies. At frequencies above 0.9 THz, when the radiation period is shorter than the Drude scattering time, an anomalously high transmission is observed in the magnetic quantum limit that can be interpreted as carrier localization at high frequencies.

Studies of nonlinear femtosecond pulse propagation in bulk materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eaton, Hilary Kaye

2000-10-01

Femtosecond pulse lasers are finding widespread application in a variety of fields including medical research, optical switching and communications, plasma formation, high harmonic generation, and wavepacket formation and control. As the number of applications for femtosecond pulses increases, so does the need to fully understand the linear and nonlinear processes involved in propagating these pulses through materials under various conditions. Recent advances in pulse measurement techniques, such as frequency-resolved optical gating (FROG), allow measurement of the full electric field of the pulse and have made detailed investigations of short- pulse propagation effects feasible. In this thesis, I present detailed experimental studies of my work involving nonlinear propagation of femtosecond pulses in bulk media. Studies of plane-wave propagation in fused silica extend the SHG form of FROG from a simple pulse diagnostic to a useful method of interrogating the nonlinear response of a material. Studies of nonlinear propagation are also performed in a regime where temporal pulse splitting occurs. Experimental results are compared with a three- dimensional nonlinear Schrödinger equation. This comparison fuels the development of a more complete model for pulse splitting. Experiments are also performed at peak input powers above those at which pulse splitting is observed. At these higher intensities, a broadband continuum is generated. This work presents a detailed study of continuum behavior and power loss as well as the first near-field spatial- spectral measurements of the generated continuum light. Nonlinear plane-wave propagation of short pulses in liquids is also investigated, and a non-instantaneous nonlinearity with a surprisingly short response time of 10 fs is observed in methanol. Experiments in water confirm that this effect in methanol is indeed real. Possible explanations for the observed effect are discussed and several are experimentally rejected. This

THz Pulse Detection by Multilayered GeTe/Sb2Te3.

PubMed

Makino, Kotaro; Kuromiya, Shota; Takano, Keisuke; Kato, Kosaku; Nakajima, Makoto; Saito, Yuta; Tominaga, Junji; Iida, Hitoshi; Kinoshita, Moto; Nakano, Takashi

2016-11-30

We proposed and demonstrated terahertz (THz) pulse detection by means of multilayered GeTe/Sb 2 Te 3 phase-change memory materials that are also known as a multilayer topological insulator-normal insulator (MTN) system. THz time-domain spectroscopy measurement was performed for MTN films with different multilayer repetitions as well as a conventional as-grown Ge-Te-Sb (GST) alloy film. It was found that MTNs absorb THz waves and that the absorption coefficient depends on the number of layers, while the as-grown GST alloy film was almost transparent for THz waves. Simple MTN-based THz detection devices were fabricated, and the THz-induced change in the current signal was measured when a DC bias voltage was applied between the electrodes. We confirmed that irradiation of THz pulse causes a decrease in the resistance of the MTNs. This result indicates that our devices are capable of THz detection.

[The Study on the Far-FTIR and THz Spectra of Azitromycin Drugs with Different Physical Forms].

PubMed

Yang, Yu-ping; Fan, Li-jie; Cui, Bin; Chen, Gen-xiang; Zhang, Zhen-wei; Zhang, Cun-lin

2015-11-01

Far Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (Far-FTIR) and terahertz time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) were used to measure the fingerprint spectra of Azitromycin suspension, capsule, tablet and dispersible tablet under vacuum and nitrogen conditions, respectively. In the frequency range of 0.2-15 THz, highly resolved spectral features for Azitromycin suspension were measured and some minor differences were observed between domestic and exotic Azitromycin Suspension, such as linewidth broadening and additional peaks. As same time, for the domestic Azitromycin capsule, tablet and dispersible tablet, the absorption baselines in the range of 0.2-2.7 THz rise with the increase of frequency while absorption peaks become weaker due to the scattering of bigger particles and smaller amount of Azitromycin. Also, the additional peaks are caused by the absorption of filling materials. In parallel with the qualitative measurement, the THz absorption spectra for mixtures of polyethylene (PE) powders and exotic Azithomycin suspension with different concentrations were also measured. According to the linear correlation between the concentration and the absorption intensity, the concentration of effective component can be evaluated accurately. This means that THz-TDS method is suitable for the quality inspection and evaluation of the mixed Azithromycin system.

THz-circuits driven by photo-thermoelectric, gate-tunable graphene-junctions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brenneis, Andreas; Schade, Felix; Drieschner, Simon; Heimbach, Florian; Karl, Helmut; Garrido, Jose A.; Holleitner, Alexander W.

2016-10-01

For future on-chip communication schemes, it is essential to integrate nanoscale materials with an ultrafast optoelectronic functionality into high-frequency circuits. The atomically thin graphene has been widely demonstrated to be suitable for photovoltaic and optoelectronic devices because of its broadband optical absorption and its high electron mobility. Moreover, the ultrafast relaxation of photogenerated charge carriers has been verified in graphene. Here, we show that dual-gated graphene junctions can be functional parts of THz-circuits. As the underlying optoelectronic process, we exploit ultrafast photo-thermoelectric currents. We describe an immediate photo-thermoelectric current of the unbiased device following a femtosecond laser excitation. For a picosecond time-scale after the optical excitation, an additional photo-thermoelectric contribution shows up, which exhibits the fingerprint of a spatially inverted temperature profile. The latter can be understood by the different time-constants and thermal coupling mechanisms of the electron and phonon baths within graphene to the substrate and the metal contacts. The interplay of the processes gives rise to ultrafast electromagnetic transients in high-frequency circuits, and it is equally important for a fundamental understanding of graphene-based ultrafast photodetectors and switches.

THz-circuits driven by photo-thermoelectric, gate-tunable graphene-junctions

PubMed Central

Brenneis, Andreas; Schade, Felix; Drieschner, Simon; Heimbach, Florian; Karl, Helmut; Garrido, Jose A.; Holleitner, Alexander W.

2016-01-01

For future on-chip communication schemes, it is essential to integrate nanoscale materials with an ultrafast optoelectronic functionality into high-frequency circuits. The atomically thin graphene has been widely demonstrated to be suitable for photovoltaic and optoelectronic devices because of its broadband optical absorption and its high electron mobility. Moreover, the ultrafast relaxation of photogenerated charge carriers has been verified in graphene. Here, we show that dual-gated graphene junctions can be functional parts of THz-circuits. As the underlying optoelectronic process, we exploit ultrafast photo-thermoelectric currents. We describe an immediate photo-thermoelectric current of the unbiased device following a femtosecond laser excitation. For a picosecond time-scale after the optical excitation, an additional photo-thermoelectric contribution shows up, which exhibits the fingerprint of a spatially inverted temperature profile. The latter can be understood by the different time-constants and thermal coupling mechanisms of the electron and phonon baths within graphene to the substrate and the metal contacts. The interplay of the processes gives rise to ultrafast electromagnetic transients in high-frequency circuits, and it is equally important for a fundamental understanding of graphene-based ultrafast photodetectors and switches. PMID:27762291

THz-circuits driven by photo-thermoelectric, gate-tunable graphene-junctions.

PubMed

Brenneis, Andreas; Schade, Felix; Drieschner, Simon; Heimbach, Florian; Karl, Helmut; Garrido, Jose A; Holleitner, Alexander W

2016-10-20

For future on-chip communication schemes, it is essential to integrate nanoscale materials with an ultrafast optoelectronic functionality into high-frequency circuits. The atomically thin graphene has been widely demonstrated to be suitable for photovoltaic and optoelectronic devices because of its broadband optical absorption and its high electron mobility. Moreover, the ultrafast relaxation of photogenerated charge carriers has been verified in graphene. Here, we show that dual-gated graphene junctions can be functional parts of THz-circuits. As the underlying optoelectronic process, we exploit ultrafast photo-thermoelectric currents. We describe an immediate photo-thermoelectric current of the unbiased device following a femtosecond laser excitation. For a picosecond time-scale after the optical excitation, an additional photo-thermoelectric contribution shows up, which exhibits the fingerprint of a spatially inverted temperature profile. The latter can be understood by the different time-constants and thermal coupling mechanisms of the electron and phonon baths within graphene to the substrate and the metal contacts. The interplay of the processes gives rise to ultrafast electromagnetic transients in high-frequency circuits, and it is equally important for a fundamental understanding of graphene-based ultrafast photodetectors and switches.

Highly-Sensitive Thin Film THz Detector Based on Edge Metal-Semiconductor-Metal Junction.

PubMed

Jeon, Youngeun; Jung, Sungchul; Jin, Hanbyul; Mo, Kyuhyung; Kim, Kyung Rok; Park, Wook-Ki; Han, Seong-Tae; Park, Kibog

2017-12-04

Terahertz (THz) detectors have been extensively studied for various applications such as security, wireless communication, and medical imaging. In case of metal-insulator-metal (MIM) tunnel junction THz detector, a small junction area is desirable because the detector response time can be shortened by reducing it. An edge metal-semiconductor-metal (EMSM) junction has been developed with a small junction area controlled precisely by the thicknesses of metal and semiconductor films. The voltage response of the EMSM THz detector shows the clear dependence on the polarization angle of incident THz wave and the responsivity is found to be very high (~2,169 V/W) at 0.4 THz without any antenna and signal amplifier. The EMSM junction structure can be a new and efficient way of fabricating the nonlinear device THz detector with high cut-off frequency relying on extremely small junction area.

Active THz inspection of water content in plants

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Etayo, D.; Iriarte, J. C.; Palacios, I.; Teniente, J.; Ederra, I.; Gonzalo, R.

2010-04-01

The THz range offers the possibility of measuring water content. This can be useful in wine industry to control plants water levels and also to decrease irrigation costs. This paper presents a THz imaging system used to characterise water content in leaves using frequency and time domain methods from 0.14 to 0.22 THz. Our results show the possibility of getting useful information out of the preformed measurements.

THz QCL self-mixing interferometry for biomedical applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rakić, Aleksandar D.; Taimre, Thomas; Bertling, Karl; Lim, Yah Leng; Wilson, Stephen J.; Nikolić, Milan; Valavanis, Alexander; Indjin, Dragan; Linfield, Edmund H.; Davies, A. Giles; Ferguson, Blake; Walker, Graeme; Schaider, Helmut; Soyer, H. Peter

2014-09-01

In this paper, we introduce the self-mixing phenomenon in terahertz quantum cascade lasers (THz QCLs) and present recent advancements in the development of coherent THz imaging and sensing systems that exploit the self-mixing effect. We describe an imaging method which utilises the interferometric nature of optical feedback in a THz QCL to employ it as a homodyning transceiver. This results in a highly sensitive and compact scheme. Due to the inherently low penetration depth of THz radiation in hydrated biological tissue, imaging of superficial skin is an ideal application for this technique. We present results for imaging of excised skin tissue, showing high-contrast between different tissue types and pathologies.

[Application of THz technology to nondestructive detection of agricultural product quality].

PubMed

Jiang, Yu-ying; Ge, Hong-yi; Lian, Fei-yu; Zhang, Yuan; Xia, Shan-hong

2014-08-01

With recent development of THz sources and detector, applications of THz radiation to nondestructive testing and quality control have expanded in many fields, such as agriculture, safety inspection and quality control, medicine, biochemistry, communication etc. Compared with other detection technique, being a new kind of technique, THz radiation has low energy, good perspectivity, and high signal-to-noise ratio, and thus can obtain physical, chemical and biological information. This paper first introduces the basic concept of THz radiation and the major properties, then gives an extensive review of recent research progress in detection of the quality of agricultural products via THz technique, analyzes the existing shortcomings of THz detection and discusses the outlook of potential application, finally proposes the new application of THz technique to detection of quality of stored grain.

3D-printed phase waveplates for THz beam shaping

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gospodaric, J.; Kuzmenko, A.; Pimenov, Anna; Huber, C.; Suess, D.; Rotter, S.; Pimenov, A.

2018-05-01

The advancement of 3D-printing opens up a new way of constructing affordable custom terahertz (THz) components due to suitable printing resolution and THz transparency of polymer materials. We present a way of calculating, designing, and fabricating a THz waveplate that phase-modulates an incident THz beam (λ0 = 2.14 mm) in order to create a predefined intensity profile of the optical wavefront on a distant image plane. Our calculations were performed for two distinct target intensities with the use of a modified Gerchberg-Saxton algorithm. The resulting phase-modulating profiles were used to model the polylactide elements, which were printed out with a commercially available 3D-printer. The results were tested in a THz experimental setup equipped with a scanning option, and they showed good agreement with theoretical predictions.

THz Medical Imaging: in vivo Hydration Sensing

PubMed Central

Taylor, Zachary D.; Singh, Rahul S.; Bennett, David B.; Tewari, Priyamvada; Kealey, Colin P.; Bajwa, Neha; Culjat, Martin O.; Stojadinovic, Alexander; Lee, Hua; Hubschman, Jean-Pierre; Brown, Elliott R.; Grundfest, Warren S.

2015-01-01

The application of THz to medical imaging is experiencing a surge in both interest and federal funding. A brief overview of the field is provided along with promising and emerging applications and ongoing research. THz imaging phenomenology is discussed and tradeoffs are identified. A THz medical imaging system, operating at ~525 GHz center frequency with ~125 GHz of response normalized bandwidth is introduced and details regarding principles of operation are provided. Two promising medical applications of THz imaging are presented: skin burns and cornea. For burns, images of second degree, partial thickness burns were obtained in rat models in vivo over an 8 hour period. These images clearly show the formation and progression of edema in and around the burn wound area. For cornea, experimental data measuring the hydration of ex vivo porcine cornea under drying is presented demonstrating utility in ophthalmologic applications. PMID:26085958

Control of Terahertz Emission by Ultrafast Spin-Charge Current Conversion at Rashba Interfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jungfleisch, Matthias B.; Zhang, Qi; Zhang, Wei; Pearson, John E.; Schaller, Richard D.; Wen, Haidan; Hoffmann, Axel

2018-05-01

We show that a femtosecond spin-current pulse can generate terahertz (THz) transients at Rashba interfaces between two nonmagnetic materials. Our results unambiguously demonstrate the importance of the interface in this conversion process that we interpret in terms of the inverse Rashba Edelstein effect, in contrast to the THz emission in the bulk conversion process via the inverse spin-Hall effect. Furthermore, we show that at Rashba interfaces the THz-field amplitude can be controlled by the helicity of the light. The optical generation of electric photocurrents by these interfacial effects in the femtosecond regime will open up new opportunities in ultrafast spintronics.

Control of Terahertz Emission by Ultrafast Spin-Charge Current Conversion at Rashba Interfaces.

PubMed

Jungfleisch, Matthias B; Zhang, Qi; Zhang, Wei; Pearson, John E; Schaller, Richard D; Wen, Haidan; Hoffmann, Axel

2018-05-18

We show that a femtosecond spin-current pulse can generate terahertz (THz) transients at Rashba interfaces between two nonmagnetic materials. Our results unambiguously demonstrate the importance of the interface in this conversion process that we interpret in terms of the inverse Rashba Edelstein effect, in contrast to the THz emission in the bulk conversion process via the inverse spin-Hall effect. Furthermore, we show that at Rashba interfaces the THz-field amplitude can be controlled by the helicity of the light. The optical generation of electric photocurrents by these interfacial effects in the femtosecond regime will open up new opportunities in ultrafast spintronics.

Perspective: THz-driven nuclear dynamics from solids to molecules.

PubMed

Hamm, Peter; Meuwly, Markus; Johnson, Steve L; Beaud, Paul; Staub, Urs

2017-11-01

Recent years have seen dramatic developments in the technology of intense pulsed light sources in the THz frequency range. Since many dipole-active excitations in solids and molecules also lie in this range, there is now a tremendous potential to use these light sources to study linear and nonlinear dynamics in such systems. While several experimental investigations of THz-driven dynamics in solid-state systems have demonstrated a variety of interesting linear and nonlinear phenomena, comparatively few efforts have been made to drive analogous dynamics in molecular systems. In the present Perspective article, we discuss the similarities and differences between THz-driven dynamics in solid-state and molecular systems on both conceptual and practical levels. We also discuss the experimental parameters needed for these types of experiments and thereby provide design criteria for a further development of this new research branch. Finally, we present a few recent examples to illustrate the rich physics that may be learned from nonlinear THz excitations of phonons in solids as well as inter-molecular vibrations in liquid and gas-phase systems.

Perspective: THz-driven nuclear dynamics from solids to molecules

PubMed Central

Hamm, Peter; Meuwly, Markus; Johnson, Steve L.; Beaud, Paul; Staub, Urs

2017-01-01

Recent years have seen dramatic developments in the technology of intense pulsed light sources in the THz frequency range. Since many dipole-active excitations in solids and molecules also lie in this range, there is now a tremendous potential to use these light sources to study linear and nonlinear dynamics in such systems. While several experimental investigations of THz-driven dynamics in solid-state systems have demonstrated a variety of interesting linear and nonlinear phenomena, comparatively few efforts have been made to drive analogous dynamics in molecular systems. In the present Perspective article, we discuss the similarities and differences between THz-driven dynamics in solid-state and molecular systems on both conceptual and practical levels. We also discuss the experimental parameters needed for these types of experiments and thereby provide design criteria for a further development of this new research branch. Finally, we present a few recent examples to illustrate the rich physics that may be learned from nonlinear THz excitations of phonons in solids as well as inter-molecular vibrations in liquid and gas-phase systems. PMID:29308420

Highly efficient quantum dot-based photoconductive THz materials and devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rafailov, E. U.; Leyman, R.; Carnegie, D.; Bazieva, N.

2013-09-01

We demonstrate Terahertz (THz) signal sources based on photoconductive (PC) antenna devices comprising active layers of InAs semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) on GaAs. Antenna structures comprised of multiple active layers of InAs:GaAs PC materials are optically pumped using ultrashort pulses generated by a Ti:Sapphire laser and CW dualwavelength laser diodes. We also characterised THz output signals using a two-antenna coherent detection system. We discuss preliminary performance data from such InAs:GaAs THz devices which exhibit efficient emission of both pulsed and continuous wave (CW) THz signals and significant optical-to-THz conversion at both absorption wavelength ranges, <=850 nm and <=1300 nm.

THz computed tomography system with zero-order Bessel beam

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Niu, Liting; Wu, Qiao; Wang, Kejia; Liu, Jinsong; Yang, Zhengang

2018-01-01

Terahertz (THz) waves can penetrate many optically opaque dielectric materials such as plastics, ceramics and colorants. It is effective to reveal the internal structures of these materials. We have built a THz Computed Tomography (CT) system with 0.3 THz zero-order Bessel beam to improve the depth of focus of this imaging system for the non-diffraction property of Bessel beam. The THz CT system has been used to detect a paper cup with a metal rod inside. Finally, the acquired projection data have been processed by the filtered back-projection algorithm and the reconstructed image of the sample has been obtained.

Strong terahertz field generation, detection, and application

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kim, Ki-Yong

2016-05-22

This report describes the generation and detection of high-power, broadband terahertz (THz) radiation with using femtosecond terawatt (TW) laser systems. In particular, this focuses on two-color laser mixing in gases as a scalable THz source, addressing both microscopic and macroscopic effects governing its output THz yield and radiation profile. This also includes the characterization of extremely broad THz spectra extending from microwaves to infrared frequencies. Experimentally, my group has generated high-energy (tens of microjoule), intense (>8 MV/cm), and broadband (0.01~60 THz) THz radiation in two-color laser mixing in air. Such an intense THz field can be utilized to study THz-drivenmore » extremely nonlinear phenomena in a university laboratory.« less

Strong terahertz field generation, detection, and application

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kim, Ki-Yong

2016-05-15

This report describes the generation and detection of high-power, broadband terahertz (THz) radiation with using femtosecond terawatt (TW) laser systems. In particular, this focuses on two-color laser mixing in gases as a scalable THz source, addressing both microscopic and macroscopic effects governing its output THz yield and radiation profile. This also includes the characterization of extremely broad THz spectra extending from microwaves to infrared frequencies. Experimentally, my group has generated high-energy (tens of microjoule), intense (>8 MV/cm), and broadband (0.01~60 THz) THz radiation in two-color laser mixing in air. Such an intense THz field can be utilized to study THz-drivenmore » extremely nonlinear phenomena in a university laboratory.« less

THz-wave generation via stimulated polariton scattering in KTiOAsO4 crystal.

PubMed

Wang, Weitao; Cong, Zhenhua; Liu, Zhaojun; Zhang, Xingyu; Qin, Zengguang; Tang, Guanqi; Li, Ning; Zhang, Yuangeng; Lu, Qingming

2014-07-14

A terahertz parametric oscillator based on KTiOAsO(4) crystal is demonstrated for the first time. With the near-forward scattering configuration X(ZZ)X + Δφ, the polarizations of the pump, the Stokes and the generated THz waves are parallel to the z-axis of the crystal KTA. When the incident angle θext of the pump wave is changed from 1.875° to 6.500°, the THz wave is intermittently tuned from 3.59 to 3.96 THz, from 4.21 to 4.50 THz, from 4.90 to 5.16 THz, from 5.62 to 5.66 THz and from 5.92 to 6.43 THz. The obtained maximum THz wave energy is 627 nJ at 4.30 THz with a pump energy of 100 mJ. It is believed that the terahertz wave generation is caused by the stimulated scattering of the polaritons associated with the most intensive transverse A(1) mode of 233.8 cm(-1). Four much weaker transverse A(1) modes of 132.9 cm(-1), 156.3 cm(-1),175.1 cm(-1), and 188.4 cm(-1) cause four frequency gaps, from 3.97 THz to 4.20 THz, from 4.51 to 4.89 THz, from 5.17 to 5.61 THz and from 5.67 to 5.91 THz, respectively.

Single mode to dual mode switch through a THz reconfigurable metamaterial

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Wu; Zhang, Meng; Yan, Zongkai; Zhao, Xin; Cheng, Jianping; Liu, Ai Qun

2017-12-01

Metamaterials interact with incident electromagnetic waves through their consisting subwavelength metamolecules. In this paper, we reported a reconfigurable metamaterial which tunes its THz response experimentally from a single mode resonance at 2.99 THz to a dual mode resonance at 2.94 THz and 2.99 THz. The reconfiguration is realized through a micromachined actuator, and the tunability is achieved by breaking the symmetry of the metamolecule. An abrupt change in the transmission is experimentally observed when the gap between two metallic structures is closed, and a decrease in transmission from 40% to 5% at 2.94 THz is obtained. Such a tunable metamaterial promises widespread applications in optical switches, filters, and THz detectors.

The THz time domain spectra of SrB4O7 crystal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Yali; Hou, Bihui; Wang, Haiyan; Zhao, Guozhong; Shi, Yishi

2010-11-01

SrB4O7 (SBO) is a promising nonlinear optical crystal. It has the orthorhombic structure with group classified as Pnm2. The sample for the experiment was cut along the (001) plane and twin polishing with 1.632mm thickness. It exhibits a wider transparency range from UV to far-IR. And its absorption edge lies at 160nm. The forbidden band gap is about 7.76eV. The THz spectra of SBO crystal had been studied from 0.1 to 2.5THz. The THz time domain spectrum of SBO shows the strong resonance characters. In THz experiment, the vertical incident electromagnetic waves radiate the polished side twice along (001) orientation. The crystal turned 90 degrees relative to the first in the vertical direction. There are different optical properties in two directions. We gained the curves of the refractive index and absorption coefficient dependence of frequency in the region of 0.1-2.5THz. The absorption curves shows opposite parabola character. One is upward opening and the largest absorption coefficient is 10cm-1. The other is down opening and the less absorption coefficient is 1cm-1. The refractive index n is stable linear with frequency and it is 3 from 0.4THz to 2.5THz. But the refractive index of two directions shows the opposite tendency from 0.1 to 0.4THz. The reason of the difference is that polarized beam radiates the orthorhombic crystal. The properties of the sample show that it is possible to apply it to laser field.

THz pulses from 4th generation X-ray light sources: Perspectives for fully synchronized THz pump X-ray probe experiments

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Gensch, M.

2010-02-03

In this paper the prospects of terahertz (THz) pulses generated at 4th generation X-ray light sources are presented on the example of recent results from a prototype set-up at the soft X-ray FEL FLASH. It is shown, that the THz pulses from the relativistic ultra short electron bunches have unique properties, that at FLASH are utilized for novel THz pump X-ray probe experiments with a robust few fs resolution. Based on these experiences it is discussed, how future facilities can benefit from implementation of similar or further improved instrumentation.

Commercial perspective in THz spectroscopy, sensing and imaging (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bouyé, Clémentine; Taoudi, Sarah; Cochard, Jacques; d'Humières, Benoît

2017-02-01

For their ability to be transmitted by materials opaque in the visible and IR ranges (clothes, plastic, …), for being non-ionizing, for providing sub-mm resolution imaging, for the specific signatures of numerous materials, Terahertz waves - ranging from 200 GHz to 10 THz - have been raising the interest of industrials for about fifteen years. This study focuses on the penetration of THz technologies into the industrial applications driving the THz market growth at short and long term: Non Destructive testing (NDT), Defense and Security, Biomedical. For 15 years, Terahertz technologies have been continuously tested on a wide variety of applications. Thanks to these ongoing feasibility studies, manufacturers and end-users gained a deeper knowledge about the abilities and the limitations of the different Terahertz systems (Time-Domain spectroscopy, Frequency-Domain spectroscopy, Time-Domain reflectometry, etc). The demand from end-users is more qualified and is segmented as follows: 1. Detection of objects and defects on large areas 2. Thickness measurement on large areas 3. Chemical and Structural characterization of small objects and defects on small areas (2D) or volumes (3D) Each of these 3 functions leads to a specific family of THz systems with distinct requirements in terms of performance and cost: 1. Detection: cheap and compact imaging systems. 2. Thickness measurement: cost-effective and high speed systems. 3. Characterization: high resolution, high reliability and real-time sensing systems. This article will present the existing and incoming THz systems and components addressing each function. Terahertz technologies are currently finding their place on the market, outside research and scientific applications. The objective of this article is to identify the industrial applications where THz techniques will be adopted and to provide market growth perspectives.

Subwavelength InSb-based Slot wavguides for THz transport: concept and practical implementations.

PubMed

Ma, Youqiao; Zhou, Jun; Pištora, Jaromír; Eldlio, Mohamed; Nguyen-Huu, Nghia; Maeda, Hiroshi; Wu, Qiang; Cada, Michael

2016-12-07

Seeking better surface plasmon polariton (SPP) waveguides is of critical importance to construct the frequency-agile terahertz (THz) front-end circuits. We propose and investigate here a new class of semiconductor-based slot plasmonic waveguides for subwavelength THz transport. Optimizations of the key geometrical parameters demonstrate its better guiding properties for simultaneous realization of long propagation lengths (up to several millimeters) and ultra-tight mode confinement (~λ 2 /530) in the THz spectral range. The feasibility of the waveguide for compact THz components is also studied to lay the foundations for its practical implementations. Importantly, the waveguide is compatible with the current complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) fabrication technique. We believe the proposed waveguide configuration could offer a potential for developing a CMOS plasmonic platform and can be designed into various components for future integrated THz circuits (ITCs).

Revealing plasma oscillation in THz spectrum from laser plasma of molecular jet.

PubMed

Li, Na; Bai, Ya; Miao, Tianshi; Liu, Peng; Li, Ruxin; Xu, Zhizhan

2016-10-03

Contribution of plasma oscillation to the broadband terahertz (THz) emission is revealed by interacting two-color (ω/2ω) laser pulses with a supersonic jet of nitrogen molecules. Temporal and spectral shifts of THz waves are observed as the plasma density varies. The former owes to the changing refractive index of the THz waves, and the latter correlates to the varying plasma frequency. Simulation of considering photocurrents, plasma oscillation and decaying plasma density explains the broadband THz spectrum and the varying THz spectrum. Plasma oscillation only contributes to THz waves at low plasma density owing to negligible plasma absorption. At the longer medium or higher density, the combining effects of plasma oscillation and absorption results in the observed low-frequency broadband THz spectra.

High-efficiency THz modulator based on phthalocyanine-compound organic films

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

He, Ting; Zhang, Bo, E-mail: bzhang@cnu.edu.cn, E-mail: sjl-phy@cnu.edu.cn; Shen, Jingling, E-mail: bzhang@cnu.edu.cn, E-mail: sjl-phy@cnu.edu.cn

2015-02-02

We report a high efficiency, broadband terahertz (THz) modulator following a study of phthalocyanine-compound organic films irradiated with an external excitation laser. Both transmission and reflection modulations of each organic/silicon bilayers were measured using THz time-domain and continuous-wave systems. For very low intensities, the experimental results show that AlClPc/Si can achieve a high modulation factor for transmission and reflection, indicating that AlClPc/Si has a superior modulation efficiency compared with the other films (CuPc and SnCl{sub 2}Pc). In contrast, the strong attenuation of the transmitted and reflected THz waves revealed that a nonlinear absorption process takes place at the organic/silicon interface.

Measuring THz QCL feedback using an integrated monolithic transceiver.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wanke, Michael Clement

2010-08-01

THz quantum cascade lasers are of interest for use as solid-state local-oscillators in THz heterodyne receiver systems, especially for frequencies exceeding 2 THz and for use with non-cryogenic mixers which require mW power levels. Among other criteria, to be a good local oscillator, the laser must have a narrow linewidth and excellent frequency stability. Recent phase locking measurements of THz QCLs to high harmonics of microwave frequency reference sources as high as 2.7 THz demonstrate that the linewidth and frequency stability of QCLs can be more than adequate. Most reported THz receivers employing QCLs have used discrete source and detectormore » components coupled via mechanically aligned free-space quasioptics. Unfortunately, retroreflections of the laser off of the detecting element can lead to deleterious feedback effects. Using a monolithically integrated transceiver with a Schottky diode monolithically integrated into a THz QCL, we have begun to explore the sensitivity of the laser performance to feedback due to retroreflections of the THz laser radiation. The transceiver allows us to monitor the beat frequency between internal Fabry-Perot modes of the QCL or between a QCL mode and external radiation incident on the transceiver. When some of the power from a free running Fabry-Perot type QCL is retroreflected with quasi-static optics we observe frequency pulling, mode splitting and chaos. Given the lack of calibrated frequency sources with sufficient stability and power to phase lock a QCL above a couple THz, attempts have been made to lock the absolute laser frequency by locking the beat frequency of a multimoded laser. We have phase locked the beat frequency between Fabry-Perot modes to an {approx}13 GHz microwave reference source with a linewidth less than 1 Hz, but did not see any improvment in stability of the absolute frequency of the laser. In this case, when some laser power is retroreflected back into the laser, the absolute frequency can be

Enhanced tunable narrow-band THz emission from laser-modulated electron beams

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Xiang, D.; Stupakov, G.; /SLAC

2009-06-19

We propose and analyze a scheme to generate enhanced narrow-band terahertz (THz) radiation through down-conversion of the frequency of optical lasers using laser-modulated electron beams. In the scheme the electron beam is first energy modulated by two lasers with wave numbers k{sub 1} and k2, respectively. After passing through a dispersion section, the energy modulation is converted to density modulation. Due to the nonlinear conversion process, the beam will have density modulation at wave number k = nk{sub 1} + mk{sub 2}, where n and m are positive or negative integers. By properly choosing the parameters for the lasers andmore » dispersion section, one can generate density modulation at THz frequency in the beam using optical lasers. This density-modulated beam can be used to generate powerful narrow-band THz radiation. Since the THz radiation is in tight synchronization with the lasers, it should provide a high temporal resolution for the optical-pump THz-probe experiments. The central frequency of the THz radiation can be easily tuned by varying the wavelength of the two lasers and the energy chirp of the electron beam. The proposed scheme is in principle able to generate intense narrow-band THz radiation covering the whole THz range and offers a promising way towards the tunable intense narrow-band THz sources.« less

Nanoscale electron manipulation in metals with intense THz electric fields

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takeda, Jun; Yoshioka, Katsumasa; Minami, Yasuo; Katayama, Ikufumi

2018-03-01

Improved control over the electromagnetic properties of metals on a nanoscale is crucial for the development of next-generation nanoelectronics and plasmonic devices. Harnessing the terahertz (THz)-electric-field-induced nonlinearity for the motion of electrons is a promising method of manipulating the local electromagnetic properties of metals, while avoiding undesirable thermal effects and electronic transitions. In this review, we demonstrate the manipulation of electron delocalization in ultrathin gold (Au) films with nanostructures, by intense THz electric-field transients. On increasing the electric-field strength of the THz pulses, the transmittance in the THz-frequency region abruptly decreases around the percolation threshold. The observed THz-electric-field-induced nonlinearity is analysed, based on the Drude-Smith model. The results suggest that ultrafast electron delocalization occurs by electron tunnelling across the narrow insulating bridge between the Au nanostructures, without material breakdown. In order to quantitatively discuss the tunnelling process, we perform scanning tunnelling microscopy with carrier-envelope phase (CEP)-controlled single-cycle THz electric fields. By applying CEP-controlled THz electric fields to the 1 nm nanogap between a metal nanotip and graphite sample, many electrons could be coherently driven through the quantum tunnelling process, either from the nanotip to the sample or vice versa. The presented concept, namely, electron tunnelling mediated by CEP-controlled single-cycle THz electric fields, can facilitate the development of nanoscale electron manipulation, applicable to next-generation ultrafast nanoelectronics and plasmonic devices.

High precision spectroscopy and imaging in THz frequency range

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vaks, Vladimir L.

2014-03-01

Application of microwave methods for development of the THz frequency range has resulted in elaboration of high precision THz spectrometers based on nonstationary effects. The spectrometers characteristics (spectral resolution and sensitivity) meet the requirements for high precision analysis. The gas analyzers, based on the high precision spectrometers, have been successfully applied for analytical investigations of gas impurities in high pure substances. These investigations can be carried out both in absorption cell and in reactor. The devices can be used for ecological monitoring, detecting the components of chemical weapons and explosive in the atmosphere. The great field of THz investigations is the medicine application. Using the THz spectrometers developed one can detect markers for some diseases in exhaled air.

Control of Terahertz Emission by Ultrafast Spin-Charge Current Conversion at Rashba Interfaces

DOE PAGES

Jungfleisch, Matthias B.; Zhang, Qi; Zhang, Wei; ...

2018-05-18

Here, we show that a femtosecond spin-current pulse can generate terahertz (THz) transients at Rashba interfaces between two nonmagnetic materials. Our results unambiguously demonstrate the importance of the interface in this conversion process that we interpret in terms of the inverse Rashba Edelstein effect, in contrast to the THz emission in the bulk conversion process via the inverse spin-Hall effect. Furthermore, we show that at Rashba interfaces the THz-field amplitude can be controlled by the helicity of the light. The optical generation of electric photocurrents by these interfacial effects in the femtosecond regime will open up new opportunities in ultrafastmore » spintronics.« less

Control of Terahertz Emission by Ultrafast Spin-Charge Current Conversion at Rashba Interfaces

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Jungfleisch, Matthias B.; Zhang, Qi; Zhang, Wei

Here, we show that a femtosecond spin-current pulse can generate terahertz (THz) transients at Rashba interfaces between two nonmagnetic materials. Our results unambiguously demonstrate the importance of the interface in this conversion process that we interpret in terms of the inverse Rashba Edelstein effect, in contrast to the THz emission in the bulk conversion process via the inverse spin-Hall effect. Furthermore, we show that at Rashba interfaces the THz-field amplitude can be controlled by the helicity of the light. The optical generation of electric photocurrents by these interfacial effects in the femtosecond regime will open up new opportunities in ultrafastmore » spintronics.« less

Nonphasematched broadband THz amplification and reshaping in a dispersive chi(3) medium.

PubMed

Koys, Martin; Noskovicova, Eva; Velic, Dusan; Lorenc, Dusan

2017-06-12

We theoretically investigate non-phasematched broadband THz amplification in dispersive chi(3) media. A short 100 fs pump pulse is interacting with a temporally matched second harmonic pulse and a weak THz signal through the four wave mixing process and a significant broadband THz amplification and reshaping is observed. The pulse evolution dynamics is explored by numerically solving a set of generalized Nonlinear Schroedinger equations. The influence of incident pulse chirp, pulse duration and the role of wavelength, THz seed frequency and losses are evaluated separately. It is found that a careful choice of incident parameters can provide a broadband THz output and/or a significant increase of THz peak power.

Biological effects of in vitro THz radiation exposure in human foetal fibroblasts.

PubMed

De Amicis, Andrea; Sanctis, Stefania De; Cristofaro, Sara Di; Franchini, Valeria; Lista, Florigio; Regalbuto, Elisa; Giovenale, Emilio; Gallerano, Gian Piero; Nenzi, Paolo; Bei, Roberto; Fantini, Massimo; Benvenuto, Monica; Masuelli, Laura; Coluzzi, Elisa; Cicia, Cristina; Sgura, Antonella

2015-11-01

In recent years, terahertz (THz) radiation has been widely used in a variety of applications: medical, security, telecommunications and military areas. However, few data are available on the biological effects of this type of electromagnetic radiation and the reported results, using different genetic or cellular assays, are quite discordant. This multidisciplinary study focuses on potential genotoxic and cytotoxic effects, evaluated by several end-points, associated with THz radiation. For this purpose, in vitro exposure of human foetal fibroblasts to low frequency THz radiation (0.1-0.15THz) was performed using a Compact Free Electron Laser. We did not observe an induction of DNA damage evaluated by Comet assay, phosphorylation of H2AX histone or telomere length modulation. In addiction, no induction of apoptosis or changes in pro-survival signalling proteins were detected. Moreover, our results indicated an increase in the total number of micronuclei and centromere positive micronuclei induction evaluated by CREST analysis, indicating that THz radiation could induce aneugenic rather than clastogenic effects, probably leading to chromosome loss. Furthermore, an increase of actin polymerization observed by ultrastructural analysis after THz irradiation, supports the hypothesis that an abnormal assembly of spindle proteins could lead to the observed chromosomal malsegregation. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Towards a THz backward wave amplifier in European OPTHER project

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dispenza, M.; Brunetti, F.; Cojocaru, C.-S.; de Rossi, A.; Di Carlo, A.; Dolfi, D.; Durand, A.; Fiorello, A. M.; Gohier, A.; Guiset, P.; Kotiranta, M.; Krozer, V.; Legagneux, P.; Marchesin, R.; Megtert, S.; Bouamrane, F.; Mineo, M.; Paoloni, C.; Pham, K.; Schnell, J. P.; Secchi, A.; Tamburri, E.; Terranova, M. L.; Ulisse, G.; Zhurbenko, V.

2010-10-01

Within the EC funded international project OPTHER (OPtically Driven TeraHertz AmplifiERs) a considerable technological effort is being undertaken, in terms of technological development, THz device design and integration. The ultimate goal is to develop a miniaturised THz amplifier based on vacuum-tube principles The main target specifications of the OPTHER amplifier are the following: - Operating frequency: in the band 0.3 to 2 THz - Output power: > 10 mW ( 10 dBm ) - Gain: 10 to 20 dB. The project is in the middle of its duration. Design and simulations have shown that these targets can be met with a proper device configuration and careful optimization of the different parts of the amplifier. Two parallel schemes will be employed for amplifier realisation: THz Drive Signal Amplifier and Optically Modulated Beam THz Amplifier.

[Study on THz spectra and vibrational modes of benzoic acid and sodium Benzoate].

PubMed

Zheng, Zhuan-Ping; Fan, Wen-Hui; Yan, Hui; Liu, Jia; Xu, Li-Min

2013-03-01

Terahertz time-domain spectroscopy was employed to measure the terahertz absorption spectra of benzoic acid and sodium benzoate at room temperature. The origins of the measured features of benzoic acid were summarized based on previous study. Density functional theory was used to compute and analyze the molecular structure and vibrational modes of sodium benzoate in monomer. Based on the obtained results, the authors found that the THz spectral features can be used to distinguish benzoic acid and sodium benzoate totally; the essential reason for the THz spectral difference between benzoic acid and sodium benzoate is that the electrovalent bond of sodium benzoate affects the values of covalent bond lengths and bond angles, as well as the molecular interactions and arrangement in unit cell; the measured features of benzoic acid and sodium benzoate come from the collective vibrations except the peaks located at 107 cm-1 of benzoic acid and 54 cm-1 of sodium benzoate.

910-m propagation of THz ps pulses through the Atmosphere.

PubMed

Kim, Gyeong-Ryul; Jeon, Tae-In; Grischkowsky, D

2017-10-16

We measured the atmospheric propagation of ps THz pulses with a 0.4-THz bandwidth through a 910-m distance; the pulse delay corresponded to 255 pulses down the pulse train of the mode-locked ring laser excitation pulses. The complexity of the atmosphere requires the use of the complete theory of Essen and Froome to compare the measured time shifts due to both the dry atmosphere and water vapor with theoretical calculations. A new procedure involving the measurement of phase in the frequency domain is introduced and achieves comparable results for the calculated time shifts, compared to the previous direct measurements of time shifts. When the THz pulses were sequentially measured for a distance of 186 and 910 m at the same weather condition, the time variation due to atmospheric turbulence between the two pulses of the 910 m measurement was up to 4 times larger than that between the two pulses of the 186 m measurement. THz long path WVD studies are necessary to evaluate proposed applications in the atmosphere, such as communications and monitoring pollutants and dangerous gases.

910-m propagation of THz ps pulses through the Atmosphere

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Gyeong-Ryul; Jeon, Tae-In; Grischkowsky, D.

2017-10-01

We measured the atmospheric propagation of ps THz pulses with a 0.4-THz bandwidth through a 910-m distance; the pulse delay corresponded to 255 pulses down the pulse train of the mode-locked ring laser excitation pulses. The complexity of the atmosphere requires the use of the complete theory of Essen and Froome to compare the measured time shifts due to both the dry atmosphere and water vapor with theoretical calculations. A new procedure involving the measurement of phase in the frequency domain is introduced and achieves comparable results for the calculated time shifts, compared to the previous direct measurements of time shifts. When the THz pulses were sequentially measured for a distance of 186 and 910 m at the same weather condition, the time variation due to atmospheric turbulence between the two pulses of the 910 m measurement was up to 4 times larger than that between the two pulses of the 186 m measurement. THz long path WVD studies are necessary to evaluate proposed applications in the atmosphere, such as communications and monitoring pollutants and dangerous gases.

Is there a Biological Basis for Therapeutic Applications of Millimetre Waves and THz Waves?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mattsson, Mats-Olof; Zeni, Olga; Simkó, Myrtill

2018-03-01

Millimetre wave (MMW) and THz wave (THz) applications are already employed in certain industrial and medical environments for non-destructive quality control, and medical imaging, diagnosis, and therapy, respectively. The aim of the present study is to investigate if published experimental studies (in vivo and in vitro) provide evidence for "non-thermal" biological effects of MMW and THz. Such effects would occur in absence of tissue heating and associated damage and are the ones that can be exploited for therapeutic medical use. The investigated studies provide some evidence for both MMW and THz that can influence biological systems in a manner that is not obviously driven by tissue heating. However, the number of relevant studies is very limited which severely limits the drawing of any far-reaching conclusions. Furthermore, the studies have not addressed specific interaction mechanisms and do not provide hints for future mechanistic studies. Also, the studies do not indicate any specific importance regarding power density levels, frequencies, or exposure duration. It is also unclear if any specific biological endpoints are especially sensitive. Any therapeutic potential of MMW or THz has to be evaluated based on future high-quality studies dealing with physical, bio-physical, and biological aspects that have specific health-related perspectives in mind.

Femtosecond laser-induced herringbone patterns

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Garcell, Erik M.; Lam, Billy; Guo, Chunlei

2018-06-01

Femtosecond laser-induced herringbone patterns are formed on copper (Cu). These novel periodic structures are created following s-polarized, large incident angle, femtosecond laser pulses. Forming as slanted and axially symmetric laser-induced periodic surface structures along the side walls of ablated channels, the result is a series of v-shaped structures that resemble a herringbone pattern. Fluence mapping, incident angle studies, as well as polarization studies have been conducted and provide a clear understanding of this new structure.

THz time-domain spectroscopy imaging for mail inspection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Liquan; Wang, Zhongdong; Ma, Yanmei; Hao, Erjuan

2011-08-01

Acquiring messages from the mail but not destroying the envelope is a big challenge in the war of intelligence. If one can read the message of the mail when the envelope is closed, he will benefit from the message asymmetry and be on a good wicket in the competition. In this paper, we presented a transmitted imaging system using THz time-domain spectroscopy technology. We applied the system to image the mail inside an envelope by step-scanning imaging technology. The experimental results show that the THz spectroscopy can image the mail in an envelope. The words in the paper can be identified easily from the background. We also present the THz image of a metal blade in the envelope, in which we can see the metal blade clearly. The results show that it is feasible of THz Time-Domain Spectroscopy Imaging for mail inspection applications.

THz and mid-IR spectroscopy of interstellar ice analogs: methyl and carboxylic acid groups.

PubMed

Ioppolo, S; McGuire, B A; Allodi, M A; Blake, G A

2014-01-01

A fundamental problem in astrochemistry concerns the synthesis and survival of complex organic molecules (COMs) throughout the process of star and planet formation. While it is generally accepted that most complex molecules and prebiotic species form in the solid phase on icy grain particles, a complete understanding of the formation pathways is still largely lacking. To take full advantage of the enormous number of available THz observations (e.g., Herschel Space Observatory, SOFIA, and ALMA), laboratory analogs must be studied systematically. Here, we present the THz (0.3-7.5 THz; 10-250 cm(-1)) and mid-IR (400-4000 cm(-1)) spectra of astrophysically-relevant species that share the same functional groups, including formic acid (HCOOH) and acetic acid (CH3COOH), and acetaldehyde (CH3CHO) and acetone ((CH3)2CO), compared to more abundant interstellar molecules such as water (H2O), methanol (CH3OH), and carbon monoxide (CO). A suite of pure and mixed binary ices are discussed. The effects on the spectra due to the composition and the structure of the ice at different temperatures are shown. Our results demonstrate that THz spectra are sensitive to reversible and irreversible transformations within the ice caused by thermal processing, suggesting that THz spectra can be used to study the composition, structure, and thermal history of interstellar ices. Moreover, the THz spectrum of an individual species depends on the functional group(s) within that molecule. Thus, future THz studies of different functional groups will help in characterizing the chemistry and physics of the interstellar medium (ISM).

Modeling of THz Lasers Based on Intersubband Transitions in Semiconductor Quantum Wells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Liu, Ansheng; Woo, Alex C. (Technical Monitor)

1999-01-01

In semiconductor quantum well structures, the intersubband energy separation can be adjusted to the terahertz (THz) frequency range by changing the well width and material combinations. The electronic and optical properties of these nanostructures can also be controlled by an applied dc electric field. These unique features lead to a large frequency tunability of the quantum well devices. In the on-going project of modeling of the THz lasers, we investigate the possibility of using optical pumping to generate THz radiation based on intersubband transitions in semiconductor quantum wells. We choose the optical pumping because in the electric current injection it is difficult to realize population inversion in the THz frequency range due to the small intersubband separation (4-40 meV). We considered both small conduction band offset (GaAs/AlGaAs) and large band offset (InGaAs/AlAsSb) quantum well structures. For GaAs/AlGaAs quantum wells, mid-infrared C02 lasers are used as pumping sources. For InGaAs/AlAsSb quantum wells, the resonant intersubband transitions can be excited by the near-infrared diode lasers. For three- and four-subband quantum wells, we solve the pumpfield-induced nonequilibrium distribution function for each subband of the quantum well system from a set of rate equations that include both intrasubband and intersubband relaxation processes. Taking into account the coherent interactions between pump and THz (signal) waves, we calculate the optical gain for the THz field. The gain arising from population inversion and stimulated Raman processes is calculated in a unified manner. A graph shows the calculated THz gain spectra for three-subband GaAs/AlGaAs quantum wells. We see that the coherent pump and signal wave interactions contribute significantly to the gain. The pump intensity dependence of the THz gain is also studied. The calculated results are shown. Because of the optical Stark effect and pump-induced population redistribution, the maximum

Laser-Induced Damage with Femtosecond Pulses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kafka, Kyle R. P.

The strong electric fields of focused femtosecond laser pulses lead to non-equilibrium dynamics in materials, which, beyond a threshold intensity, causes laser-induced damage (LID). Such a strongly non-linear and non-perturbative process renders important LID observables like fluence and intensity thresholds and damage morphology (crater) extremely difficult to predict quantitatively. However, femtosecond LID carries a high degree of precision, which has been exploited in various micro/nano-machining and surface engineering applications, such as human eye surgery and super-hydrophobic surfaces. This dissertation presents an array of experimental studies which have measured the damage behavior of various materials under femtosecond irradiation. Precision experiments were performed to produce extreme spatio-temporal confinement of the femtosecond laser-solid damage interaction on monocrystalline Cu, which made possible the first successful direct-benchmarking of LID simulation with realistic damage craters. A technique was developed to produce laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) in a single pulse (typically a multi-pulse phenomenon), and was used to perform a pump-probe study which revealed asynchronous LIPSS formation on copper. Combined with 1-D calculations, this new experimental result suggests more drastic electron heating than expected. Few-cycle pulses were used to study the LID performance and morphology of commercial ultra-broadband optics, which had not been systematically studied before. With extensive surface analysis, various morphologies were observed, including LIPSS, swelling (blisters), simple craters, and even ring-shaped structures, which varied depending on the coating design, number of pulses, and air/vacuum test environment. Mechanisms leading to these morphologies are discussed, many of which are ultrafast in nature. The applied damage behavior of multi-layer dielectric mirrors was measured and compared between long pulse (150 ps

The impact of hydration changes in fresh bio-tissue on THz spectroscopic measurements.

PubMed

Png, G M; Choi, J W; Ng, B W-H; Mickan, S P; Abbott, D; Zhang, X-C

2008-07-07

We present a study of how residual hydration in fresh rat tissue samples can vastly alter their extracted terahertz (THz) optical properties and influence their health assessment. Fresh (as opposed to preserved) tissue most closely mimics in vivo conditions, but high water content creates many challenges for tissue handling and THz measurement. Our THz measurements of fresh tissue over time highlight the effect of tissue hydration on tissue texture and dimension, the latter directly influencing the accuracy of calculated optical properties. We then introduce lyophilization (freeze drying) as a viable solution for overcoming hydration and freshness problems. Lyophilization removes large amounts of water while retaining sample freshness. In addition, lyophilized tissue samples are easy to handle and their textures and dimensions do not vary over time, allowing for consistent and stable THz measurements. A comparison of lyophilized and fresh tissue shows for the first time that freeze drying may be one way of overcoming tissue hydration issues while preserving tissue cellular structure. Finally, we compare THz measurements from fresh tissue against necrotic tissue to verify freshness over time. Indeed, THz measurements from fresh and necrotic tissues show marked differences.

In vitro osteosarcoma biosensing using THz time domain spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ferguson, Bradley S.; Liu, Haibo; Hay, Shelley; Findlay, David; Zhang, Xi-Cheng; Abbott, Derek

2004-03-01

Terahertz time domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) has a wide range of applications from semiconductor diagnostics to biosensing. Recent attention has focused on bio-applications and several groups have noted the ability of THz-TDS to differentiate basal cell carcinoma tissue from healthy dermal tissue ex vivo. The contrast mechanism is unclear but has been attributed to increased interstitial water in cancerous tissue. In this work we investigate the THz response of human osteosarcoma cells and normal human bone cells grown in culture to isolate the cells' responses from other effects. A classification algorithms based on a frequency selection by genetic algorithm is used to attempt to differentiate between the cell types based on the THz spectra. Encouraging preliminary results have been obtained.

Growth, structural, thermal, dielectric and optical studies on HBST crystal: A potential THz emitter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, Yuzhe; Teng, Bing; Cao, Lifeng; Zhong, Degao; Ji, Shaohua; Teng, Fei; Liu, Jiaojiao; Yao, Yuan; Tang, Jie; Tong, Jiaming

2018-02-01

The efficient organic nonlinear optical material 4-hydroxy benzaldehyde-N-methyl 4-stilbazolium tosylate (HBST) was grown from methanol by slope nucleation method combined with slow cooling (SNM-SC) for the first time. The optimum growth conditions based on the cooling rate was further investigated. The single crystal X-ray diffraction (XRD) revealed that the chromophores of HBST crystal make an angle of about 33° with respect to the a-axis, which is close to the optimum of Terahertz (THz)-wave generation and electro-optics applications. NMR and FT-IR spectral studies have been performed to ascertain various functional groups present in the sample. Futhermore, the thermal stability and decomposition stages were analyzed through TG-DTA and DSC techniques. The dielectric constant and dielectric loss of HBST crystal have been studied. Critical optical properties like the absorption coefficient, refractive index, cut-off wavelength and band gap energy were calculated. Photoluminescence (PL) exication studies indicated green emission occured at 507 nm. All the results of HBST crystal make it a promising candidate in the fields of optoelectronic and the generation of THz.

High-Performance THz Emitters Based on Ferromagnetic/Nonmagnetic Heterostructures.

PubMed

Wu, Yang; Elyasi, Mehrdad; Qiu, Xuepeng; Chen, Mengji; Liu, Yang; Ke, Lin; Yang, Hyunsoo

2017-01-01

A low-cost, intense, broadband, noise resistive, magnetic field controllable, flexible, and low power driven THz emitter based on thin nonmagnetic/ferromagnetic metallic heterostructures is demonstrated. The THz emission origins from the inverse spin Hall Effect. The proposed devices are not only promising for a wide range of THz equipment, but also offer an alternative approach to characterize the spin-orbit interaction in nonmagnetic/ferromagnetic bilayers. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Model of photoinduced structural change induced by THz pulse irradiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ishida, Kunio; Nasu, Keiichiro

Recently intense optical pulses with THz frequency have been obtained, and it is of interest to study the effect of irradiated THz pulses on electronic systems. We theoretically study the photoinduced cooperative dynamics triggered by irradiation of THz pulses. We employed a model of two-level localized electrons coupled with an optical phonon mode taking into account the nonadiabaticity of the electron dynamics, and solved the time-dependent Schrödinger equation numerically. We consider the cases in which the THz pulses create phonons near the surface of the system, and pursue the electronic transitions induced by the propagation of the phonons. We found that they are able to induce excited-state domain growth, and that the interference between them plays an important role in the growth dynamics. Hence, the domain growth is affected by the geometry of the surface of the system, which is different from the photoinduced structural change by visible/UV pulses. We also show that the nonadiabatic/adiabatic electronic transitions should be taken into account though the domain growth mainly proceeds on the ground-state potential energy surfaces(PESs). In other words, the energy level/structure of excited-state PESs are relevant to the domain-growth dynamics.

Perspective: Echoes in 2D-Raman-THz spectroscopy.

PubMed

Hamm, Peter; Shalit, Andrey

2017-04-07

Recently, various spectroscopic techniques have been developed, which can measure the 2D response of the inter-molecular degrees of freedom of liquids in the THz regime. By employing hybrid Raman-THz pulse sequences, the inherent experimental problems of 2D-Raman spectroscopy are circumvented completely, culminating in the recent measurement of the 2D-Raman-THz responses of water and aqueous salt solutions. This review article focuses on the possibility to observe echoes in such experiments, which would directly reveal the inhomogeneity of the typically extremely blurred THz bands of liquids, and hence the heterogeneity of local structures that are transiently formed, in particular, in a hydrogen-bonding liquid such as water. The generation mechanisms of echoes in 2D-Raman-THz spectroscopy are explained, which differ from those in "conventional" 2D-IR spectroscopy in a subtle but important manner. Subsequently, the circumstances are discussed, under which echoes are expected, revealing a physical picture of the information content of an echo. That is, the echo decay reflects the lifetime of local structures in the liquid on a length scale that equals the delocalization length of the intermolecular modes. Finally, recent experimental results are reviewed from an echo perspective.

Novel Devices and Components for THz Systems

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-04-25

sources that have a higher THz-power-to-cost ratio than the current state of the art. Photoconductive antennas are mostly used to conduct ...a higher THz-power-to-cost ratio than the current state of the art. Photoconductive antennas are mostly used to conduct spectroscopy measurements...when incoming photons switch the semiconductor to a conducting state current can flow through the antenna

THz Spectroscopic Identification of Red Mineral Pigments in Ancient Chinese Artworks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Yuping; Zhai, Dongwei; Zhang, Zhenwei; Zhang, Cunlin

2017-10-01

Nondestructive analysis of historical objects is of significance for cultural heritage conservation. In this paper, terahertz time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) was used to distinguish seven red mineral pigments used in ancient Chinese artworks. Two absorption features of natural minerals HgS and four highly resolved spectral features of mineral pigment Pb3O4 were observed and identified as their fingerprints in the range 0.2 to 3.0 THz, based on which the spatial distribution of individual chemical substances including cinnabar, vermilion, and red lead were clearly revealed at various frequencies using terahertz spectroscopy imaging. Moreover, a noncontact evaluation of thickness changing and dehydration of a wet painting was monitored by inferring time delay as well as signal amplitude of THz pulses transmitted through the painting. In order to demonstrate the feasibility of THz-TDS and THz imaging for authentic artworks detection, a complete set of THz analysis of two nineteenth century wall paintings discovered in the Fuchen Temple of the Forbidden City, Beijing, was performed and the results indicate that THz measurement techniques provide a noninvasive and nondestructive solution for the care, preservation, and restoration of cultural relics.

In vivo THz imaging of human skin: Accounting for occlusion effects.

PubMed

Sun, Qiushuo; Parrott, Edward P J; He, Yuezhi; Pickwell-MacPherson, Emma

2018-02-01

In vivo terahertz (THz) imaging of human skin needs to be done in reflection geometry due to the high attenuation of THz light by water in the skin. To aid the measurement procedure, there is typically an imaging window onto which the patient places the area of interest. The window enables better pulse alignment and helps keep the patient correctly positioned during the measurement. In this paper, we demonstrate how the occlusion caused by the skin contact with the imaging window during the measurement affects the THz response. By studying both rapid point measurements and imaging over an area of a human volar forearm, we find that even 5 seconds of occlusion affects the THz response. As the occlusion time increases, the skin surface water content increases, resulting in the reduction of the amplitude of the reflected THz pulse, especially in the first 3 minutes. Furthermore, it was found that the refractive index of the volar forearm increased by 10% to 15% after 20 minutes of occlusion. In this work, we examine and propose a model for the occlusion effects due to the quartz window with a view to compensating for its influence. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Fiber-laser frequency combs for the generation of tunable single-frequency laser lines, mm- and THz-waves and sinc-shaped Nyquist pulses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schneider, Thomas

2015-03-01

High-quality frequency comb sources like femtosecond-lasers have revolutionized the metrology of fundamental physical constants. The generated comb consists of frequency lines with an equidistant separation over a bandwidth of several THz. This bandwidth can be broadened further to a super-continuum of more than an octave through propagation in nonlinear media. The frequency separation between the lines is defined by the repetition rate and the width of each comb line can be below 1 Hz, even without external stabilization. By extracting just one of these lines, an ultra-narrow linewidth, tunable laser line for applications in communications and spectroscopy can be generated. If two lines are extracted, the superposition of these lines in an appropriate photo-mixer produces high-quality millimeter- and THz-waves. The extraction of several lines can be used for the creation of almost-ideally sinc-shaped Nyquist pulses, which enable optical communications with the maximum-possible baud rate. Especially combs generated by low-cost, small-footprint fs-fiber lasers are very promising. However due to the resonator length, the comb frequencies have a typical separation of 80 - 100 MHz, far too narrow for the selection of single tones with standard optical filters. Here the extraction of single lines of an fs-fiber laser by polarization pulling assisted stimulated Brillouin scattering is presented. The application of these extracted lines as ultra-narrow, stable and tunable laser lines, for the generation of very high-quality mm and THz-waves with an ultra-narrow linewidth and phase noise and for the generation of sinc-shaped Nyquist pulses with arbitrary bandwidth and repetition rate is discussed.

Femtosecond laser in laser in situ keratomileusis

PubMed Central

Salomão, Marcella Q.; Wilson, Steven E.

2014-01-01

Flap creation is a critical step in laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). Efforts to improve the safety and predictability of the lamellar incision have fostered the development of femtosecond lasers. Several advantages of the femtosecond laser over mechanical microkeratomes have been reported in LASIK surgery. In this article, we review common considerations in management and complications of this step in femtosecond laser–LASIK and concentrate primarily on the IntraLase laser because most published studies relate to this instrument. PMID:20494777

Hybrid porous core low loss dispersion flattened fiber for THz propagation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ali, Sharafat; Ahmed, Nasim; Aljunid, Syed; Ahmad, Badlishah

2016-11-01

This manuscript represents a novel porous core fiber design for Terahertz (THz) propagation with low loss and near zero flat dispersion properties. In this proposed fiber a hexagonal arrangement is used as cladding structure and a hybrid core containing circular and triangular designs is used as the central porous region. The Effective Material Loss (EML), confinement loss and bending loss are investigated for the proposed fiber along with dispersion characteristics. Simulation results show a very low EML of 0.01944 cm-1 at 1 THz operating frequency with negligible confinement and bending loss. The proposed novel porous design shows 0.55 THz range near zero flat dispersion of ±0.05 ps/THz/cm at 0.95 ps/THz/cm. The reported design consists of only circular shaped air holes with proper core diameter and porosity to simplify the fabrication process. The newly proposed hybrid design in the porous core region can be considered as an improved edition in the research of THz porous core fibers.

THz Sources for Space

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Siegel, Peter H.; Ward, John; Maiwald, Frank; Mehdi, Imran

2007-01-01

Terahertz is the primary frequency for line and continuum radiation from cool (5-100K) gas (atoms and molecules) and dust. This viewgraph presentation reviews the reasons for the interest in Terahertz Space Applications; the Terahertz Space Missions: in the past, present and planned for the future, Terahertz source requirements and examples of some JPL instruments; and a case study for a flight deliverable: THz Local Oscillators for ESA s Herschel Space Telescope

New opportunities for quality enhancing of images captured by passive THz camera

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Trofimov, Vyacheslav A.; Trofimov, Vladislav V.

2014-10-01

As it is well-known, the passive THz camera allows seeing concealed object without contact with a person and this camera is non-dangerous for a person. Obviously, efficiency of using the passive THz camera depends on its temperature resolution. This characteristic specifies possibilities of the detection for concealed object: minimal size of the object; maximal distance of the detection; image quality. Computer processing of the THz image may lead to many times improving of the image quality without any additional engineering efforts. Therefore, developing of modern computer code for its application to THz images is urgent problem. Using appropriate new methods one may expect such temperature resolution which will allow to see banknote in pocket of a person without any real contact. Modern algorithms for computer processing of THz images allow also to see object inside the human body using a temperature trace on the human skin. This circumstance enhances essentially opportunity of passive THz camera applications for counterterrorism problems. We demonstrate opportunities, achieved at present time, for the detection both of concealed objects and of clothes components due to using of computer processing of images captured by passive THz cameras, manufactured by various companies. Another important result discussed in the paper consists in observation of both THz radiation emitted by incandescent lamp and image reflected from ceramic floorplate. We consider images produced by THz passive cameras manufactured by Microsemi Corp., and ThruVision Corp., and Capital Normal University (Beijing, China). All algorithms for computer processing of the THz images under consideration in this paper were developed by Russian part of author list. Keywords: THz wave, passive imaging camera, computer processing, security screening, concealed and forbidden objects, reflected image, hand seeing, banknote seeing, ceramic floorplate, incandescent lamp.

[Crystalline lens photodisruption using femtosecond laser: experimental study].

PubMed

Chatoux, O; Touboul, D; Buestel, C; Balcou, P; Colin, J

2010-09-01

The aim of this study was to analyze the interactions during femtosecond (fs) laser photodisruption in ex vivo porcine crystalline lenses and to study the parameters for laser interaction optimization. An experimental femtosecond laser was used. The laser characteristics were: 1030 nm wavelength; pulse duration, 400 fs; and numerical aperture, 0.13. Specific software was created to custom and monitor any type of photoablation pattern for treatment purposes. Porcine crystalline lenses were placed in an open sky holder filled with physiological liquid (BSS) covered by a glass plate. A numerical camera was associated with metrological software in order to magnify and quantify the results. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was performed on some samples to identify the microscopic plasma interactions with the lens. The optimization of parameters was investigated in terms of the optical breakdown threshold, the sizing of interactions, and the best pattern for alignments. More than 150 crystalline lenses of freshly enucleated pigs were treated. The optical breakdown threshold (OBT) was defined as the minimal energy level per pulse necessary to observe a physical interaction. In our study, the OBT varied according to the following parameters: the crystalline lens itself, varying from 4.2 to 7.6 μJ (mean, 5.1 μJ), and the depth of laser focus, varying up to 1 μJ, increasing in the depth of the tissue. Analyzing the distance between impacts, we observed that the closer the impacts were the less power was needed to create a clear well-drawn defect pattern (lines), i.e., with a 4-μJ optimized OBT, when the impacts were placed every 2 μm for the x,y directions and 60 μm for the z direction. Coalescent bubbles created by plasma formation always disappeared in less than 24h. The nonthermal effect of plasma and the innocuousness on surrounding tissues were proven by the TEM results. The crystalline lens photodisruption by the femtosecond laser seems an innovative

Self-organization approach for THz polaritonic metamaterials

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Reyes-Coronado, A.; Acosta, M.F.; Merino, R.I.

In this paper we discuss the fabrication and the electromagnetic (EM) characterization of anisotropic eutectic metamaterials, consisting of cylindrical polaritonic LiF rods embedded in either KCl or NaCl polaritonic host. The fabrication was performed using the eutectics directional solidification self-organization approach. For the EM characterization the specular reflectance at far infrared, between 3 THz and 11 THz, was measured and also calculated by numerically solving Maxwell equations, obtaining good agreement between experimental and calculated spectra. Applying an effective medium approach to describe the response of our samples, we predicted a range of frequencies in which most of our systems behavemore » as homogeneous anisotropic media with a hyperbolic dispersion relation, opening thus possibilities for using them in negative refractive index and imaging applications at THz range.« less

Electroporation-Induced Cell Modifications Detected with THz Time-Domain Spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Romeo, Stefania; Vernier, P. Thomas; Zeni, Olga

2018-04-01

Electroporation (electropermeabilization) increases the electrical conductivity of biological cell membranes and lowers transport barriers for normally impermeant materials. Molecular simulations suggest that electroporation begins with the reorganization of water and lipid head group dipoles in the phospholipid bilayer interface, driven by an externally applied electric field, and the evolution of the resulting defects into water-filled, lipid pores. The interior of the electroporated membrane thus contains water, which should provide a signature for detection of the electropermeabilized state. In this feasibility study, we use THz time-domain spectroscopy, a powerful tool for investigating biomolecular systems and their interactions with water, to detect electroporation in human cells subjected to permeabilizing pulsed electric fields (PEFs). The time-domain response of electroporated human monocytes was acquired with a commercial THz, time-domain spectrometer. For each sample, frequency spectra were calculated, and the absorption coefficient and refractive index were extracted in the frequency range between 0.2 and 1.5 THz. This analysis reveals a higher absorption of THz radiation by PEF-exposed cells, with respect to sham-exposed ones, consistent with the intrusion of water into the cell through the permeabilized membrane that is presumed to be associated with electroporation.

Frequency-agile THz-wave generation and detection system using nonlinear frequency conversion at room temperature.

PubMed

Guo, Ruixiang; Ikar'i, Tomofumi; Zhang, Jun; Minamide, Hiroaki; Ito, Hiromasa

2010-08-02

A surface-emitting THz parametric oscillator is set up to generate a narrow-linewidth, nanosecond pulsed THz-wave radiation. The THz-wave radiation is coherently detected using the frequency up-conversion in MgO: LiNbO(3) crystal. Fast frequency tuning and automatic achromatic THz-wave detection are achieved through a special optical design, including a variable-angle mirror and 1:1 telescope devices in the pump and THz-wave beams. We demonstrate a frequency-agile THz-wave parametric generation and THz-wave coherent detection system. This system can be used as a frequency-domain THz-wave spectrometer operated at room-temperature, and there are a high possible to develop into a real-time two-dimensional THz spectral imaging system.

Coherent detection of THz-induced sideband emission from excitons in the nonperturbative regime

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Uchida, K.; Otobe, T.; Mochizuki, T.; Kim, C.; Yoshita, M.; Tanaka, K.; Akiyama, H.; Pfeiffer, L. N.; West, K. W.; Hirori, H.

2018-04-01

Strong interaction of a terahertz (THz) wave with excitons induces nonperturbative optical effects such as Rabi splitting and high-order sideband generation. Here, we investigated coherent properties of THz-induced sideband emissions from GaAs/AlGaAs multiquantum wells. With increasing THz electric field, optical susceptibility of the THz-dressed exciton shows a redshift with spectral broadening and extraordinary phase shift. This implies that the field ionization of the 1 s exciton modifies the THz-dressed exciton in the nonperturbative regime.

THz Induced Nonlinear Effects in Materials at Intensities above 26 GW/cm2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Woldegeorgis, A.; Kurihara, T.; Beleites, B.; Bossert, J.; Grosse, R.; Paulus, G. G.; Ronneberger, F.; Gopal, A.

2018-04-01

Nonlinear refractive index and absorption coefficient are measured for common semiconductor material such as silicon and organic molecule such as lactose in the terahertz (THz) spectral regime extending from 0.1 to 3 THz. Terahertz pulses with field strengths in excess of 4.4 MV/cm have been employed. Transmittance and the transmitted spectrum were measured with Z-scan and single shot noncollinear electro-optic pump-probe techniques. The THz-induced change in the refractive index (Δn) shows frequency-dependence and a maximum change of - 0.128 at 1.37 THz in lactose and up to + 0.169 at 0.15 THz in silicon was measured for a peak incident THz intensity of 26 GW/cm2. Furthermore, the refractive index variation shows a quadratic dependence on the incident THz field, implying the dominance of third-order nonlinearity.

Integrated injection seeded terahertz source and amplifier for time-domain spectroscopy.

PubMed

Maysonnave, J; Jukam, N; Ibrahim, M S M; Maussang, K; Madéo, J; Cavalié, P; Dean, P; Khanna, S P; Steenson, D P; Linfield, E H; Davies, A G; Tignon, J; Dhillon, S S

2012-02-15

We used a terahertz (THz) quantum cascade laser (QCL) as an integrated injection seeded source and amplifier for THz time-domain spectroscopy. A THz input pulse is generated inside a QCL by illuminating the laser facet with a near-IR pulse from a femtosecond laser and amplified using gain switching. The THz output from the QCL is found to saturate upon increasing the amplitude of the THz input power, which indicates that the QCL is operating in an injection seeded regime.

THz Properties of Adhesives

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stübling, E.; Gomell, L.; Sommer, S.; Winkel, A.; Kahlmeyer, M.; Böhm, S.; Koch, M.

2018-04-01

We determined the THz properties of 12 different adhesives which are mainly used for industrial purposes. The adhesives applied can be classified according to their chemical structure: epoxy resins, acrylic resins, and polyurethane based materials. This work represents a basis for future studies, which will concentrate on aging effects, including the absorption of water of adhesive joints. Thus, the dielectric properties of the unaged adhesives are investigated and the results of these measurements are described herein.

THz Properties of Adhesives

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stübling, E.; Gomell, L.; Sommer, S.; Winkel, A.; Kahlmeyer, M.; Böhm, S.; Koch, M.

2018-06-01

We determined the THz properties of 12 different adhesives which are mainly used for industrial purposes. The adhesives applied can be classified according to their chemical structure: epoxy resins, acrylic resins, and polyurethane based materials. This work represents a basis for future studies, which will concentrate on aging effects, including the absorption of water of adhesive joints. Thus, the dielectric properties of the unaged adhesives are investigated and the results of these measurements are described herein.

THz behavior of indium-tin-oxide films on p-Si substrates

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Brown, E. R., E-mail: elliott.brown@wright.edu; Zhang, W-D., E-mail: wzzhang@fastmail.fm; Chen, H.

2015-08-31

This paper reports broadband THz free-space transmission measurements and modeling of indium-tin-oxide (ITO) thin films on p-doped Si substrates. Two such samples having ITO thickness of 50 and 100 nm, and DC sheet conductance 260 and 56 Ω/sq, respectively, were characterized between 0.2 and 1.2 THz using a frequency-domain spectrometer. The 50-nm-film sample displayed very flat transmittance over the 1-THz bandwidth, suggesting it is close to the critical THz sheet conductance that suppresses multi-pass interference in the substrate. An accurate transmission-line-based equivalent circuit is developed to explain the effect, and then used to show that the net reflectivity and absorptivity necessarilymore » oscillate with frequency. This has important implications for the use of thin-film metallic coupling layers on THz components and devices, such as detectors and sources. Consistent with previous reported results, the sheet conductance that best fits the THz transmittance data is roughly 50% higher than the DC values for both samples.« less

Dual-Polarization, Sideband-Separating, Balanced Receiver for 1.5 THz

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chattopadhyay, Goutman; Ward, John; Manohara, Harish; Siegel, Peter

2009-01-01

A proposed heterodyne receiver would be capable of detecting electromagnetic radiation in both of two orthogonal linear polarizations, separating sidebands, and providing balanced outputs in a frequency band centered at 1.5 THz with a fractional bandwidth greater than 40 percent. Dual polarization, sideband-separating, and balanced-output receivers are well-known and have been used extensively at frequencies up to about 100 GHz; and there was an earlier proposal for such a receiver for frequencies up to 900 GHz. However, the present proposal represents the first realistic design concept for such a receiver capable of operating above 1 THz. The proposed receiver is intended to be a prototype of mass-producible receiver units, operating at frequencies up to 6 THz, that would be incorporated into highly sensitive heterodyne array instruments to be used in astronomical spectroscopic and imaging studies.

Perspective: Watching low-frequency vibrations of water in biomolecular recognition by THz spectroscopy.

PubMed

Xu, Yao; Havenith, Martina

2015-11-07

Terahertz (THz) spectroscopy has turned out to be a powerful tool which is able to shed new light on the role of water in biomolecular processes. The low frequency spectrum of the solvated biomolecule in combination with MD simulations provides deep insights into the collective hydrogen bond dynamics on the sub-ps time scale. The absorption spectrum between 1 THz and 10 THz of solvated biomolecules is sensitive to changes in the fast fluctuations of the water network. Systematic studies on mutants of antifreeze proteins indicate a direct correlation between biological activity and a retardation of the (sub)-ps hydration dynamics at the protein binding site, i.e., a "hydration funnel." Kinetic THz absorption studies probe the temporal changes of THz absorption during a biological process, and give access to the kinetics of the coupled protein-hydration dynamics. When combined with simulations, the observed results can be explained in terms of a two-tier model involving a local binding and a long range influence on the hydration bond dynamics of the water around the binding site that highlights the significance of the changes in the hydration dynamics at recognition site for biomolecular recognition. Water is shown to assist molecular recognition processes.

Perspective: Watching low-frequency vibrations of water in biomolecular recognition by THz spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Yao; Havenith, Martina

2015-11-01

Terahertz (THz) spectroscopy has turned out to be a powerful tool which is able to shed new light on the role of water in biomolecular processes. The low frequency spectrum of the solvated biomolecule in combination with MD simulations provides deep insights into the collective hydrogen bond dynamics on the sub-ps time scale. The absorption spectrum between 1 THz and 10 THz of solvated biomolecules is sensitive to changes in the fast fluctuations of the water network. Systematic studies on mutants of antifreeze proteins indicate a direct correlation between biological activity and a retardation of the (sub)-ps hydration dynamics at the protein binding site, i.e., a "hydration funnel." Kinetic THz absorption studies probe the temporal changes of THz absorption during a biological process, and give access to the kinetics of the coupled protein-hydration dynamics. When combined with simulations, the observed results can be explained in terms of a two-tier model involving a local binding and a long range influence on the hydration bond dynamics of the water around the binding site that highlights the significance of the changes in the hydration dynamics at recognition site for biomolecular recognition. Water is shown to assist molecular recognition processes.

Quasioptical devices based on extraordinary transmission at THz

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Beruete, Miguel

2016-04-01

In this work I will present our latest advances in components developed from extraordinary transmission concepts operating at terahertz (THz) frequencies. First, a structure exhibiting two different extraordinary transmission resonances depending on the polarization of the incident wave will be shown. The peaks of transmission appear at approximately 2 and 2.5 THz for vertical and horizontal polarization, respectively, with a transmittance above 60% in both cases. Later on, a meandering line structure able to tune the extraordinary transmission resonance will be discussed. The operation frequency in this case is between 9 and 17 THz. A self-complementary polarizer will be then presented, with a high polarization purity. The fundamentals of this device based on the Babinet's principle will be discussed in depth. Finally, all these structures will be combined together to produce a dual-band Quarter Wave Plate able to convert a linear polarization at the input in a circular polarization at the output at two different bands, 1 and 2.2. THz. Some final words regarding the potential of extraordinary transmission for sensing applications will close the contribution.

Highly nonlinear organic crystal OHQ-T for efficient ultra-broadband terahertz wave generation beyond 10 THz.

PubMed

Kang, Bong Joo; Baek, In Hyung; Lee, Seung-Heon; Kim, Won Tae; Lee, Seung-Jun; Jeong, Young Uk; Kwon, O-Pil; Rotermund, Fabian

2016-05-16

We report on efficient generation of ultra-broadband terahertz (THz) waves via optical rectification in a novel nonlinear organic crystal with acentric core structure, i.e. 2-(4-hydroxystyryl)-1-methylquinolinium 4-methylbenzenesulfonate (OHQ-T), which possesses an ideal molecular structure leading to a maximized nonlinear optical response for near-infrared-pumped THz wave generation. By systematic studies on wavelength-dependent phase-matching conditions in OHQ-T crystals of different thicknesses we are able to generate coherent THz waves with a high peak-to-peak electric field amplitude of up to 650 kV/cm and an upper cut-off frequency beyond 10 THz. High optical-to-THz conversion efficiency of 0.31% is achieved by efficient index matching with a selective pumping at 1300 nm.

Temperature-dependent THz vibrational spectra of clenbuterol hydrochloride

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, YuPing; Lei, XiangYun; Yue, Ai; Zhang, Zhenwei

2013-04-01

Using the high-resolution Terahertz Time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) and the standard sample pellet technique, the far-infrared vibrational spectra of clenbuterol hydrochloride (CH), a β 2-adrenergic agonist for decreasing fat deposition and enhancing protein accretion, were measured in temperature range of 77-295 K. Between 0.2 and 3.6 THz (6.6-120.0 cm-1), seven highly resolved spectral features, strong line-narrowing and a frequency blue-shift were observed with cooling. However, ractopamine hydrochloride, with some structural and pharmacological similarities to clenbuterol hydrochloride, showed no spectral features, indicating high sensitivity and strong specificity of THz-TDS. These results could be used for the rapid and nondestructive CH residual detection in food safety control.

Method for the production of wideband THz radiation

DOEpatents

Krafft, Geoffrey A [Newport News, VA

2008-01-01

A method for the production of extremely wide bandwidth THz radiation comprising: delivering an electron beam from a source to an undulator that does not deflect the angle or transversely move the electron beam; and optimizing the undulator to yield peak emission in the middle of the THz band (1 THz). These objectives are accomplished by magnetically bending the orbit of the incoming electron beam in the undulator according to the function x(z)=x.sub.o exp(-z.sup.2/2.sigma..sup.2) and controlling the transverse magnetic field to be B(z)=B.sub.0(1-z.sup.2/.sigma..sup.2)exp(-z.sup.2/2.sigma..sup.2).

Growth, structural, thermal, dielectric and optical studies on HBST crystal: A potential THz emitter.

PubMed

Ma, Yuzhe; Teng, Bing; Cao, Lifeng; Zhong, Degao; Ji, Shaohua; Teng, Fei; Liu, Jiaojiao; Yao, Yuan; Tang, Jie; Tong, Jiaming

2018-02-05

The efficient organic nonlinear optical material 4-hydroxy benzaldehyde-N-methyl 4-stilbazolium tosylate (HBST) was grown from methanol by slope nucleation method combined with slow cooling (SNM-SC) for the first time. The optimum growth conditions based on the cooling rate was further investigated. The single crystal X-ray diffraction (XRD) revealed that the chromophores of HBST crystal make an angle of about 33° with respect to the a-axis, which is close to the optimum of Terahertz (THz)-wave generation and electro-optics applications. NMR and FT-IR spectral studies have been performed to ascertain various functional groups present in the sample. Futhermore, the thermal stability and decomposition stages were analyzed through TG-DTA and DSC techniques. The dielectric constant and dielectric loss of HBST crystal have been studied. Critical optical properties like the absorption coefficient, refractive index, cut-off wavelength and band gap energy were calculated. Photoluminescence (PL) exication studies indicated green emission occured at 507nm. All the results of HBST crystal make it a promising candidate in the fields of optoelectronic and the generation of THz. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

High sensitive THz superconducting hot electron bolometer mixers and transition edge sensors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, W.; Miao, W.; Zhou, K. M.; Guo, X. H.; Zhong, J. Q.; Shi, S. C.

2016-11-01

Terahertz band, which is roughly defined as 0.1 THz to 10 THz, is an interesting frequency region of the electromagnetic spectrum to be fully explored in astronomy. THz observations play key roles in astrophysics and cosmology. High sensitive heterodyne and direct detectors are the main tools for the detection of molecular spectral lines and fine atomic structure spectral lines, which are very important tracers for probing the physical and chemical properties and dynamic processes of objects such as star and planetary systems. China is planning to build an THz telescope at Dome A, Antarctica, a unique site for ground-based THz observations. We are developing THz superconducting hot electron bolometer (HEB) mixers and transition edge sensors (TES), which are quantum limited and back-ground limited detectors, respectively. Here we first introduce the working principles of superconducting HEB and TES, and then mainly present the results achieved at Purple mountain Observatory.

Low-temperature THz time domain waveguide spectrometer with butt-coupled emitter and detector crystal.

PubMed

Qiao, W; Stephan, D; Hasselbeck, M; Liang, Q; Dekorsy, T

2012-08-27

A compact high-resolution THz time-domain waveguide spectrometer that is operated inside a cryostat is demonstrated. A THz photo-Dember emitter and a ZnTe electro-optic detection crystal are directly attached to a parallel copper-plate waveguide. This allows the THz beam to be excited and detected entirely inside the cryostat, obviating the need for THz-transparent windows or external THz mirrors. Since no external bias for the emitter is required, no electric feed-through into the cryostat is necessary. Using asynchronous optical sampling, high resolution THz spectra are obtained in the frequency range from 0.2 to 2.0 THz. The THz emission from the photo-Dember emitter and the absorption spectrum of 1,2-dicyanobenzene film are measured as a function of temperature. An absorption peak around 750 GHz of 1,2-dicyanobenzene displays a blue shift with increasing temperature.

The THz fingerprint spectra of the active ingredients of a TCM medicine: Herba Ephedrae

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, Shihua; Liu, Guifeng; Zhang, Peng; Song, Xiyu; Ji, Te; Wang, Wenfeng

2008-12-01

In this paper, THz-TDS has been used to measure the spectral properties of two active ingredients of Herba Ephedrae: ephedrine and pseudoephedrine, which exist in hydrochloride salts. The THz spectra of the sole-ingredient, twoingredient and three-ingredient compounds are studied. We obtained the finger-print spectra of the net active ingredients of the medicine, and also measured the mixtures of by two or three active ingredients at the different ratios. At the same time, theoretical analysis and quantitative analysis is applied to foretell the different THz spectra, identify the ingredients and infer the contents of principal components in samples. The THz spectroscopy is a potential and promising technique in evaluating and inspecting the quality of the drugs in the TCM field.

Observation of Quantum Beating in rb at 2.1 THz and 18.2 THz: Long-Range Rb^{*}-Rb Interactions.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goldshlag, William; Ricconi, Brian J.; Eden, J. Gary

2017-06-01

The interaction of Rb 7s ^{2}S_{1/2}, 5d ^{2}D_{3/2,5/2} and 5p ^{2}P_{3/2} atoms with the background species at long range (100-1000Å) has been observed by pump-probe ultrafast laser spectroscopy. Parametric four-wave mixing in Rb vapor with pairs of 50-70 fs pulses produces coherent Rb 6P-5S emission at 420 nm that is modulated by Rb quantum beating. The two dominant beating frequencies are 18.2 THz and 2.07 THz, corresponding to quantum beating between 7S and 5D states and to the (5D-5P_{3/2})-(5P_{3/2}-5S) defect, respectively. Analysis of Rabi oscillations in these pump-probe experiments allows for the mean interaction energy at long range to be determined. The figure shows Fourier transform spectra of representative Rabi oscillation waveforms. The waveform and spectrum at left illustrate quantum beating in Rb at 2.1 THz. The spectrum at right is dominated by the 18.2 THz frequency component generated by 7S-5D beating in Rb. Insets show respective temporal behaviors of the 6P-5S line near the coherent transient (zero interpulse delay).

Detection and identification of substances using noisy THz signal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Trofimov, Vyacheslav A.; Zakharova, Irina G.; Zagursky, Dmitry Yu.; Varentsova, Svetlana A.

2017-05-01

We discuss an effective method for the detection and identification of substances using a high noisy THz signal. In order to model such a noisy signal, we add to the THz signal transmitted through a pure substance, a noisy THz signal obtained in real conditions at a long distance (more than 3.5 m) from the receiver in air. The insufficiency of the standard THz-TDS method is demonstrated. The method discussed in the paper is based on time-dependent integral correlation criteria calculated using spectral dynamics of medium response. A new type of the integral correlation criterion, which is less dependent on spectral characteristics of the noisy signal under investigation, is used for the substance identification. To demonstrate the possibilities of the integral correlation criteria in real experiment, they are applied for the identification of explosive HMX in the reflection mode. To explain the physical mechanism for the false absorption frequencies appearance in the signal we make a computer simulation using 1D Maxwell's equations and density matrix formalism. We propose also new method for the substance identification by using the THz pulse frequency up-conversion and discuss an application of the cascade mechanism of molecules high energy levels excitation for the substance identification.

Antiferromagnetic THz-frequency Josephson-like Oscillator Driven by Spin Current.

PubMed

Khymyn, Roman; Lisenkov, Ivan; Tiberkevich, Vasyl; Ivanov, Boris A; Slavin, Andrei

2017-03-06

The development of compact and tunable room temperature sources of coherent THz-frequency signals would open a way for numerous new applications. The existing approaches to THz-frequency generation based on superconductor Josephson junctions (JJ), free electron lasers, and quantum cascades require cryogenic temperatures or/and complex setups, preventing the miniaturization and wide use of these devices. We demonstrate theoretically that a bi-layer of a heavy metal (Pt) and a bi-axial antiferromagnetic (AFM) dielectric (NiO) can be a source of a coherent THz signal. A spin-current flowing from a DC-current-driven Pt layer and polarized along the hard AFM anisotropy axis excites a non-uniform in time precession of magnetizations sublattices in the AFM, due to the presence of a weak easy-plane AFM anisotropy. The frequency of the AFM oscillations varies in the range of 0.1-2.0 THz with the driving current in the Pt layer from 10 8  A/cm 2 to 10 9  A/cm 2 . The THz-frequency signal from the AFM with the amplitude exceeding 1 V/cm is picked up by the inverse spin-Hall effect in Pt. The operation of a room-temperature AFM THz-frequency oscillator is similar to that of a cryogenic JJ oscillator, with the energy of the easy-plane magnetic anisotropy playing the role of the Josephson energy.

Antiferromagnetic THz-frequency Josephson-like Oscillator Driven by Spin Current

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khymyn, Roman; Lisenkov, Ivan; Tiberkevich, Vasyl; Ivanov, Boris A.; Slavin, Andrei

2017-03-01

The development of compact and tunable room temperature sources of coherent THz-frequency signals would open a way for numerous new applications. The existing approaches to THz-frequency generation based on superconductor Josephson junctions (JJ), free electron lasers, and quantum cascades require cryogenic temperatures or/and complex setups, preventing the miniaturization and wide use of these devices. We demonstrate theoretically that a bi-layer of a heavy metal (Pt) and a bi-axial antiferromagnetic (AFM) dielectric (NiO) can be a source of a coherent THz signal. A spin-current flowing from a DC-current-driven Pt layer and polarized along the hard AFM anisotropy axis excites a non-uniform in time precession of magnetizations sublattices in the AFM, due to the presence of a weak easy-plane AFM anisotropy. The frequency of the AFM oscillations varies in the range of 0.1-2.0 THz with the driving current in the Pt layer from 108 A/cm2 to 109 A/cm2. The THz-frequency signal from the AFM with the amplitude exceeding 1 V/cm is picked up by the inverse spin-Hall effect in Pt. The operation of a room-temperature AFM THz-frequency oscillator is similar to that of a cryogenic JJ oscillator, with the energy of the easy-plane magnetic anisotropy playing the role of the Josephson energy.

THz optical design considerations and optimization for medical imaging applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sung, Shijun; Garritano, James; Bajwa, Neha; Nowroozi, Bryan; Llombart, Nuria; Grundfest, Warren; Taylor, Zachary D.

2014-09-01

THz imaging system design will play an important role making possible imaging of targets with arbitrary properties and geometries. This study discusses design consideration and imaging performance optimization techniques in THz quasioptical imaging system optics. Analysis of field and polarization distortion by off-axis parabolic (OAP) mirrors in THz imaging optics shows how distortions are carried in a series of mirrors while guiding the THz beam. While distortions of the beam profile by individual mirrors are not significant, these effects are compounded by a series of mirrors in antisymmetric orientation. It is shown that symmetric orientation of the OAP mirror effectively cancels this distortion to recover the original beam profile. Additionally, symmetric orientation can correct for some geometrical off-focusing due to misalignment. We also demonstrate an alternative method to test for overall system optics alignment by investigating the imaging performance of the tilted target plane. Asymmetric signal profile as a function of the target plane's tilt angle indicates when one or more imaging components are misaligned, giving a preferred tilt direction. Such analysis can offer additional insight into often elusive source device misalignment at an integrated system. Imaging plane tilting characteristics are representative of a 3-D modulation transfer function of the imaging system. A symmetric tilted plane is preferred to optimize imaging performance.

Determination of the water vapor continuum absorption by THz-TDS and Molecular Response Theory.

PubMed

Yang, Yihong; Mandehgar, Mahboubeh; Grischkowsky, D

2014-02-24

Determination of the water vapor continuum absorption from 0.35 to 1 THz is reported. The THz pulses propagate though a 137 m long humidity-controlled chamber and are measured by THz time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS). The average relative humidity along the entire THz path is precisely obtained by measuring the difference between transit times of the sample and reference THz pulses to an accuracy of 0.1 ps. Using the measured total absorption and the calculated resonance line absorption with the Molecular Response Theory lineshape, based on physical principles and measurements, an accurate continuum absorption is obtained within four THz absorption windows, that agrees well with the empirical theory. The absorption is significantly smaller than that obtained using the van Vleck-Weisskopf lineshape with a 750 GHz cut-off.

Proposal for a broadband THz refractive-index sensor based on quantum-cascade laser arrays.

PubMed

Zhao, Le; Khanal, Sudeep; Wu, Chongzhao; Kumar, Sushil

2015-02-23

Many molecules have strong and characteristic rotational and vibrational transitions at terahertz (THz) frequencies, which makes this frequency range unique for applications in spectroscopic sensing of chemical and biological species. Here, we propose a broadband THz sensor based on arrays of single-mode QCLs, which could be utilized for sensing of the refractive-index of solids or liquids in reflection geometry. The proposed scheme does not require expensive THz detectors and consists of no movable parts. A recently developed antenna-feedback geometry is utilized to enhance optical coupling between two single-mode QCLs, which facilitates optical downconversion of the THz frequency signal to microwave regime. Arrays of THz QCLs emitting at discrete frequencies could be utilized to provide more than 2 THz of spectral coverage to realize a broadband, low-cost, and portable THz sensor.

Fiber-Drawn Metamaterial for THz Waveguiding and Imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Atakaramians, Shaghik; Stefani, Alessio; Li, Haisu; Habib, Md. Samiul; Hayashi, Juliano Grigoleto; Tuniz, Alessandro; Tang, Xiaoli; Anthony, Jessienta; Lwin, Richard; Argyros, Alexander; Fleming, Simon C.; Kuhlmey, Boris T.

2017-09-01

In this paper, we review the work of our group in fabricating metamaterials for terahertz (THz) applications by fiber drawing. We discuss the fabrication technique and the structures that can be obtained before focusing on two particular applications of terahertz metamaterials, i.e., waveguiding and sub-diffraction imaging. We show the experimental demonstration of THz radiation guidance through hollow core waveguides with metamaterial cladding, where substantial improvements were realized compared to conventional hollow core waveguides, such as reduction of size, greater flexibility, increased single-mode operating regime, and guiding due to magnetic and electric resonances. We also report recent and new experimental work on near- and far-field THz imaging using wire array metamaterials that are capable of resolving features as small as λ/28.

Characteristics of nanocomposites and semiconductor heterostructure wafers using THz spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Altan, Hakan

All optical, THz-Time Domain Spectroscopic (THz-TDS) methods were employed towards determining the electrical characteristics of Single Walled Carbon Nanotubes, Ion Implanted Si nanoclusters and Si1-xGe x, HFO2, SiO2 on p-type Si wafers. For the nanoscale composite materials, Visible Pump/THz Probe spectroscopy measurements were performed after observing that the samples were not sensitive to the THz radiation alone. The results suggest that the photoexcited nanotubes exhibit localized transport due to Lorentz-type photo-induced localized states from 0.2 to 0.7THz. The THz transmission is modeled through the photoexcited layer with an effective dielectric constant described by a Drude + Lorentz model and given by Maxwell-Garnett theory. Comparisons are made with other prevalent theories that describe electronic transport. Similar experiments were repeated for ion-implanted, 3-4nm Si nanoclusters in fused silica for which a similar behavior was observed. In addition, a change in reflection from Si1-xGex on Si, 200mm diameter semiconductor heterostructure wafers with 10% or 15% Ge content, was measured using THz-TDS methods. Drude model is utilized for the transmission/reflection measurements and from the reflection data the mobility of each wafer is estimated. Furthermore, the effect of high-kappa dielectric material (HfO2) on the electrical properties of p-type silicon wafers was characterized by utilizing non-contact, differential (pump-pump off) spectroscopic methods to differ between HfO2 and SiO 2 on Si wafers. The measurements are analyzed in two distinct transmission models, where one is an exact representation of the layered structure for each wafer and the other assumed that the response observed from the differential THz transmission was solely due to effects from interfacial traps between the dielectric layer and the substrate. The latter gave a more accurate picture of the carrier dynamics. From these measurements the effect of interfacial defects on

Micromachined TWTs for THz Radiation Sources

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Booske, John H.; vanderWeide, Daniel W.; Kory, Carol L.; Limbach, S.; Downey, Alan (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

provide superior high frequency wall conductivity as a result of superior surface smoothness compared with conventional mechanical or electric discharge machining approaches. Micro-VED technologies are already being applied to the development of millimeter-wave klystrons at Stanford Linear Accelerator Center and submillimeter-wave klystrons at the University of Leeds. We are investigating the use of micro-machining technologies to develop THz regime TWTs, with emphasis on folded-waveguide TWTs. The folded-waveguide TWT (FW-TWT) has several features that make it attractive for THz-regime micro-VED applications. It is a relatively simple circuit to design and fabricate, it is amenable to precision pattern replication by micro-machining, and it is has been demonstrated capable of forward-wave amplification with appreciable bandwidth. We are conducting experimental and computational studies of micro-VED FW-TWTs to examine their feasibility for applications at frequencies from 200 - 1000 GHz.

[Discussion of scattering in THz time domain spectrum tests].

PubMed

Yan, Fang; Zhang, Zhao-hui; Zhao, Xiao-yan; Su, Hai-xia; Li, Zhi; Zhang, Han

2014-06-01

Using THz-TDS to extract the absorption spectrum of a sample is an important branch of various THz applications. Basically, we believe that the THz radiation scatters from sample particles, leading to an obvious baseline increasing with frequencies in its absorption spectrum. The baseline will affect the measurement accuracy due to ambiguous height and pattern of the spectrum. The authors should try to remove the baseline, and eliminate the effects of scattering. In the present paper, we investigated the causes of baselines, reviewed some of scatter mitigating methods and summarized some of research aspects in the future. In order to validate the correctness of these methods, we designed a series of experiments to compare the computational accuracy of molar concentration. The result indicated that the computational accuracy of molar concentration can be improved, which can be the basis of quantitative analysis in further researches. Finally, with comprehensive experimental results, we presented further research directions on THz absorption spectrum that is needed for the removal of scattering effects.

Morphological study of human sweat ducts for the investigation of THz-wave interaction (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kawase, Kodo; Tripathi, Saroj R.

2016-03-01

Recently, some studies reported that the sweat ducts act as a low-Q-factor helical antenna due to their helical structure, and resonate in the terahertz frequency range according to their structural parameters. According to the antenna theory, when the duct works as a helical antenna, the dimension of the helix plays a key role to determine the frequency of resonance. Therefore, the accurate determination of structural parameters of sweat duct is crucially important to obtain the reliable frequency of resonance and modes of operations. Therefore, here we performed the optical coherence tomography (OCT) of human subjects on their palm and foot to investigate the density, distribution and morphological features of sweat ducts. Moreover, we measured the dielectric properties of stratum corneum using terahertz time domain spectroscopy and based upon this information, we determined the frequency of resonance. We recruited 32 subjects for the measurement and the average duct diameter was 95±11μm. Based upon this information on diameter of duct and THz dielectric properties of stratum corneum (ɛ=5.1±1.3), we have calculated the frequency of resonance of sweat duct. Finally, we determined that the center frequency of resonance was 442±76 GHz. We believe that these findings will facilitate further investigation of the THz-skin interaction and provide guidelines for safety levels with respect to human exposure. We will also report on the EEG measurement while being shined by micro watt order THz waves.

THz spectra and corresponding vibrational modes of DNA base pair cocrystals and polynucleotides

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Fang; Zhao, Dongbo; Dong, Hao; Jiang, Ling; Huang, Lin; Liu, Yunfei; Li, Shuhua

2018-07-01

The generalized energy-based fragmentation (GEBF) approach has been applied to study the THz spectra and vibrational modes of base pair cocrystals under periodic boundary conditions (denoted as PBC-GEBF). Results of vibrational mode reveal that hydrogen bonds play a pivotal role in the pairing process of base crystals, where most Nsbnd H and Csbnd H bonds stretch to some extent. We also found that hydrogen bonds of a self-made A:T cocrystal completely break in a transition from liquid to the solid state, while self-made C:G cocrystal is different and easier to form a cocrystal, as confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and terahertz (THz) spectra. Furthermore, we have studied DNA polynucleotides (in both A and B forms) found that the vibrational modes changed a lot during the process of their forming double strand. Despite the key role played by hydrogen bonds, the key contribution originates from collective motions of the main skeleton. A comparative study of the spectra of some stranded fragments suggests that different sequences or forms have similar spectra in THz band. They distinguish from each other mainly in the low-frequency regions, especially below 1 THz. This study would make great contributions to the molecular dynamics model based DNA long-chain structure simulation in the future study.

Long-range parametric amplification of THz wave with absorption loss exceeding parametric gain.

PubMed

Wang, Tsong-Dong; Huang, Yen-Chieh; Chuang, Ming-Yun; Lin, Yen-Hou; Lee, Ching-Han; Lin, Yen-Yin; Lin, Fan-Yi; Kitaeva, Galiya Kh

2013-01-28

Optical parametric mixing is a popular scheme to generate an idler wave at THz frequencies, although the THz wave is often absorbing in the nonlinear optical material. It is widely suggested that the useful material length for co-directional parametric mixing with strong THz-wave absorption is comparable to the THz-wave absorption length in the material. Here we show that, even in the limit of the absorption loss exceeding parametric gain, the THz idler wave can grows monotonically from optical parametric amplification over a much longer distance in a nonlinear optical material until pump depletion. The coherent production of the non-absorbing signal wave can assist the growth of the highly absorbing idler wave. We also show that, for the case of an equal input pump and signal in difference frequency generation, the quick saturation of the THz idler wave predicted from a much simplified and yet popular plane-wave model fails when fast diffraction of the THz wave from the co-propagating optical mixing waves is considered.

Design of Multi-Order Diffractive THz Lenses

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-09-23

surface. This makes the fabrication process easier and more accurate, thereby improving optical quality. A CNC lathe can be used to carve the lens out...for low-end THz operation (200-800 GHz). The lens was fabricated in Teflon with a small CNC lathe and can be seen in Fig. 3. With only 4 zones...excellent THz transparency and is readily available. Once the CNC turning was complete, the lens was separated from its substrate with a band-saw and

Optical frequency switching scheme for a high-speed broadband THz measurement system based on the photomixing technique.

PubMed

Song, Hajun; Hwang, Sejin; Song, Jong-In

2017-05-15

This study presents an optical frequency switching scheme for a high-speed broadband terahertz (THz) measurement system based on the photomixing technique. The proposed system can achieve high-speed broadband THz measurements using narrow optical frequency scanning of a tunable laser source combined with a wavelength-switchable laser source. In addition, this scheme can provide a larger output power of an individual THz signal compared with that of a multi-mode THz signal generated by multiple CW laser sources. A swept-source THz tomography system implemented with a two-channel wavelength-switchable laser source achieves a reduced time for acquisition of a point spread function and a higher depth resolution in the same amount of measurement time compared with a system with a single optical source.

Influence of intense THz radiation on spin state of photoswitchable compound Cu(hfac)2L(Pr).

PubMed

Veber, Sergey L; Fedin, Matvey V; Maryunina, Ksenia Yu; Boldyrev, Kirill N; Sheglov, Mikhail A; Kubarev, Vitaly V; Shevchenko, Oleg A; Vinokurov, Nikolay A; Kulipanov, Gennady N; Sagdeev, Renad Z; Ovcharenko, Victor I; Bagryanskaya, Elena G

2013-02-21

The family of magnetoactive compounds Cu(hfac)(2)L(R) exhibits thermo- and photoswitching phenomena promising for various applications. Photoswitching of the Cu(hfac)(2)L(Pr) compound can be observed at temperatures below 20 K and is accompanied by transition to metastable structural state. Reverse conversion to stable structure could not be induced by light of near-IR-vis-UV regions up to date. The far-IR spectra of metastable and stable structural states are different and show characteristic absorption lines in the range of 170-240 cm(-1). These frequencies are accessible by NovoFEL - high-power THz free-electron laser user facility in Novosibirsk. We investigate selective influence of THz radiation on relaxation processes from metastable to stable structural state, which can be monitored by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR). For this purpose, the experimental station based on X-band EPR spectrometer has been constructed by the THz beamline of NovoFEL and equipped with multimodal THz waveguide allowing to fed radiation directly into the EPR resonator. It has been found that irradiation of studied compound with high-power THz light causes significant but nondestructive increase of its temperature. Apart from this effect, no resonant influence of THz irradiation on relaxation processes has been observed. The experimental results have been rationalized taking into account vibrational relaxation times of the studied compound. Further experiments based on pulse heating by THz radiation have been proposed.

Efficient THZ Source Based on Cascaded Optical Down-Conversion in Orientation-Patterned GaAs Structures

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-11-20

techniques for generating THz radiation [5], none of them provides a THz source which is simultaneously ( i ) compact, (ii) highly efficient, (iii...are very attractive for QPM THz-wave generation because of several appealing properties, namely ( i ) small THz absorption coefficient (smaller by an...with periodically- inverted crystalline orientation were used for QPM THz generation: ( i ) diffusion-bonded GaAs (DB-GaAs) [49], produced by

Phase matching in RT KTP crystal for down-conversion into the THz range

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, J.-G.; Huang, Z.-M.; Nikolaev, N. A.; Mamrashev, A. A.; Antsygin, V. D.; Potaturkin, O. I.; Meshalkin, A. B.; Kaplun, A. B.; Lanskii, G. V.; Andreev, Yu M.; Ezhov, D. M.; Svetlichnyi, V. A.

2018-07-01

Dispersion of refractive index and absorption coefficients in flux-grown high-resistivity KTiOPO4 crystals between 0.2–2.5 THz are verified at room temperature by a THz-TDS. Measured dispersion components n x , n y and n z are approximated for the first time in the form of Sellmeier equations. Phase matching for down-conversion into the THz range under a visible and near IR pump is found possible only in the principle plane by and types of three-wave interactions. Low frequency THz generation is favorable due to the low absorption coefficient down to 0.2 cm‑1, below 0.5 THz.

THz spectroscopy: An emerging technology for pharmaceutical development and pharmaceutical Process Analytical Technology (PAT) applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Huiquan; Khan, Mansoor

2012-08-01

As an emerging technology, THz spectroscopy has gained increasing attention in the pharmaceutical area during the last decade. This attention is due to the fact that (1) it provides a promising alternative approach for in-depth understanding of both intermolecular interaction among pharmaceutical molecules and pharmaceutical product quality attributes; (2) it provides a promising alternative approach for enhanced process understanding of certain pharmaceutical manufacturing processes; and (3) the FDA pharmaceutical quality initiatives, most noticeably, the Process Analytical Technology (PAT) initiative. In this work, the current status and progress made so far on using THz spectroscopy for pharmaceutical development and pharmaceutical PAT applications are reviewed. In the spirit of demonstrating the utility of first principles modeling approach for addressing model validation challenge and reducing unnecessary model validation "burden" for facilitating THz pharmaceutical PAT applications, two scientific case studies based on published THz spectroscopy measurement results are created and discussed. Furthermore, other technical challenges and opportunities associated with adapting THz spectroscopy as a pharmaceutical PAT tool are highlighted.

Unidirectional THz radiation propagation in BiFeO3

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Room, Toomas

The mutual coupling between magnetism and electricity present in many multiferroic materials permit the magnetic control of the electric polarization and the electric control of the magnetization. These static magnetoelectric (ME) effects are of enormous interest: The ability to write a magnetic state current-free by an electric voltage would provide a huge technological advantage. However, ME coupling changes the low energy electrodynamics of these materials in unprecedented way - optical ME effects give rise to unidirectional light propagation as recently observed in low-temperature multiferroics. The transparent direction can be switched with dc magnetic or electric field, thus opening up new possibilities to manipulate the propagation of electromagnetic waves in multiferroic materials. We studied the unidirectional transmission of THz radiation in BiFeO3 crystals, the unique multiferroic compound offering a real potential for room temperature applications. The electrodynamics of BiFeO3 at 1THz and below is dominated by the spin wave modes of cycloidal spin order. We found that the optical magnetoelectric effect generated by spin waves in BiFeO3 is robust enough to cause considerable nonreciprocal directional dichroism in the GHz-THz range even at room temperature. The supporting theory attributes the observed unidirectional transmission to the spin-current-driven dynamic ME effect. Our work demonstrates that the nonreciprocal directional dichroism spectra of low energy excitations and their theoretical analysis provide microscopic model of ME couplings in multiferroic materials. Recent THz spectroscopy studies of multiferroic materials are an important step toward the realization of optical diodes, devices which transmit light in one but not in the opposite direction.

Hydration shell parameters of aqueous alcohols: THz excess absorption and packing density.

PubMed

Matvejev, V; Zizi, M; Stiens, J

2012-12-06

Solvation in water requires minimizing the perturbations in its hydrogen bonded network. Hence solutes distort water molecular motions in a surrounding domain, forming a molecule-specific hydration shell. The properties of those hydration shells impact the structure and function of the solubilized molecules, both at the single molecule and at higher order levels. The size of the hydration shell and the picoseconds time-scale water dynamics retardation are revealed by terahertz (THz) absorption coefficient measurements. Room-temperature absorption coefficient at f = 0.28 [THz] is measured as a function of alcohol concentration in aqueous methanol, ethanol, 1,2-propanol, and 1-butanol solutions. Highly diluted alcohol measurements and enhanced overall measurement accuracy are achieved with a THz absorption measurement technique of nL-volume liquids in a capillary tube. In the absorption analysis, bulk and interfacial molecular domains of water and alcohol are considered. THz ideal and excess absorption coefficients are defined in accordance with thermodynamics mixing formulations. The parameter extraction method is developed based on a THz excess absorption model and hydrated solute molecule packing density representation. First, the hydration shell size is deduced from the hydrated solute packing densities at two specific THz excess absorption nonlinearity points: at infinite alcohol dilution (IAD) and at the THz excess absorption extremum (EAE). Consequently, interfacial water and alcohol molecular domain absorptions are deduced from the THz excess absorption model. The hydration shell sizes obtained at the THz excess absorption extremum are in excellent agreement with other reports. The hydration shells of methanol, ethanol, 1- and 2-propanol consist of 13.97, 22.94, 22.99, and 31.10 water molecules, respectively. The hydration shell water absorption is on average 0.774 ± 0.028 times the bulk water absorption. The hydration shell parameters might shed light on

Broadband THz Generation and Detection at 10 nm Scale

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, Yanjun; Huang, Mengchen; Levy, Jeremy; Ryu, Sangwoo; Wung Bark, Chung; Eom, Chang-Beom

2013-03-01

The terahertz region of the electromagnetic spectrum (0.1 THz-10 THz) probes a wealth of information relevant for material, biological, medical and pharmaceutical sciences, as well as applications in chemical sensing and homeland security. To date, there have been no methods capable of controlling THz radiation at scales relevant for single molecules. Here we report the generation and detection of broadband terahertz radiation from 10-nm-scale nanojunctions which are ''sketched'' at the interface of LaAlO3/SrTiO3 (LAO/STO) heterostructure with a conductive atomic force microscope (c-AFM) tip. The nonresonant χ (3) process is characterized for a single nanojunction structure, which is nonlienar electronic response to both the static field cross the junction and the optical field illuminated the junction. The same mechanism can result in the generation and detection of broadband THz radiation. This unprecedented control of terahertz radiation, on a scale of four orders of magnitude smaller than the diffraction limit, creates a pathway toward ultra-high-resolution THz imaging, single-molecule fingerprinting, spectroscopic characterization of catalysts, and other applications. The authors acknowledge support from AFOSR - FA9550-12-1-0268 (J. L.), AFOSR FA9550-12-1-0342 (C. -B. E.) and the National Science Foundation through grants DMR-1104191 (J. L.) and DMR-1234096 (C. -B. E.).

Femtosecond laser refractive surgery: small-incision lenticule extraction vs. femtosecond laser-assisted LASIK.

PubMed

Lee, Jimmy K; Chuck, Roy S; Park, Choul Yong

2015-07-01

Small-incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) is a novel technique devised to correct refractive errors. SMILE circumvents excimer laser photoablation of cornea, as the stromal lenticule cut by femtosecond laser is removed manually. Smaller incisions and preservation of anterior corneal biomechanical strength have been suggested as some of the advantages of SMILE over femtosecond laser-assisted LASIK (FS-LASIK). In this review, we compared previous published results of SMILE and FS-LASIK. The advantage, efficacy and safety of SMILE are compared with FS-LASIK. SMILE achieved similar efficacy, predictability and safety as FS-LASIK. Greater preservations of corneal biomechanical strength and corneal nerves were observed in SMILE when compared with LASIK or PRK. Additionally, the incidence of postoperative dry eye syndrome was found to be less problematic in SMILE than in FS-LASIK. SMILE is a promising new surgery for refractive error correction. Prospective and retrospective studies of SMILE have shown that results of SMILE are similar to FS-LASIK. With advances in femtosecond laser technology, SMILE may gain greater acceptance in the future.

Multispectral THz-VIS passive imaging system for hidden threats visualization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kowalski, Marcin; Palka, Norbert; Szustakowski, Mieczyslaw

2013-10-01

Terahertz imaging, is the latest entry into the crowded field of imaging technologies. Many applications are emerging for the relatively new technology. THz radiation penetrates deep into nonpolar and nonmetallic materials such as paper, plastic, clothes, wood, and ceramics that are usually opaque at optical wavelengths. The T-rays have large potential in the field of hidden objects detection because it is not harmful to humans. The main difficulty in the THz imaging systems is low image quality thus it is justified to combine THz images with the high-resolution images from a visible camera. An imaging system is usually composed of various subsystems. Many of the imaging systems use imaging devices working in various spectral ranges. Our goal is to build a system harmless to humans for screening and detection of hidden objects using a THz and VIS cameras.

Coherent detection of THz laser signals in optical fiber systems.

PubMed

Folland, Thomas G; Marshall, Owen P; Beere, Harvey E; Ritchie, David A; Chakraborty, Subhasish

2017-10-16

Terahertz (THz) coherent detectors are crucial for the stabilization and measurement of the properties of quantum cascade lasers (QCLs). This paper describes the exploitation of intra-cavity sum frequency generation to up-convert the emission of a THz QCL to the near infrared for detection with fiber optic coupled components alone. Specifically, a low cost infrared photodiode is used to detect a radio frequency (RF) signal with a signal-to-noise ratio of approximately 20dB, generated by beating the up-converted THz wave and a near infrared local oscillator. This RF beat note allows direct analysis of the THz QCL emission in time and frequency domains. The application of this technique for QCL characterization is demonstrated by analyzing the continuous tuning of the RF signal over 2 GHz, which arises from mode tuning across the QCL's operational current range.

Propagation of THz pulses in rectangular subwavelength dielectric waveguides

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lu, Yao; Wu, Qiang; Zhang, Qi; Wang, Ride; Zhao, Wenjuan; Zhang, Deng; Pan, Chongpei; Qi, Jiwei; Xu, Jingjun

2018-06-01

Rectangular subwavelength waveguides are necessary for the development of micro/nanophotonic devices and on-chip platforms. Using a time-resolved imaging system, we studied the transient properties and the propagation modes of THz pulses in rectangular subwavelength dielectric waveguides. The dynamic process of THz pulses was systematically recorded to a movie. In addition, an anomalous group velocity dispersion was demonstrated in rectangular subwavelength waveguides. By using the effective index method, we theoretically calculated the modes in rectangular subwavelength waveguides, which agree well with the experiments and simulations. This work provides the opportunity to improve the analysis and design of the integrated platforms and photonic devices.

THz limb sounder (TLS) for lower thermospheric wind, oxygen density, and temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Dong L.; Yee, Jeng-Hwa; Schlecht, Erich; Mehdi, Imran; Siles, Jose; Drouin, Brian J.

2016-07-01

Neutral winds are one of the most critical measurements in the lower thermosphere and E region ionosphere (LTEI) for understanding complex electrodynamic processes and ion-neutral interactions. We are developing a high-sensitivity, low-power, noncryogenic 2.06 THz Schottky receiver to measure wind profiles at 100-140 km. The new technique, THz limb sounder (TLS), aims to measure LTEI winds by resolving the wind-induced Doppler shift of 2.06 THz atomic oxygen (OI) emissions. As a transition between fine structure levels in the ground electronic state, the OI emission is in local thermodynamic equilibrium (LTE) at altitudes up to 350 km. This LTE property, together with day-and-night capability and small line-of-sight gradient, makes the OI limb sounding a very attractive technique for neutral wind observations. In addition to the wind measurement, TLS can also retrieve [OI] density and neutral temperature in the LTEI region. TLS leverages rapid advances in THz receiver technologies including subharmonically pumped (SHP) mixers and Schottky-diode-based power multipliers. Current SHP Schottky receivers have produced good sensitivity for THz frequencies at ambient environment temperatures (120-150 K), which are achievable through passively cooling in spaceflight. As an emerging technique, TLS can fill the critical data gaps in the LTEI neutral wind observations to enable detailed studies on the coupling and dynamo processes between charged and neutral molecules.

THz Limb Sounder (TLS) for Lower Thermospheric Wind, Oxygen Density, and Temperature

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wu, Dong L.; Yee, Jeng-Hwa; Schlecht, Erich; Mehdi, Imran; Siles, Jose; Drouin, Brian J.

2016-01-01

Neutral winds are one of the most critical measurements in the lower thermosphere and E region ionosphere (LTEI) for understanding complex electrodynamic processes and ion-neutral interactions. We are developing a high-sensitivity, low-power, noncryogenic 2.06 THz Schottky receiver to measure wind profiles at 100-140 km. The new technique, THz limb sounder (TLS), aims to measure LTEI winds by resolving the wind-induced Doppler shift of 2.06 THz atomic oxygen (OI) emissions. As a transition between fine structure levels in the ground electronic state, the OI emission is in local thermodynamic equilibrium(LTE) at altitudes up to 350km. This LTE property, together with day-and-night capability and small line-of-sight gradient, makes the OI limb sounding a very attractive technique for neutral wind observations. In addition to the wind measurement, TLS can also retrieve [OI] density and neutral temperature in the LTEI region. TLS leverages rapid advances in THz receiver technologies including subharmonically pumped (SHP)mixers and Schottky-diode-based power multipliers. Current SHP Schottky receivers have produced good sensitivity for THz frequencies at ambient environment temperatures (120-150 K), which are achievable through passively cooling in spaceflight. As an emerging technique, TLS can fill the critical data gaps in the LTEI neutral wind observations to enable detailed studies on the coupling and dynamo processes between charged and neutral molecules.

Very high power THz radiation sources

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Carr, G.L.; Martin, Michael C.; McKinney, Wayne R.

2002-10-31

We report the production of high power (20 watts average, {approx} 1 Megawatt peak) broadband THz light based on coherent emission from relativistic electrons. Such sources are ideal for imaging, for high power damage studies and for studies of non-linear phenomena in this spectral range. We describe the source, presenting theoretical calculations and their experimental verification. For clarity we compare this source to one based on ultrafast laser techniques.

Study of transmittance and reflectance spectra of the cornea and the sclera in the THz frequency range

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Iomdina, Elena N.; Goltsman, Gregory N.; Seliverstov, Sergey V.; Sianosyan, Alisa A.; Teplyakova, Kseniya O.; Rusova, Anastasia A.

2016-09-01

An adequate water balance (hydration extent) is one of the basic factors of normal eye function, including its external shells: the cornea and the sclera. Adequate control of corneal and scleral hydration is very important for early diagnosis of a variety of eye diseases, stating indications for and contraindications against keratorefractive surgeries and the choice of contact lens correction solutions. THz systems of creating images in reflected beams are likely to become ideal instruments of noninvasive control of corneal and scleral hydration degrees. This paper reports on the results of a study involving transmittance and reflectance spectra for the cornea and the sclera of rabbit and human eyes, as well as those of the rabbit eye, in the frequency range of 0.13 to 0.32 THz. The dependence of the reflectance coefficient of these tissues on water mass percentage content was determined. The experiments were performed on three corneas, three rabbit scleras, two rabbit eyes, and three human scleras. The preliminary results demonstrate that the proposed technique, based on the use of a continuous THz radiation, may be utilized to create a device for noninvasive control of corneal and scleral hydration, which has clear potential of broad practical application.

A high extinction ratio THz polarizer fabricated by double-bilayer wire grid structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lu, Bin; Wang, Haitao; Shen, Jun; Yang, Jun; Mao, Hongyan; Xia, Liangping; Zhang, Weiguo; Wang, Guodong; Peng, Xiao-Yu; Wang, Deqiang

2016-02-01

We designed a new style of broadband terahertz (THz) polarizer with double-bilayer wire grid structure by fabricating them on both sides of silicon substrate. This THz polarizer shows a high average extinction ratio of 60dB in 0.5 to 2.0 THz frequency range and the maximum of 87 dB at 1.06 THz, which is much higher than that of conventional monolayer wire grid polarizers and single-bilayer wire grid ones.

In vivo analysis of THz wave irradiation induced acute inflammatory response in skin by laser-scanning confocal microscopy.

PubMed

Hwang, Yoonha; Ahn, Jinhyo; Mun, Jungho; Bae, Sangyoon; Jeong, Young Uk; Vinokurov, Nikolay A; Kim, Pilhan

2014-05-19

The recent development of THz sources in a wide range of THz frequencies and power levels has led to greatly increased interest in potential biomedical applications such as cancer and burn wound diagnosis. However, despite its importance in realizing THz wave based applications, our knowledge of how THz wave irradiation can affect a live tissue at the cellular level is very limited. In this study, an acute inflammatory response caused by pulsed THz wave irradiation on the skin of a live mouse was analyzed at the cellular level using intravital laser-scanning confocal microscopy. Pulsed THz wave (2.7 THz, 4 μs pulsewidth, 61.4 μJ per pulse, 3Hz repetition), generated using compact FEL, was used to irradiate an anesthetized mouse's ear skin with an average power of 260 mW/cm(2) for 30 minutes using a high-precision focused THz wave irradiation setup. In contrast to in vitro analysis using cultured cells at similar power levels of CW THz wave irradiation, no temperature change at the surface of the ear skin was observed when skin was examined with an IR camera. To monitor any potential inflammatory response, resident neutrophils in the same area of ear skin were repeatedly visualized before and after THz wave irradiation using a custom-built laser-scanning confocal microscopy system optimized for in vivo visualization. While non-irradiated control skin area showed no changes in the number of resident neutrophils, a massive recruitment of newly infiltrated neutrophils was observed in the THz wave irradiated skin area after 6 hours, which suggests an induction of acute inflammatory response by the pulsed THz wave irradiation on the skin via a non-thermal process.

Intense THz Pulses with large ponderomotive potential generated from large aperture photoconductive antennas.

PubMed

Ropagnol, X; Khorasaninejad, M; Raeiszadeh, M; Safavi-Naeini, S; Bouvier, M; Côté, C Y; Laramée, A; Reid, M; Gauthier, M A; Ozaki, T

2016-05-30

We report the generation of free space terahertz (THz) pulses with energy up to 8.3 ± 0.2 µJ from an encapsulated interdigitated ZnSe Large Aperture Photo-Conductive Antenna (LAPCA). An aperture of 12.2 cm² is illuminated using a 400 nm pump laser with multi-mJ energies at 10 Hz repetition rate. The calculated THz peak electric field is 331 ± 4 kV/cm with a spectrum characterized by a median frequency of 0.28 THz. Given its relatively low frequency, this THz field will accelerate charged particles efficiently having very large ponderomotive energy of 15 ± 1 eV for electrons in vacuum. The scaling of the emission is studied with respect to the dimensions of the antenna, and it is observed that the capacitance of the LAPCA leads to a severe decrease in and distortion of the biasing voltage pulse, fundamentally limiting the maximum applied bias field and consequently the maximum energy of the radiated THz pulses. In order to demonstrate the advantages of this source in the strong field regime, an open-aperture Z-scan experiment was performed on n-doped InGaAs, which showed significant absorption bleaching.

Femtosecond laser structuring of titanium implants

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vorobyev, A. Y.; Guo, Chunlei

2007-06-01

In this study we perform the first femtosecond laser surface treatment of titanium in order to determine the potential of this technology for surface structuring of titanium implants. We find that the femtosecond laser produces a large variety of nanostructures (nanopores, nanoprotrusions) with a size down to 20 nm, multiple parallel grooved surface patterns with a period on the sub-micron level, microroughness in the range of 1-15 μm with various configurations, smooth surface with smooth micro-inhomogeneities, and smooth surface with sphere-like nanostructures down to 10 nm. Also, we have determined the optimal conditions for producing these surface structural modifications. Femtosecond laser treatment can produce a richer variety of surface structures on titanium for implants and other biomedical applications than long-pulse laser treatments.

Strongly Enhanced THz Emission caused by Localized Surface Charges in Semiconducting Germanium Nanowires

PubMed Central

Lee, Woo-Jung; Ma, Jin Won; Bae, Jung Min; Jeong, Kwang-Sik; Cho, Mann-Ho; Kang, Chul; Wi, Jung-Sub

2013-01-01

A principal cause of THz emission in semiconductor nanostructures is deeply involved with geometry, which stimulates the utilization of indirect bandgap semiconductors for THz applications. To date, applications for optoelectronic devices, such as emitters and detectors, using THz radiation have focused only on direct bandgap materials. This paper reports the first observation of strongly enhanced THz emission from Germanium nanowires (Ge NWs). The origin of THz generation from Ge NWs can be interpreted using two terms: high photoexcited electron-hole carriers (Δn) and strong built-in electric field (Eb) at the wire surface based on the relation . The first is related to the extensive surface area needed to trigger an irradiated photon due to high aspect ratio. The second corresponds to the variation of Fermi-level determined by confined surface charges. Moreover, the carrier dynamics of optically excited electrons and holes give rise to phonon emission according to the THz region. PMID:23760467

THz-wave parametric source and its imaging applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kawase, Kodo

2004-08-01

Widely tunable coherent terahertz (THz) wave generation has been demonstrated based on the parametric oscillation using MgO doped LiNbO3 crystal pumped by a Q-switched Nd:YAG laser. This method exhibits multiple advantages like wide tunability, coherency and compactness of its system. We have developed a novel basic technology for terahertz (THz) imaging, which allows detection and identification of chemicals by introducing the component spatial pattern analysis. The spatial distributions of the chemicals were obtained from terahertz multispectral transillumination images, using absorption spectra previously measured with a widely tunable THz-wave parametric oscillator. Further we have applied this technique to the detection and identification of illicit drugs concealed in envelopes. The samples we used were methamphetamine and MDMA, two of the most widely consumed illegal drugs in Japan, and aspirin as a reference.

Femtosecond transient absorption, Raman, and electrochemistry studies of tetrasulfonated copper phthalocyanine in water solutions.

PubMed

Abramczyk, H; Brozek-Płuska, B; Kurczewski, K; Kurczewska, M; Szymczyk, I; Krzyczmonik, P; Błaszczyk, T; Scholl, H; Czajkowski, W

2006-07-20

Ultrafast time-resolved electronic spectra of the primary events induced in the copper tetrasulfonated phthalocyanine Cu(tsPc)4-) in aqueous solution has been measured by femtosecond pump-probe transient absorption spectroscopy. The primary events initiated by the absorption of a photon occurring within the femtosecond time scale are discussed on the basis of the electron transfer mechanism between the adjacent phthalocyanine rings proposed recently in our laboratory. The femtosecond transient absorption results are compared with the low temperature emission spectra obtained with Raman spectroscopy and the voltammetric curves.

Sub-Thz Vibrational Spectroscopy for Analysis of Ovarian Cancer Cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ferrance, Jerome P.; Sizov, Igor; Jazaeri, Amir; Moyer, Aaron; Gelmont, Boris; Globus, Tatiana

2016-06-01

Sub-THz vibrational spectroscopy utilizes wavelengths in the submillimeter-wave range ( 1.5-30 wn), beyond those traditionally used for chemical and biomolecular analysis. This low energy radiation excites low-frequency internal molecular motions (vibrations) involving hydrogen bonds and other weak connections within these molecules. The ability of sub-THz spectroscopy to identify and quantify biological molecules is based on detection of signature resonance absorbance at specific frequencies between 0.05 and 1 THz, for each molecule. The long wavelengths of this radiation, mean that it can even pass through entire cells, detecting the combinations of proteins and nucleic acids that exist within the cell. This research introduces a novel sub-THz resonance spectroscopy instrument with spectral resolution sufficient to identify individual resonance absorption peaks, for the analysis of ovarian cancer cells. In vitro cell cultures of SK-OV-3 and ES-2 cells, two human ovarian cancer subtypes, were characterized and compared with a normal non-transformed human fallopian tube epithelial cell line (FT131). A dramatic difference was observed between the THz absorption spectra of the cancer and normal cell sample materials with much higher absorption intensity and a very strong absorption peak at a frequency of 13 wn dominating the cancer sample spectra. Comparison of experimental spectra with molecular dynamic simulated spectroscopic signatures suggests that the high intensity spectral peak could originate from overexpressed mi-RNA molecules specific for ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer cells are utilized as a proof of concept, but the sub-THz spectroscopy method is very general and could also be applied to other types of cancer.

Bright THz Instrument and Nonlinear THz Science

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-10-30

darkness” Princeton International School of Math and Sciences, Princeton, NY, May 12, 2017. 7. “THz: Imaging Beyond Light” Open Readings 2017, 60th...June  19,  2017.   6.   “Let  light  shine  out  of  darkness”  Princeton  International  School  of   Math  and  Sciences,  Princeton,   NY,  May...a  graduate   of  Ph.D.  in  science,   math ,  engineering,  or  technology  fields   0   Number  who  achieved  a  3.5  GPA  to  4.0  (4.0  max

A THz Superconducting Imaging Array Developed for the DATE5 Telescope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shi, Sheng-Cai; Zhang, Wen; Li, Jing; Miao, Wei; Lin, Zhen-Hui; Lou, Zheng; Yao, Qi-Jun

2016-08-01

Dome A in Antarctica, located at an altitude of 4093 m and with very low temperature in winter down to -83^{circ }C, is an exceptionally dry site. Measurements of the atmospheric transmission in the range of 0.75-15 THz by a Far-infrared/THz Fourier transform spectrometer (FTS) strongly suggest that Dome A is a unique site for ground-based THz observations, especially for the 200- and 350-micron windows. A 5-m THz telescope (DATE5) is therefore proposed for Chinese Antarctic Kunlun Observatory. We are currently developing a THz superconducting imaging array (TeSIA) for the DATE5. The TeSIA will be working at the 350-\\upmu m window, with a pixel number of 32 × 32 and a sensitivity (NEP) of ˜ 10^{-16} W/Hz^{0.5}. Ti transition-edge sensors with time-domain multiplexing and TiN microwave kinetic inductance detectors with frequency-domain multiplexing are both developed for the TeSIA. In this paper, detailed system designs and some measurement results will be presented.

THz spectra and corresponding vibrational modes of DNA base pair cocrystals and polynucleotides.

PubMed

Wang, Fang; Zhao, Dongbo; Dong, Hao; Jiang, Ling; Huang, Lin; Liu, Yunfei; Li, Shuhua

2018-07-05

The generalized energy-based fragmentation (GEBF) approach has been applied to study the THz spectra and vibrational modes of base pair cocrystals under periodic boundary conditions (denoted as PBC-GEBF). Results of vibrational mode reveal that hydrogen bonds play a pivotal role in the pairing process of base crystals, where most NH and CH bonds stretch to some extent. We also found that hydrogen bonds of a self-made A:T cocrystal completely break in a transition from liquid to the solid state, while self-made C:G cocrystal is different and easier to form a cocrystal, as confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and terahertz (THz) spectra. Furthermore, we have studied DNA polynucleotides (in both A and B forms) found that the vibrational modes changed a lot during the process of their forming double strand. Despite the key role played by hydrogen bonds, the key contribution originates from collective motions of the main skeleton. A comparative study of the spectra of some stranded fragments suggests that different sequences or forms have similar spectra in THz band. They distinguish from each other mainly in the low-frequency regions, especially below 1 THz. This study would make great contributions to the molecular dynamics model based DNA long-chain structure simulation in the future study. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Electrically driven nanopillars for THz quantum cascade lasers.

PubMed

Amanti, M I; Bismuto, A; Beck, M; Isa, L; Kumar, K; Reimhult, E; Faist, J

2013-05-06

In this work we present a rapid and parallel process for the fabrication of large scale arrays of electrically driven nanopillars for THz quantum cascade active media. We demonstrate electrical injection of pillars of 200 nm diameter and 2 µm height, over a surface of 1 mm(2). THz electroluminescence from the nanopillars is reported. This result is a promising step toward the realization of zero-dimensional structure for terahertz quantum cascade lasers.

Understanding THz spectra of aqueous solutions: glycine in light and heavy water.

PubMed

Sun, Jian; Niehues, Gudrun; Forbert, Harald; Decka, Dominique; Schwaab, Gerhard; Marx, Dominik; Havenith, Martina

2014-04-02

THz spectroscopy of aqueous solutions has been established as of recently to be a valuable and complementary experimental tool to provide direct insights into the solute-solvent coupling due to hydrogen-bond dynamics involving interfacial water. Despite much experimental progress, understanding THz spectra in terms of molecular motions, akin to mid-infrared spectra, still remains elusive. Here, using the osmoprotectant glycine as a showcase, we demonstrate how this can be achieved by combining THz absorption spectroscopy and ab initio molecular dynamics. The experimental THz spectrum is characterized by broad yet clearly discernible peaks. Based on substantial extensions of available mode-specific decomposition schemes, the experimental spectrum can be reproduced by theory and assigned on an essentially quantitative level. This joint effort reveals an unexpectedly clear picture of the individual contributions of molecular motion to the THz absorption spectrum in terms of distinct modes stemming from intramolecular vibrations, rigid-body-like hindered rotational and translational motion, and specific couplings to interfacial water molecules. The assignment is confirmed by the peak shifts observed in the THz spectrum of deuterated glycine in heavy water, which allow us to separate the distinct modes experimentally.

THz near-field imaging of biological tissues employing synchrotronradiation

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Schade, Ulrich; Holldack, Karsten; Martin, Michael C.

2004-12-23

Terahertz scanning near-field infrared microscopy (SNIM) below 1 THz is demonstrated. The near-field technique benefits from the broadband and highly brilliant coherent synchrotron radiation (CSR) from an electron storage ring and from a detection method based on locking onto the intrinsic time structure of the synchrotron radiation. The scanning microscope utilizes conical wave guides as near-field probes with apertures smaller than the wavelength. Different cone approaches have been investigated to obtain maximum transmittance. Together with a Martin-Puplett spectrometer the set-up enables spectroscopic mapping of the transmittance of samples well below the diffraction limit. Spatial resolution down to about lambda/40 atmore » 2 wavenumbers (0.06 THz) is derived from the transmittance spectra of the near-field probes. The potential of the technique is exemplified by imaging biological samples. Strongly absorbing living leaves have been imaged in transmittance with a spatial resolution of 130 mu-m at about 12 wave numbers (0.36 THz). The THz near-field images reveal distinct structural differences of leaves from different plants investigated. The technique presented also allows spectral imaging of bulky organic tissues. Human teeth samples of various thicknesses have been imaged between 2 and 20 wavenumbers (between 0.06and 0.6 THz). Regions of enamel and dentin within tooth samples are spatially and spectrally resolved, and buried caries lesions are imaged through both the outer enamel and into the underlying dentin.« less

Optical System Design for Noncontact, Normal Incidence, THz Imaging of in vivo Human Cornea.

PubMed

Sung, Shijun; Dabironezare, Shahab; Llombart, Nuria; Selvin, Skyler; Bajwa, Neha; Chantra, Somporn; Nowroozi, Bryan; Garritano, James; Goell, Jacob; Li, Alex; Deng, Sophie X; Brown, Elliott; Grundfest, Warren S; Taylor, Zachary D

2018-01-01

Reflection mode Terahertz (THz) imaging of corneal tissue water content (CTWC) is a proposed method for early, accurate detection and study of corneal diseases. Despite promising results from ex vivo and in vivo cornea studies, interpretation of the reflectivity data is confounded by the contact between corneal tissue and dielectric windows used to flatten the imaging field. Herein, we present an optical design for non-contact THz imaging of cornea. A beam scanning methodology performs angular, normal incidence sweeps of a focused beam over the corneal surface while keeping the source, detector, and patient stationary. A quasioptical analysis method is developed to analyze the theoretical resolution and imaging field intensity profile. These results are compared to the electric field distribution computed with a physical optics analysis code. Imaging experiments validate the optical theories behind the design and suggest that quasioptical methods are sufficient for designing of THz corneal imaging systems. Successful imaging operations support the feasibility of non-contact in vivo imaging. We believe that this optical system design will enable the first, clinically relevant, in vivo exploration of CTWC using THz technology.

IR/THz Double Resonance Spectroscopy Approach for Remote Chemical Detection at Atmospheric Pressure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tanner, Elizabeth A.; Phillips, Dane J.; De Lucia, Frank C.; Everitt, Henry O.

2013-06-01

A remote sensing methodology based on infrared/terahertz (IR/THz) double resonance (DR) spectroscopy is shown to overcome limitations traditionally associated with either IR or THz spectroscopic approaches for detecting trace gases in an atmosphere. The applicability of IR/THz DR spectroscopy is explored by estimating the IR and THz power requirements for detecting a 100 part-per-million-meter cloud of methyl fluoride, methyl chloride, or methyl bromide at ranges up to 1km in three atmospheric windows below 0.3 THz. These prototypical molecules are used to ascertain the dependence of the DR signal-to-noise ratio on IR and THz beam power. A line-tunable CO_2 laser with 100 ps pulse duration generates a DR signature in four rotational transitions on a time scale commensurate with collisional relaxations caused by atmospheric N_2 and O_2. A continuous wave THz beam is frequency tuned to probe one of these rotational transitions so that laser-induced absorption variations in the analyte cloud are detected as temporal power fluctuations synchronized with the laser pulses. A combination of molecule-specific physics and scenario-dependent atmospheric conditions are used to predict the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) for detecting an analyte as a function of cloud column density. A methodology is presented by which the optimal IR/THz pump/probe frequencies are identified. These estimates show the potential for low concentration chemical detection in a challenging atmospheric scenario with currently available or near term hardware components.

[Determination of Carbaryl in Rice by Using FT Far-IR and THz-TDS Techniques].

PubMed

Sun, Tong; Zhang, Zhuo-yong; Xiang, Yu-hong; Zhu, Ruo-hua

2016-02-01

Determination of carbaryl in rice by using Fourier transform far-infrared (FT- Far-IR) and terahertz time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) combined with chemometrics was studied and the spectral characteristics of carbaryl in terahertz region was investigated. Samples were prepared by mixing carbaryl at different amounts with rice powder, and then a 13 mm diameter, and about 1 mm thick pellet with polyethylene (PE) as matrix was compressed under the pressure of 5-7 tons. Terahertz time domain spectra of the pellets were measured at 0.5~1.5 THz, and the absorption spectra at 1.6. 3 THz were acquired with Fourier transform far-IR spectroscopy. The method of sample preparation is so simple that it does not need separation and enrichment. The absorption peaks in the frequency range of 1.8-6.3 THz have been found at 3.2 and 5.2 THz by Far-IR. There are several weak absorption peaks in the range of 0.5-1.5 THz by THz-TDS. These two kinds of characteristic absorption spectra were randomly divided into calibration set and prediction set by leave-N-out cross-validation, respectively. Finally, the partial least squares regression (PLSR) method was used to establish two quantitative analysis models. The root mean square error (RMSECV), the root mean square errors of prediction (RMSEP) and the correlation coefficient of the prediction are used as a basis for the model of performance evaluation. For the R,, a higher value is better; for the RMSEC and RMSEP, lower is better. The obtained results demonstrated that the predictive accuracy of. the two models with PLSR method were satisfactory. For the FT-Far-IR model, the correlation between actual and predicted values of prediction samples (Rv) was 0.99. The root mean square error of prediction set (RMSEP) was 0.008 6, and for calibration set (RMSECV) was 0.007 7. For the THz-TDS model, R. was 0. 98, RMSEP was 0.004 4, and RMSECV was 0.002 5. Results proved that the technology of FT-Far-IR and THz- TDS can be a feasible tool for

Two-dimensional coherent spectroscopy of a THz quantum cascade laser: observation of multiple harmonics.

PubMed

Markmann, Sergej; Nong, Hanond; Pal, Shovon; Fobbe, Tobias; Hekmat, Negar; Mohandas, Reshma A; Dean, Paul; Li, Lianhe; Linfield, Edmund H; Davies, A Giles; Wieck, Andreas D; Jukam, Nathan

2017-09-04

Two-dimensional spectroscopy is performed on a terahertz (THz) frequency quantum cascade laser (QCL) with two broadband THz pulses. Gain switching is used to amplify the first THz pulse and the second THz pulse is used to probe the system. Fourier transforms are taken with respect to the delay time between the two THz pulses and the sampling time of the THz probe pulse. The two-dimensional spectrum consists of three peaks at (ω τ = 0, ω t = ω 0 ), (ω τ = ω 0 , ω t = ω 0 ), and (ω τ = 2ω 0 , ω t = ω 0 ) where ω 0 denotes the lasing frequency. The peak at ω τ = 0 represents the response of the probe to the zero-frequency (rectified) component of the instantaneous intensity and can be used to measure the gain recovery.

Broadband Terahertz Computed Tomography Using a 5k-pixel Real-time THz Camera

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Trichopoulos, Georgios C.; Sertel, Kubilay

2015-07-01

We present a novel THz computed tomography system that enables fast 3-dimensional imaging and spectroscopy in the 0.6-1.2 THz band. The system is based on a new real-time broadband THz camera that enables rapid acquisition of multiple cross-sectional images required in computed tomography. Tomographic reconstruction is achieved using digital images from the densely-packed large-format (80×64) focal plane array sensor located behind a hyper-hemispherical silicon lens. Each pixel of the sensor array consists of an 85 μm × 92 μm lithographically fabricated wideband dual-slot antenna, monolithically integrated with an ultra-fast diode tuned to operate in the 0.6-1.2 THz regime. Concurrently, optimum impedance matching was implemented for maximum pixel sensitivity, enabling 5 frames-per-second image acquisition speed. As such, the THz computed tomography system generates diffraction-limited resolution cross-section images as well as the three-dimensional models of various opaque and partially transparent objects. As an example, an over-the-counter vitamin supplement pill is imaged and its material composition is reconstructed. The new THz camera enables, for the first time, a practical application of THz computed tomography for non-destructive evaluation and biomedical imaging.

Contribution of photocurrent mechanism and influence of plasma length in THz generation by two-color laser induced plasma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alirezaee, Hajar; Sharifian, Mehdi

2018-04-01

The contribution of the photocurrent mechanism has been investigated in terahertz (THz) generation in laser-induced gas plasma. This study was done through comparing the THz amplitude for two phase differences (" separators="| φ = 0 , π / 2 ) between the fundamental pulse and its second harmonic. Our particle-in-cell simulation result showed that this mechanism played the most important role in the two-color regime with a low-frequency range. We also investigated the effect of the plasma channel length on generated THz amplitude, and it was found that THz amplitude would depend significantly on the plasma channel length.

Development of force-detected THz-ESR measurement system and its application to metal porphyrin complexes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takahashi, Hideyuki; Okamoto, Tsubasa; Ohmichi, Eiji; Ohta, Hitoshi

Electron spin resonance spectroscopy in the terahertz region (THz-ESR) is a promising technique to study biological materials such as metalloproteins because it directly probes the metal ion sites that play an important role in the emergence of functionality. By combining THz-ESR with force detection, the samples mass is reduced to the order of ng. This feature is of great advantage because the sample preparation process of biological materials is time-consuming. We developed a force-detected THz-ESR system utilizing optical interferometry for precise cantilever displacement measurement. In order to suppress the sensitivity fluctuation and instability of cantilever dynamics under high magnetic field, the tuning of interferometer is feedback-controlled during a measurement. By using this system, we successfully observed the ESR signal of hemin, which is a model substance of hemoglobin and myoglobin, in THz region.

Photo-conductive detection of continuous THz waves via manipulated ultrafast process in nanostructures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moon, Kiwon; Lee, Eui Su; Lee, Il-Min; Park, Dong Woo; Park, Kyung Hyun

2018-01-01

Time-domain and frequency-domain terahertz (THz) spectroscopy systems often use materials fabricated with exotic and expensive methods that intentionally introduce defects to meet short carrier lifetime requirements. In this study, we demonstrate the development of a nano-photomixer that meets response speed requirements without using defect-incorporated, low-temperature-grown (LTG) semiconductors. Instead, we utilized a thin InGaAs layer grown on a semi-insulating InP substrate by metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) combined with nano-electrodes to manipulate local ultrafast photo-carrier dynamics via a carefully designed field-enhancement and plasmon effect. The developed nano-structured photomixer can detect continuous-wave THz radiation up to a frequency of 2 THz with a peak carrier collection efficiency of 5%, which is approximately 10 times better than the reference efficiency of 0.4%. The better efficiency results from the high carrier mobility of the MOCVD-grown InGaAs thin layer with the coincidence of near-field and plasmon-field distributions in the nano-structure. Our result not only provides a generally applicable methodology for manipulating ultrafast carrier dynamics by means of nano-photonic techniques to break the trade-off relation between the carrier lifetime and mobility in typical LTG semiconductors but also contributes to mass-producible photo-conductive THz detectors to facilitate the widespread application of THz technology.

Discovery of high-gain stimulated polariton scattering near 4  THz from lithium niobate.

PubMed

Chiu, Yu-Chung; Wang, Tsong-Dong; Zhao, Gang; Huang, Yen-Chieh

2017-12-01

Lithium niobate is the most popular material for terahertz wave generation via stimulated polariton scattering (SPS), previously known to have a gain peak near 2 THz. Here we report the discovery of another phase-matched gain peak near 4 THz in lithium niobate, which greatly extends the useful gain spectrum of lithium niobate. Despite the relatively high 4 THz absorption in lithium niobate, the 4 THz SPS becomes dominant over the 2 THz one in an intensely pumped short lithium niobate crystal due to less diffraction-induced absorption and mode-area mismatch. We also demonstrate a signal-seeded OTPO that generates 1.4 nJ at 4.2 THz from lithium niobate with 17.5 mJ pump energy.

Intense Nanosecond-Pulsed Cavity-Dumped Laser Radiation at 1.04 THz

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wilson, Thomas

2013-03-01

We report first results of intense far-infrared (FIR) nanosecond-pulsed laser radiation at 1.04 THz from a previously described[2] cavity-dumped, optically-pumped molecular gas laser. The gain medium, methyl fluoride, is pumped by the 9R20 line of a TEA CO2 laser[3] with a pulse energy of 200 mJ. The THz laser pulses contain of 30 kW peak power in 5 nanosecond pulse widths at a pulse repetition rate of 10 Hz. The line width, measured by a scanning metal-mesh FIR Fabry-Perot interferometer, is 100 MHz. The novel THz laser is being used in experiments to resonantly excite coherent ns-pulsed 1.04 THz longitudinal acoustic phonons in silicon doping-superlattices. The research is supported by NASA EPSCoR NNX11AM04A and AFOSR FA9550-12-1-0100 awards.

Continuous-wave THz vector imaging system utilizing two-tone signal generation and self-mixing detection.

PubMed

Song, Hajun; Hwang, Sejin; An, Hongsung; Song, Ho-Jin; Song, Jong-In

2017-08-21

We propose and demonstrate a continuous-wave vector THz imaging system utilizing a photonic generation of two-tone THz signals and self-mixing detection. The proposed system measures amplitude and phase information simultaneously without the local oscillator reference or phase rotation scheme that is required for heterodyne or homodyne detection. In addition, 2π phase ambiguity that occurs when the sample is thicker than the wavelength of THz radiation can be avoided. In this work, THz signal having two frequency components was generated with a uni-traveling-carrier photodiode and electro-optic modulator on the emitter side and detected with a Schottky barrier diode detector used as a self-mixer on the receiver side. The proposed THz vector imaging system exhibited a 50-dB signal to noise ratio and 0.012-rad phase fluctuation with 100-μs integration time at 325-GHz. With the system, we demonstrate two-dimensional THz phase contrast imaging. Considering the recent use of two-dimensional arrays of Schottky barrier diodes as a THz image sensor, the proposed system is greatly advantageous for realizing a real-time THz vector imaging system due to its simple receiver configuration.

THz imaging system for in vivo human cornea.

PubMed

Sung, Shijun; Selvin, Skyler; Bajwa, Neha; Chantra, Somporn; Nowroozi, Bryan; Garritano, James; Goell, Jacob; Li, Alex; Deng, Sophie X; Brown, Elliott; Grundfest, Warren S; Taylor, Zachary D

2018-01-01

Terahertz (THz) imaging of corneal tissue water content (CTWC) is a proposed method for early, accurate detection and study of corneal diseases. Despite promising results from ex vivo and in vivo cornea studies, interpretation of the reflectivity data is confounded by the contact between corneal tissue and rigid dielectric window used to flatten the imaging field. This work develops a novel imaging system and image reconstruction methods specifically for nearly spherical targets such as human cornea. A prototype system was constructed using a 650 GHz multiplier source and Schottky diode detector. Resolution and imaging field strength measurement from characterization targets correlate well with those predicted by the quasioptical theory and physical optics analysis. Imaging experiments with corneal phantoms and ex vivo corneas demonstrate the hydration sensitivity of the imaging system and reliable measurement of CTWC. We present successful acquisition of non-contact THz images of in vivo human cornea, and discuss strategies for optimizing the imaging system design for clinical use.

CH3D photomixing spectroscopy up to 2.5 THz: New set of rotational and dipole parameters, first THz self-broadening measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bray, Cédric; Cuisset, Arnaud; Hindle, Francis; Bocquet, Robin; Mouret, Gaël; Drouin, Brian J.

2017-03-01

Several previously unmeasured transitions of 12CH3D have been recorded by a terahertz photomixing continuous-wave spectrometer up to QR(10) branch at 2.5 THz. An improved set of rotational constants has been obtained utilizing a THz frequency metrology based on a frequency comb that achieved an averaged frequency position better than 150 kHz on more than fifty ground-state transitions. A detailed analysis of the measured line intensities was undertaken using the multispectrum fitting program and has resulted in a determination of new dipole moment parameters. Measurements at different pressures of the QR(7) transitions provide the first determination of self-broadening coefficients from pure rotational CH3D lines. The THz rotational measurements are consistent with IR rovibrational data but no significant vibrational dependence of self-broadening coefficient may be observed by comparison.

Two color laser driven THz generation in clustered plasma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Malik, Rakhee; Uma, R.; Kumar, Pawan

2017-07-01

A scheme of terahertz (THz) generation, using nonlinear mixing of two color laser (fundamental ω1 and slightly frequency shifted second harmonic ω2 ) in clustered plasma, is investigated. The lasers exert ponderomotive force on cluster electrons and drive density perturbations at 2 ω1 and ω2-ω1 . The density perturbations beat with the oscillatory velocities to produce nonlinear current at ω2-2 ω1 , generating THz radiation. The radiation is enhanced due to cluster plasmon resonance and by phase matching introduced through a density ripple. The generation involves third order nonlinearity and does not require a magnetic field or inhomogeneity to sustain it. We report THz power conversion efficiency ˜ 10-4 at 1 μm and 0.5 μm wavelengths with intensity ˜ 3 ×1014W/cm 2 .

Terahertz (THZ) Imaging

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-03-01

work in image processing for CWD and other security-related imaging with visual, x - ray , infrared and millimeter wave imagery was seen as a jumping-off...advantage of the fact that, unlike x - rays which offer only magnitude information, THz offers phase information. as well. While the magnitude contains...perspective are analyzed, specially compared with X - ray process tomography system. 5. Gregory, I.S.; Tribe, W.R.; Cole, B.E.; Baker, C.; Evans, M.J

Tunable narrow band difference frequency THz wave generation in DAST via dual seed PPLN OPG.

PubMed

Dolasinski, Brian; Powers, Peter E; Haus, Joseph W; Cooney, Adam

2015-02-09

We report a widely tunable narrowband terahertz (THz) source via difference frequency generation (DFG). A narrowband THz source uses the output of dual seeded periodically poled lithium niobate (PPLN) optical parametric generators (OPG) combined in the nonlinear crystal 4-dimthylamino-N-methyl-4-stilbazolium-tosylate (DAST). We demonstrate a seamlessly tunable THZ output that tunes from 1.5 THz to 27 THz with a minimum bandwidth of 3.1 GHz. The effects of dispersive phase matching, two-photon absorption, and polarization were examined and compared to a power emission model that consisted of the current accepted parameters of DAST.

Progress Towards Chirped-Pulse Fourier Transform Thz Spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Douglass, Kevin O.; Plusquellic, David F.; Gerecht, Eyal

2010-06-01

New opportunities are provided by the development of higher power THz frequency multiplier sources, the development of a broadband Chirped-Pulse FTMW spectroscopy technique at microwave and mm Wave frequencies, and recently demonstrated heterodyne hot electron bolometer detection technology in the THz frequency region with near quantum noise-limited performance and high spectral resolution. Combining these three technologies and extending the chirped-pulse technique to 0.85 THz enables a host of new applications. NIST is currently pursing applications as a point sensor for greenhouse gases, volatile organic compounds, and potentially human breath. The generation and detection of phase stable chirped pulses at 850 GHz will be demonstrated. A description of the experimental setup and preliminary data will be presented for nitrous oxide. G.G. Brown, B.C. Dian, K.O. Douglass, S.M. Geyer, S. Shipman and B.H. Pate, Rev.Sci.Instrum. 79 (2008) 053103. E. Gerecht, D. Gu, L. You, K.S. Yngvesson, IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON MICROWAVE THEORY AND TECHNIQUES. 56, (2008) 1083.

Coherent THz light source based on photo-mixing with a UTC-PD and ASE-free tunable diode laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fukuoka, D.; Muro, K.; Noda, K.

2016-02-01

A terahertz (THz) photo-mixing with a THz wave photo-mixer module using a uni-traveling-carrier photodiode (UTCPD) and home-built 1 μm-band ASE-free tunable external-cavity diode lasers (ECDLs) provides a narrow-band (40 MHz) wide range (up to 4.5 THz) coherent tunable THz light source system. Obtained THz-waves reach 100 nW at 0.9 THz and 100 pW at 4.0 THz. The difference frequency between mixing lights can be tuned over 20 THz, and the frequency tuning has a resettability and an accuracy corresponding to the estimation error of FSR 270 MHz hollow-core etalon as a frequency calibrator, around 1 MHz/THz. Some of dips in the frequency dependence of THz-waves caused by water vaper absorption reach a noise floor of this system, so the dynamic range of this system is demonstrated at least 40 dB in power ratio.

Terahertz (THz) Radar: A Solution for Degraded Visibility Environments (DVE)

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-11-01

TECHNICAL REPORT RDMR-WD-16-49 TERAHERTZ (THZ) RADAR: A SOLUTION FOR DEGRADED VISIBILITY ENVIRONMENTS (DVE) Henry O...Terahertz (THz) Radar: A Solution For Degraded Visibility Environments (DVE) 5. FUNDING NUMBERS 6. AUTHOR(S) Henry O. Everitt...to compensate for environmental conditions, allowing for actionable images in Degraded Visibility Environments (DVE). 14. SUBJECT TERMS Radar

Investigation of fingerprints for small polar molecules by using a tunable monochromatic THz source

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Hongqian

Over the past 20 years, considerable efforts have been dedicated to the generation and the application of electromagnetic waves in the Terahertz (THz) regime. Among all of the proposed applications, the THz spectroscopy is probably the most mature and promising one. According to the previous reports, the THz spectroscopy has been extensively applied into many analysis fields, including the investigation of vibrational modes for the crystalline solids, the characterization of electron transport in the condense matters and the identification of explosive materials at a standoff distance. More interestingly, since most gas phase chemicals exhibit unique transition peaks in the THz spectra, one could in principle achieve highly accurate molecular fingerprinting and chemical sensing as well. However, all of the practical THz spectroscopy applications were still greatly hampered by the lack of suitable sources and detectors. In this thesis, a unique approach to measure the THz spectrum is developed based on a novel tunable narrowband source. Unlike the previous THz systems, high power THz pulses were generated by the difference frequency generation processes between two collinearly propagated near infrared laser beams. To tune the output THz signal frequency, one can simply adjust one of the incident beam frequencies. Therefore, based on a convenient wavelength tuning scheme, the transmission spectra can be measured for a series of polar gases with either similar or distinct molecular structures. According to the measured spectra, it is found that the obtained transition frequencies, absorption intensities and molecular constants are all in good agreement with the theoretical results tabulated in the molecular spectroscopic databases, such as the HITRAN database. By further analyzing the transition frequencies, it is also discovered that one can confidently identify each polar molecule and differentiate between various isotopic variants based on their characteristic

Design and Performance of a 2.7 THz Waveguide Tripler

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Maiwald, Frank; Martin, S.; Bruston, J.; Maestrini, A.; Crawford, T.; Siegel, P. H.

2001-01-01

The design and performance of a 0.9 THz to 2.7 THz waveguide tripler are presented. An unusual split block configuration with parallel input and output waveguides accommodates a monolithic membrane diode (MoMeD) circuit. Submicron planar GaAs Schottky diodes in single and antiparallel pairs are implemented with matching filters on a 3-micrometer thick suspended substrate as part of the MoMeD structure. The filters are a combination of short hammerheads and high-low impedance elements. Only a few circuit variations have been measured to date. The best current performance shows an output power of 0.1 microW and an efficiency of 0.002% at the band center frequency of 2.55 THz.

Fabrication and characterization of 8.87 THz schottky barrier mixer diodes for mixer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Wenjie; Li, Qian; An, Ning; Tong, Xiaodong; Zeng, Jianping

2018-04-01

In this paper we report on the fabrication and characterization of GaAs-based THz schottky barrier mixer diodes. Considering the analyzed results as well as fabrication cost and complexity, a group of trade-off parameters was determined. Electron-beam lithography and air-bridge technique have been used to obtain schottky diodes with a cut off frequency of 8.87 THz. Equivalent values of series resistance, ideal factor and junction capacitance of 10.2 (1) Ω, 1.14 (0.03) and 1.76(0.03) respectively have been measured for 0.7um diameter anode devices by DC and RF measurements. The schottky barrier diodes fabrication process is fully planar and very suitable for integration in THz frequency multiplier and mixer circuits. THz Schottky barrier diodes based on such technology with 2 μm diameter anodes have been tested at 1.6 THz in a sub-harmonic mixer.

Integrated planar terahertz resonators for femtomolar sensitivity label-free detection of DNA hybridization.

PubMed

Nagel, Michael; Bolivar, Peter Haring; Brucherseifer, Martin; Kurz, Heinrich; Bosserhoff, Anja; Büttner, Reinhard

2002-04-01

A promising label-free approach for the analysis of genetic material by means of detecting the hybridization of polynucleotides with electromagnetic waves at terahertz (THz) frequencies is presented. Using an integrated waveguide approach, incorporating resonant THz structures as sample carriers and transducers for the analysis of the DNA molecules, we achieve a sensitivity down to femtomolar levels. The approach is demonstrated with time-domain ultrafast techniques based on femtosecond laser pulses for generating and electro-optically detecting broadband THz signals, although the principle can certainly be transferred to other THz technologies.

Expanded opportunities of THz passive camera for the detection of concealed objects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Trofimov, Vyacheslav A.; Trofimov, Vladislav V.; Kuchik, Igor E.

2013-10-01

Among the security problems, the detection of object implanted into either the human body or animal body is the urgent problem. At the present time the main tool for the detection of such object is X-raying only. However, X-ray is the ionized radiation and therefore can not be used often. Other way for the problem solving is passive THz imaging using. In our opinion, using of the passive THz camera may help to detect the object implanted into the human body under certain conditions. The physical reason of such possibility arises from temperature trace on the human skin as a result of the difference in temperature between object and parts of human body. Modern passive THz cameras have not enough resolution in temperature to see this difference. That is why, we use computer processing to enhance the passive THz camera resolution for this application. After computer processing of images captured by passive THz camera TS4, developed by ThruVision Systems Ltd., we may see the pronounced temperature trace on the human body skin from the water, which is drunk by person, or other food eaten by person. Nevertheless, there are many difficulties on the way of full soution of this problem. We illustrate also an improvement of quality of the image captured by comercially available passive THz cameras using computer processing. In some cases, one can fully supress a noise on the image without loss of its quality. Using computer processing of the THz image of objects concealed on the human body, one may improve it many times. Consequently, the instrumental resolution of such device may be increased without any additional engineering efforts.

Efficient femtosecond driven SOX 17 delivery into mouse embryonic stem cells: differentiation studies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thobakgale, Lebogang; Manoto, Sello Lebohang; Lemboumba, Satuurnin Ombinda; Maaza, Malik; Mthunzi-Kufa, Patience

2017-02-01

Embryonic stem cells have great promise in regenerative medicine because of their ability to self-renew and differentiate into various cell types. Delivery of therapeutic genes into cells has already been achieved using of chemical agents and viral vectors with high transfection efficiencies. However, these methods have also been documented as toxic and in the latter case they can cause latent cell infections. In this study we use femtosecond laser pulses to optically deliver genetic material in mouse embryonic stem cells. Femtosecond laser pulses in contrast to the conventional approach, minimises the risk of unwanted side effects because photons are used to create transient pores on the membrane which allow free entry of molecules with no need for delivery agents. Using an Olympus microscope, fluorescence imaging of the samples post irradiation was performed and decreased expression of stage specific embryonic antigen one (SSEA-1) consistent with on-going cellular differentiation was observed. Our results also show that femtosecond laser pulses were effective in delivering SOX 17 plasmid DNA (pSOX17) which resulted in the differentiation of mouse embryonic stem cells into endoderm cells. We thus concluded that laser transfection of stem cells for the purpose of differentiation, holds potential for applications in tissue engineering as a method of generating new cell lines.

Silicon Metasurfaces for Integrated Dual Polarized 1.9 THz Heterodyne Array Instruments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alonso-delPino, Maria

We propose the use of dielectric metasurfaces as the enabling technology to develop a dual polarized heterodyne receiver array with full mapping of the field of view at 1.9 THz. Current heterodyne and non-heterodyne arrays at 1.9 THz are restricted to have sparse mapping in the field of view due to the minimum physical inter-element spacing required between the pixels. Moreover, an integrated dual polarized heterodyne receiver is very difficult to achieve with current technologies at 1.9 THz. We propose the use of metasurfaces that will split the 1.9 THz radiation into two linear polarizations and focus them both on the same receiver plane. Additionally, by overlapping common regions of the metasurface we will have a full mapping of the field of view, i.e. the beams will be highly overlapped in the field of sky observation which is not the case with current generation of array instruments. The metasurface consists of a dielectric planar structure with subwavelength 3D features that controls the amplitude and phase of the electric field that goes through them. These structures are usually used in reflection in the microwave frequency range and has not been used at terahertz frequencies before. We propose the development of these metasurfaces in transmission and integrate them into a multi-pixel heterodyne receiver at 1.9 THz. The silicon micro-machining process developed at JPL allows the fabrication of high aspect ratio multi-depth features on silicon wafers and will allow the integration of both, receiver and metasurfaces, in the same wafer stack. It will lead to a more compact, low-mass, and low loss dual polarized multi-pixel receiver with efficient illumination at 1.9 THz. Even though this work will target the 1.8-2.1 THz band for the CII and OI lines, these designs can be easily scaled to at least 5 THz.

Femtosecond Lasers and Corneal Surgical Procedures.

PubMed

Marino, Gustavo K; Santhiago, Marcony R; Wilson, Steven E

2017-01-01

Our purpose is to present a broad review about the principles, early history, evolution, applications, and complications of femtosecond lasers used in refractive and nonrefractive corneal surgical procedures. Femtosecond laser technology added not only safety, precision, and reproducibility to established corneal surgical procedures such as laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) and astigmatic keratotomy, but it also introduced new promising concepts such as the intrastromal lenticule procedures with refractive lenticule extraction (ReLEx). Over time, the refinements in laser optics and the overall design of femtosecond laser platforms led to it becoming an essential tool for corneal surgeons. In conclusion, femtosecond laser is a heavily utilized tool in refractive and nonrefractive corneal surgical procedures, and further technological advances are likely to expand its applications. Copyright 2017 Asia-Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology.

THz photonic wireless links with 16-QAM modulation in the 375-450 GHz band.

PubMed

Jia, Shi; Yu, Xianbin; Hu, Hao; Yu, Jinlong; Guan, Pengyu; Da Ros, Francesco; Galili, Michael; Morioka, Toshio; Oxenløwe, Leif K

2016-10-17

We propose and experimentally demonstrate THz photonic wireless communication systems with 16-QAM modulation in the 375-450 GHz band. The overall throughput reaches as high as 80 Gbit/s by exploiting four THz channels with 5 Gbaud 16-QAM baseband modulation per channel. We create a coherent optical frequency comb (OFC) for photonic generation of multiple THz carriers based on photo-mixing in a uni-travelling carrier photodiode (UTC-PD). The OFC configuration also allows us to generate reconfigurable THz carriers with low phase noise. The multiple-channel THz radiation is received by using a Schottky mixer based electrical receiver after 0.5 m free-space wireless propagation. 2-channel (40 Gbit/s) and 4-channel (80 Gbit/s) THz photonic wireless links with 16-QAM modulation are reported in this paper, and the bit error rate (BER) performance for all channels in both cases is below the hard decision forward error correction (HD-FEC) threshold of 3.8e-3 with 7% overhead. In addition, we also successfully demonstrate hybrid photonic wireless transmission of 40 Gbit/s 16-QAM signal at carrier frequencies of 400 GHz and 425 GHz over 30 km standard single mode fiber (SSMF) between the optical baseband signal transmitter and the THz wireless transmitter with negligible induced power penalty.

Wideband THz Time Domain Spectroscopy based on Optical Rectification and Electro-Optic Sampling

PubMed Central

Tomasino, A.; Parisi, A.; Stivala, S.; Livreri, P.; Cino, A. C.; Busacca, A. C.; Peccianti, M.; Morandotti, R.

2013-01-01

We present an analytical model describing the full electromagnetic propagation in a THz time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) system, from the THz pulses via Optical Rectification to the detection via Electro Optic-Sampling. While several investigations deal singularly with the many elements that constitute a THz-TDS, in our work we pay particular attention to the modelling of the time-frequency behaviour of all the stages which compose the experimental set-up. Therefore, our model considers the following main aspects: (i) pump beam focusing into the generation crystal; (ii) phase-matching inside both the generation and detection crystals; (iii) chromatic dispersion and absorption inside the crystals; (iv) Fabry-Perot effect; (v) diffraction outside, i.e. along the propagation, (vi) focalization and overlapping between THz and probe beams, (vii) electro-optic sampling. In order to validate our model, we report on the comparison between the simulations and the experimental data obtained from the same set-up, showing their good agreement. PMID:24173583

THz Hot-Electron Photon Counter

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Karasik, Boris S.; Sergeev, Andrei V.

2004-01-01

We present a concept for the hot-electron transition-edge sensor capable of counting THz photons. The main need for such a sensor is a spectroscopy on future space telescopes where a background limited NEP approx. 10(exp -20) W/H(exp 1/2) is expected at around 1 THz. Under these conditions, the rate of photon arrival is very low and any currently imaginable detector with sufficient sensitivity will operate in the photon counting mode. The Hot-Electron Photon Counter based on a submicron-size Ti bridge has a very low heat capacity which provides a high enough energy resolution (approx.140 GHz) at 0.3 K. With the sensor time constant of a few microseconds, the dynamic range would be approx. 30 dB. The sensor couples to radiation via a planar antenna and is read by a SQUID amplifier or by a 1-bit RSFQ ADC. A compact array of the antenna-coupled counters can be fabricated on a silicon wafer without membranes.

THz-waves channeling in a monolithic saddle-coil for Dynamic Nuclear Polarization enhanced NMR

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Macor, A.; de Rijk, E.; Annino, G.; Alberti, S.; Ansermet, J.-Ph.

2011-10-01

A saddle coil manufactured by electric discharge machining (EDM) from a solid piece of copper has recently been realized at EPFL for Dynamic Nuclear Polarization enhanced Nuclear Magnetic Resonance experiments (DNP-NMR) at 9.4 T. The corresponding electromagnetic behavior of radio-frequency (400 MHz) and THz (263 GHz) waves were studied by numerical simulation in various measurement configurations. Moreover, we present an experimental method by which the results of the THz-wave numerical modeling are validated. On the basis of the good agreement between numerical and experimental results, we conducted by numerical simulation a systematic analysis on the influence of the coil geometry and of the sample properties on the THz-wave field, which is crucial in view of the optimization of DNP-NMR in solids.

Quasi-steady-state air plasma channel produced by a femtosecond laser pulse sequence

PubMed Central

Lu, Xin; Chen, Shi-You; Ma, Jing-Long; Hou, Lei; Liao, Guo-Qian; Wang, Jin-Guang; Han, Yu-Jing; Liu, Xiao-Long; Teng, Hao; Han, Hai-Nian; Li, Yu-Tong; Chen, Li-Ming; Wei, Zhi-Yi; Zhang, Jie

2015-01-01

A long air plasma channel can be formed by filamentation of intense femtosecond laser pulses. However, the lifetime of the plasma channel produced by a single femtosecond laser pulse is too short (only a few nanoseconds) for many potential applications based on the conductivity of the plasma channel. Therefore, prolonging the lifetime of the plasma channel is one of the key challenges in the research of femtosecond laser filamentation. In this study, a unique femtosecond laser source was developed to produce a high-quality femtosecond laser pulse sequence with an interval of 2.9 ns and a uniformly distributed single-pulse energy. The metre scale quasi-steady-state plasma channel with a 60–80 ns lifetime was formed by such pulse sequences in air. The simulation study for filamentation of dual femtosecond pulses indicated that the plasma channel left by the previous pulse was weakly affected the filamentation of the next pulse in sequence under our experimental conditions. PMID:26493279

Ultrafast control and monitoring of material properties using terahertz pulses

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bowlan, Pamela Renee

These are a set of slides on ultrafast control and monitoring of material properties using terahertz pulses. A few of the topics covered in these slides are: How fast is a femtosecond (fs), Different frequencies probe different properties of molecules or solids, What can a THz pulse do to a material, Ultrafast spectroscopy, Generating and measuring ultrashort THz pulses, Tracking ultrafast spin dynamics in antiferromagnets through spin wave resonances, Coherent two-dimensional THz spectroscopy, and Probing vibrational dynamics at a surface. Conclusions are: Coherent two-dimensional THz spectroscopy: a powerful approach for studying coherence and dynamics of low energy resonances. Applying thismore » to graphene we investigated the very strong THz light mater interaction which dominates over scattering. Useful for studying coupled excitations in multiferroics and monitoring chemical reactions. Also, THz-pump, SHG-probe spectoscopy: an ultrafast, surface sensitive probe of atomic-scale symmetry changes and nonlinear phonon dymanics. We are using this in Bi 2Se 3 to investigate the nonlinear surface phonon dynamics. This is potentially very useful for studying catalysis.« less

Theory of terahertz emission from femtosecond-laser-induced microplasmas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thiele, I.; Nuter, R.; Bousquet, B.; Tikhonchuk, V.; Skupin, S.; Davoine, X.; Gremillet, L.; Bergé, L.

2016-12-01

We present a theoretical investigation of terahertz (THz) generation in laser-induced gas plasmas. The work is strongly motivated by recent experimental results on microplasmas, but our general findings are not limited to such a configuration. The electrons and ions are created by tunnel ionization of neutral atoms, and the resulting plasma is heated by collisions. Electrons are driven by electromagnetic, convective, and diffusive sources and produce a macroscopic current which is responsible for THz emission. The model naturally includes both ionization current and transition-Cherenkov mechanisms for THz emission, which are usually investigated separately in the literature. The latter mechanism is shown to dominate for single-color multicycle laser pulses, where the observed THz radiation originates from longitudinal electron currents. However, we find that the often discussed oscillations at the plasma frequency do not contribute to the THz emission spectrum. In order to predict the scaling of the conversion efficiency with pulse energy and focusing conditions, we propose a simplified description that is in excellent agreement with rigorous particle-in-cell simulations.

Controlling nanoscale acoustic strains in silicon using chirped femtosecond laser pulses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tzianaki, E.; Bakarezos, M.; Tsibidis, G. D.; Petrakis, S.; Loukakos, P. A.; Kosmidis, C.; Tatarakis, M.; Papadogiannis, N. A.

2016-06-01

The influence of femtosecond laser pulse chirp on laser-generated longitudinal acoustic strains in Si (100) monocrystal substrates is studied. Degenerate femtosecond pump-probe transient reflectivity measurements are performed using a layered structure of thin Ti transducer film on an Si substrate. Experimental results show that acoustic strains, manifested as strong Brillouin oscillations, are more effectively induced when negatively chirped femtosecond laser pulses pump the transducer. These results are theoretically supported by a modified thermo-mechanical model based on the combination of a revised two-temperature model and elasticity theory that takes into account the instantaneous frequency of the chirped femtosecond laser pump pulses.

Femtosecond lasers for microsurgery of cornea

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vartapetov, Sergei K.; Khudyakov, D. V.; Lapshin, Konstantin E.; Obidin, Aleksei Z.; Shcherbakov, Ivan A.

2012-03-01

The review of femtosecond laser installations for medical applications is given and a new femtosecond ophthalmologic system for creation of a flap of corneal tissue during the LASIK operation is described. An all-fibre femtosecond laser emitting ~400-fs pulses at 1067 nm is used. The pulse repetition rate can vary from 200 kHz up to 1 MHz. The output energy of the femtosecond system does not exceed 1 μJ. A specially developed objective with small spherical and chromatic aberrations is applied to focus laser radiation to an area of an eye cornea. The size of the focusing spot does not exceed 3 μm. To process the required area, scanning by a laser beam is applied with a speed no less than 5 m s-1. At a stage of preliminary tests of the system, the Κ8 glass, organic PMMA glass and specially prepared agarose gels are used as a phantom of an eye. The femtosecond system is successfully clinically tested on a plenty of eyes of a pig and on several human eyes. The duration of the procedure of creation of a corneal flap does not exceed 20 s.

THz acoustic phonon spectroscopy and nanoscopy by using piezoelectric semiconductor heterostructures.

PubMed

Mante, Pierre-Adrien; Huang, Yu-Ru; Yang, Szu-Chi; Liu, Tzu-Ming; Maznev, Alexei A; Sheu, Jinn-Kong; Sun, Chi-Kuang

2015-02-01

Thanks to ultrafast acoustics, a better understanding of acoustic dynamics on a short time scale has been obtained and new characterization methods at the nanoscale have been developed. Among the materials that were studied during the development of ultrafast acoustics, nitride based heterostructures play a particular role due to their piezoelectric properties and the possibility to generate phonons with over-THz frequency and bandwidth. Here, we review some of the work performed using this type of structure, with a focus on THz phonon spectroscopy and nanoscopy. First, we present a brief description of the theory of coherent acoustic phonon generation by piezoelectric heterostructure. Then the first experimental observation of coherent acoustic phonon generated by the absorption of ultrashort light pulses in piezoelectric heterostructures is presented. From this starting point, we then present some methods developed to realize customizable phonon generation. Finally we review some more recent applications of these structures, including imaging with a nanometer resolution, broadband attenuation measurements with a frequency up to 1THz and phononic bandgap characterization. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Study of blood plasma optical properties in mice grafted with Ehrlich carcinoma in the frequency range 0.1-1.0 THz

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smolyanskaya, O. A.; Kravtsenyuk, O. V.; Panchenko, A. V.; Odlyanitskiy, E. L.; Guillet, J. P.; Cherkasova, O. P.; Khodzitsky, M. K.

2017-12-01

In the course of in vitro studies of blood of laboratory animals with progressing Ehrlich carcinoma, we have revealed the change of the blood plasma optical properties in the THz range, which can be used for developing the express diagnostics of the presence of oncological diseases. An applied software package is elaborated that allows the phantoms of biological samples having a complex structure to be numerically simulated and the parameters of the electromagnetic wave reflected from these samples in the THz frequency range to be calculated. Presented at the Fundamentals of Laser Micro- and Nanotechnologies (FLAMN-16) International Symposium (Pushkin, Leningrad oblast, 27 June to 1 July 2016).

Low-loss waveguides for THz guidance and devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rahman, B. M. A.; Themistos, C.; Tanvir, H.; Uthman, M.; Quadir, A.; Markides, C.

2013-03-01

The terahertz (THz) region occupies a large portion of the electromagnetic spectrum, located between the microwave and optical frequencies and normally is defined as the band ranging from 0.1 to 10 THz. In recent years, this intermediate THz radiation band has attracted considerable interest, because it offers significant scientific and technological potential for applications in many fields, such as sensing [1], imaging [2] and spectroscopy [3]. However, waveguiding in this intermediate spectral region is a major challenge and strong dielectric and conductive losses in the terahertz frequency range have been a major problem for waveguiding. The conventional guiding structures exemplified by microstrips, coplanar striplines and coplanar waveguides [4] are highly lossy and dispersive. However, so far the most promising dielectric waveguides have been the use of photonic crystal fibers at terahertz frequencies [5, 6] and metal coated guides [7] at terahertz frequencies. In this paper, various types of practical dielectric and metal coated waveguides are evaluated and design optimization of Quantum Cascade Lasers, MMI-based power splitters and narrow-band filters are presented, by using full-vectorial finite element method [8].

High peak power THz source for ultrafast electron diffraction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Shengguang

2018-01-01

Terahertz (THz) science and technology have already become the research highlight at present. In this paper, we put forward a device setup to carry out ultrafast fundamental research. A photocathode RF gun generates electron bunches with ˜MeV energy, ˜ps bunch width and about 25pC charge. The electron bunches inject the designed wiggler, the coherent radiation at THz spectrum emits from these bunches and increases rapidly until the saturation at ˜MW within a short wiggler. THz pulses can be used as pump to stimulate an ultra-short excitation in some kind of sample. Those electron bunches out of wiggler can be handled into bunches with ˜1pC change, small beam spot and energy spread to be probe. Because the pump and probe comes from the same electron source, synchronization between pump and probe is inherent. The whole facility can be compacted on a tabletop.

3D THz hyperspectrum applied in security check-in

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Damian, V.; Logofǎtu, P. C.; Vasile, T.

2016-12-01

We developed a measuring technology using a TDS-THz system to construct hyperspectral images of some objects, including hazardous materials. "T-rays" (the THz spectral domain of the light) have a growing importance in security and imagistic domain. Due to their property of penetrating through dielectric objects, and using non-ionizing radiations, the THz systems have become a standard for "hot-places" (airports, train stations etc.). The hyperspectral images are 3D images having 2D spatial dimension and one spectral dimension. In this way, we obtain simultaneously information about the form of the object and its molecular composition. For discriminating between substances, we must first build a database of spectra for hazardous and dangerous substances. We experiment our system on some items (among them a firecracker, a cigarette and a metal collar) and we tried to discriminate between them using the database of spectra.

THz pulse doubler at FLASH: double pulses for pump–probe experiments at X-ray FELs

PubMed Central

Zapolnova, Ekaterina; Golz, Torsten; Pan, Rui; Klose, Karsten; Stojanovic, Nikola

2018-01-01

FLASH, the X-ray free-electron laser in Hamburg, Germany, employs a narrowband high-field accelerator THz source for unique THz pump X-ray probe experiments. However, the large difference in optical paths of the THz and X-ray beamlines prevents utilization of the machine’s full potential (e.g. extreme pulse energies in the soft X-ray range). To solve this issue, lasing of double electron bunches, separated by 28 periods of the driving radiofrequency (at 1.3 GHz), timed for the temporal overlap of THz and X-ray pulses at the experimental station has been employed. In order to optimize conditions for a typical THz pump X-ray probe experiment, X-ray lasing of the first bunch to one-sixth of that of the second has been suppressed. Finally, synchronization of THz radiation pulses was measured to be ∼20 fs (r.m.s.), and a solution for monitoring the arrival time for achieving higher temporal resolution is presented. PMID:29271749

THz pulse doubler at FLASH: double pulses for pump-probe experiments at X-ray FELs.

PubMed

Zapolnova, Ekaterina; Golz, Torsten; Pan, Rui; Klose, Karsten; Schreiber, Siegfried; Stojanovic, Nikola

2018-01-01

FLASH, the X-ray free-electron laser in Hamburg, Germany, employs a narrowband high-field accelerator THz source for unique THz pump X-ray probe experiments. However, the large difference in optical paths of the THz and X-ray beamlines prevents utilization of the machine's full potential (e.g. extreme pulse energies in the soft X-ray range). To solve this issue, lasing of double electron bunches, separated by 28 periods of the driving radiofrequency (at 1.3 GHz), timed for the temporal overlap of THz and X-ray pulses at the experimental station has been employed. In order to optimize conditions for a typical THz pump X-ray probe experiment, X-ray lasing of the first bunch to one-sixth of that of the second has been suppressed. Finally, synchronization of THz radiation pulses was measured to be ∼20 fs (r.m.s.), and a solution for monitoring the arrival time for achieving higher temporal resolution is presented.

Investigations into dual-grating THz-driven accelerators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wei, Y.; Ischebeck, R.; Dehler, M.; Ferrari, E.; Hiller, N.; Jamison, S.; Xia, G.; Hanahoe, K.; Li, Y.; Smith, J. D. A.; Welsch, C. P.

2018-01-01

Advanced acceleration technologies are receiving considerable interest in order to miniaturize future particle accelerators. One such technology is the dual-grating dielectric structures, which can support accelerating fields one to two orders of magnitude higher than the metal RF cavities in conventional accelerators. This opens up the possibility of enabling high accelerating gradients of up to several GV/m. This paper investigates numerically a quartz dual-grating structure which is driven by THz pulses to accelerate electrons. Geometry optimizations are carried out to achieve the trade-offs between accelerating gradient and vacuum channel gap. A realistic electron bunch available from the future Compact Linear Accelerator for Research and Applications (CLARA) is loaded into an optimized 100-period dual-grating structure for a detailed wakefield study. A THz pulse is then employed to interact with this CLARA bunch in the optimized structure. The computed beam quality is analyzed in terms of emittance, energy spread and loaded accelerating gradient. The simulations show that an accelerating gradient of 348 ± 12 MV/m with an emittance growth of 3.0% can be obtained.

Intense THz pulses cause H2AX phosphorylation and activate DNA damage response in human skin tissue

PubMed Central

Titova, Lyubov V.; Ayesheshim, Ayesheshim K.; Golubov, Andrey; Fogen, Dawson; Rodriguez-Juarez, Rocio; Hegmann, Frank A.; Kovalchuk, Olga

2013-01-01

Recent emergence and growing use of terahertz (THz) radiation for medical imaging and public security screening raise questions on reasonable levels of exposure and health consequences of this form of electromagnetic radiation. In particular, picosecond-duration THz pulses have shown promise for novel diagnostic imaging techniques. However, the effects of THz pulses on human cells and tissues thus far remain largely unknown. We report on the investigation of the biological effects of pulsed THz radiation on artificial human skin tissues. We observe that exposure to intense THz pulses for ten minutes leads to a significant induction of H2AX phosphorylation, indicating that THz pulse irradiation may cause DNA damage in exposed skin tissue. At the same time, we find a THz-pulse-induced increase in the levels of several proteins responsible for cell-cycle regulation and tumor suppression, suggesting that DNA damage repair mechanisms are quickly activated. Furthermore, we find that the cellular response to pulsed THz radiation is significantly different from that induced by exposure to UVA (400 nm). PMID:23577291

Intense THz pulses cause H2AX phosphorylation and activate DNA damage response in human skin tissue.

PubMed

Titova, Lyubov V; Ayesheshim, Ayesheshim K; Golubov, Andrey; Fogen, Dawson; Rodriguez-Juarez, Rocio; Hegmann, Frank A; Kovalchuk, Olga

2013-04-01

Recent emergence and growing use of terahertz (THz) radiation for medical imaging and public security screening raise questions on reasonable levels of exposure and health consequences of this form of electromagnetic radiation. In particular, picosecond-duration THz pulses have shown promise for novel diagnostic imaging techniques. However, the effects of THz pulses on human cells and tissues thus far remain largely unknown. We report on the investigation of the biological effects of pulsed THz radiation on artificial human skin tissues. We observe that exposure to intense THz pulses for ten minutes leads to a significant induction of H2AX phosphorylation, indicating that THz pulse irradiation may cause DNA damage in exposed skin tissue. At the same time, we find a THz-pulse-induced increase in the levels of several proteins responsible for cell-cycle regulation and tumor suppression, suggesting that DNA damage repair mechanisms are quickly activated. Furthermore, we find that the cellular response to pulsed THz radiation is significantly different from that induced by exposure to UVA (400 nm).

Simplified THz Instrumentation for High-Field DNP-NMR Spectroscopy

PubMed Central

Sirigiri, Jagadishwar R.

2012-01-01

We present an alternate simplified concept to irradiate a nuclear magnetic resonance sample with terahertz (THz) radiation for dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP) experiments using the TE01 circular waveguide mode for transmission of the THz power and the illumination of the DNP sample by either the TE01 or TE11 mode. Using finite element method and 3D electromagnetic simulations we demonstrate that the average value of the transverse magnetic field induced by the THz radiation and responsible for the DNP effect using the TE11 or the TE01 mode are comparable to that generated by the HE11 mode and a corrugated waveguide. The choice of the TE11/TE01 mode allows the use of a smooth-walled, oversized waveguide that is easier to fabricate and less expensive than a corrugated waveguide required for transmission of the HE11 mode. Also, the choice of the TE01 mode can lead to a simplification of gyrotron oscillators that operate in the TE0n mode, by employing an on-axis rippled-wall mode converter to convert the TE0n mode into the TE01 mode either inside or outside of the gyrotron tube. These novel concepts will lead to a significant simplification of the gyrotron, the transmission line and the THz coupler, which are the three main components of a DNP system. PMID:22977293

Broadband and high modulation-depth THz modulator using low bias controlled VO2-integrated metasurface.

PubMed

Zhou, Gaochao; Dai, Penghui; Wu, Jingbo; Jin, Biaobing; Wen, Qiye; Zhu, Guanghao; Shen, Ze; Zhang, Caihong; Kang, Lin; Xu, Weiwei; Chen, Jian; Wu, Peiheng

2017-07-24

An active vanadium dioxide integrated metasurface offering broadband transmitted terahertz wave modulation with large modulation-depth under electrical control is demonstrated. The device consists of metal bias-lines arranged with grid-structure patterned vanadium dioxide (VO 2 ) film on sapphire substrate. Amplitude transmission is continuously tuned from more than 78% to 28% or lower in the frequency range from 0.3 THz to 1.0 THz, by means of electrical bias at temperature of 68 °C. The physical mechanism underlying the device's electrical tunability is investigated and found to be attributed to the ohmic heating. The developed device possessing over 87% modulation depth with 0.7 THz frequency band is expected to have many potential applications in THz regime such as tunable THz attenuator.

Spontaneous Energy Concentration in Energetic Molecules, Interfaces and Composites: Response to Ultrasound and THz Radiation

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-12-21

SUPPLEMENTARY NOTES 14. ABSTRACT The effects of weak energies, THz and ultrasound, on energetic materials, was studied experimentally using laser...project involves fundamental research to investigate the detailed effects of THz and ultrasound, so called " weak energies", on energetic materials...EM). The focus is on mechanisms that produce spontaneous energy concentration. The relevant Navy mission is the potential use of weak energies to

Observation of a different birefringence order at optical and THz frequencies in LBO crystal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Andreev, Yu. M.; Kokh, A. E.; Kokh, K. A.; Lanskii, G. V.; Litvinenko, K.; Mamrashev, A. A.; Molloy, J. F.; Murdin, B.; Naftaly, M.; Nikolaev, N. A.; Svetlichnyi, V. A.

2017-04-01

THz optical properties of lithium borate (LBO) crystals were measured using time-domain spectroscopy (TDS). The LBO crystal samples were of high optical quality and were cut and polished along the 〈100〉, 〈010〉 and 〈001〉 axes. Two independent measurements were performed in order to confirm the reproducibility and consistency of results. The contradictions in the previously published data on the THz optical properties of LBO were clarified. It was shown that the birefringence order at THz frequencies is nz THz. This is explained in terms of ionic polarizability and is consistent with the fact that the THz absorption coefficient for a wave polarized along the Z-axis is more than an order of magnitude lower than for the X and Y axes. Absorption as low as 0.2 cm-1 was found at frequencies up to 0.5 THz for a wave polarized parallel to the Z-axis. A set of new dispersion equations was designed for the entire transparency range.

THz-waves channeling in a monolithic saddle-coil for Dynamic Nuclear Polarization enhanced NMR.

PubMed

Macor, A; de Rijk, E; Annino, G; Alberti, S; Ansermet, J-Ph

2011-10-01

A saddle coil manufactured by electric discharge machining (EDM) from a solid piece of copper has recently been realized at EPFL for Dynamic Nuclear Polarization enhanced Nuclear Magnetic Resonance experiments (DNP-NMR) at 9.4 T. The corresponding electromagnetic behavior of radio-frequency (400 MHz) and THz (263 GHz) waves were studied by numerical simulation in various measurement configurations. Moreover, we present an experimental method by which the results of the THz-wave numerical modeling are validated. On the basis of the good agreement between numerical and experimental results, we conducted by numerical simulation a systematic analysis on the influence of the coil geometry and of the sample properties on the THz-wave field, which is crucial in view of the optimization of DNP-NMR in solids. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Tunable THz polariton laser based on 1342  nm wavelength for enhanced terahertz wave extraction.

PubMed

Lee, Andrew J; Spence, David J; Pask, Helen M

2017-07-15

We detail the operation of a THz laser source based on non-linear stimulated polariton scattering (SPS) in Mg:LiNbO₃. This system utilizes a fundamental wavelength of 1342 nm to completely avoid the negative effect of free-carrier generation within high-resistivity silicon (Si) prisms used to extract THz radiation from the Mg:LiNbO₃ crystal. THz power of up to 23.6 μW (62.3 μW when chopped at 50% duty cycle) was detected at 1.33 THz, and frequency tunability across the range 1.05-2.2 THz was achieved.

Role of Terahertz (THz) Fluctuations in the Allosteric Properties of the PDZ Domains.

PubMed

Conti Nibali, Valeria; Morra, Giulia; Havenith, Martina; Colombo, Giorgio

2017-11-09

With the aim of investigating the relationship between the fast fluctuations of proteins and their allosteric behavior, we perform molecular dynamics simulations of two model PDZ domains with differential allosteric responses. We focus on protein dynamics in the THz regime (0.1-3 THz) as opposed to lower frequencies. By characterizing the dynamic modulation of the protein backbone induced by ligand binding in terms of single residue and pairwise distance fluctuations, we identify a response nucleus modulated by the ligand that is visible only at THz frequencies. The residues of this nucleus undergo a significant stiffening and an increase in mutual coordination upon binding. Additionally, we find that the dynamic modulation is significantly more intense for the side chains, where it is also redistributed to distal regions not immediately in contact with the ligand allowing us to better define the response nucleus at THz frequencies. The overlap between the known allosterically responding residues of the investigated PDZ domains and the modulated region highlighted here suggests that fast THz dynamics could play a role in allosteric mechanisms.

Identification of explosives and drugs and inspection of material defects with THz radiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Cunlin; Mu, Kaijun; Jiang, Xue; Jiao, Yueying; Zhang, Liangliang; Zhou, Qingli; Zhang, Yan; Shen, Jingling; Zhao, Guoshong; Zhang, X.-C.

2008-03-01

We report the sensing of explosive materials and illicit drugs by using terahertz time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) and imaging. Several explosive materials, such as γ-HNIW, RDX, 2,4-DNT, TNT, Nitro-aniline, and illicit drugs, such as methamphetamine (MA) etc were researched here. Non-destructive testing, as one of the major applications of THz imaging, can be applied to an area of critical need: the testing of aerospace materials. Composite materials such as carbon fiber are widely used in this industry. The nature of their use requires technologies that are able to differentiate between safe and unsafe materials, due to either manufacturing tolerance or damage acquired while in use. In this paper, we discuss the applicability of terahertz (THz) imaging systems to this purpose, focusing on graphite fiber composite materials, carbon silicon composite materials and so on. We applied THz imaging technology to evaluate the fire damage to a variety of carbon fiber composite samples. Major carbon fiber materials have polarization-dependent reflectivity in THz frequency range, and we show how the polarization dependence changes versus the burned damage level. Additionally, time domain information acquired through a THz time-domain spectroscopy (TDS) system provides further information with which to characterize the damage. We also detect fuel tank insulation foam panel defects with pulse and continuous-wave (CW) terahertz system.

Intense terahertz pulses from SLAC electron beams using coherent transition radiation.

PubMed

Wu, Ziran; Fisher, Alan S; Goodfellow, John; Fuchs, Matthias; Daranciang, Dan; Hogan, Mark; Loos, Henrik; Lindenberg, Aaron

2013-02-01

SLAC has two electron accelerators, the Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS) and the Facility for Advanced Accelerator Experimental Tests (FACET), providing high-charge, high-peak-current, femtosecond electron bunches. These characteristics are ideal for generating intense broadband terahertz (THz) pulses via coherent transition radiation. For LCLS and FACET respectively, the THz pulse duration is typically 20 and 80 fs RMS and can be tuned via the electron bunch duration; emission spectra span 3-30 THz and 0.5 THz-5 THz; and the energy in a quasi-half-cycle THz pulse is 0.2 and 0.6 mJ. The peak electric field at a THz focus has reached 4.4 GV/m (0.44 V/Å) at LCLS. This paper presents measurements of the terahertz pulses and preliminary observations of nonlinear materials response.

Femtosecond lasers for microsurgery of cornea

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Vartapetov, Sergei K; Khudyakov, D V; Lapshin, Konstantin E

The review of femtosecond laser installations for medical applications is given and a new femtosecond ophthalmologic system for creation of a flap of corneal tissue during the LASIK operation is described. An all-fibre femtosecond laser emitting {approx}400-fs pulses at 1067 nm is used. The pulse repetition rate can vary from 200 kHz up to 1 MHz. The output energy of the femtosecond system does not exceed 1 {mu}J. A specially developed objective with small spherical and chromatic aberrations is applied to focus laser radiation to an area of an eye cornea. The size of the focusing spot does not exceedmore » 3 {mu}m. To process the required area, scanning by a laser beam is applied with a speed no less than 5 m s{sup -1}. At a stage of preliminary tests of the system, the {Kappa}8 glass, organic PMMA glass and specially prepared agarose gels are used as a phantom of an eye. The femtosecond system is successfully clinically tested on a plenty of eyes of a pig and on several human eyes. The duration of the procedure of creation of a corneal flap does not exceed 20 s.« less

Construction of a femtosecond laser microsurgery system.

PubMed

Steinmeyer, Joseph D; Gilleland, Cody L; Pardo-Martin, Carlos; Angel, Matthew; Rohde, Christopher B; Scott, Mark A; Yanik, Mehmet Fatih

2010-03-01

Femtosecond laser microsurgery is a powerful method for studying cellular function, neural circuits, neuronal injury and neuronal regeneration because of its capability to selectively ablate sub-micron targets in vitro and in vivo with minimal damage to the surrounding tissue. Here, we present a step-by-step protocol for constructing a femtosecond laser microsurgery setup for use with a widely available compound fluorescence microscope. The protocol begins with the assembly and alignment of beam-conditioning optics at the output of a femtosecond laser. Then a dichroic mount is assembled and installed to direct the laser beam into the objective lens of a standard inverted microscope. Finally, the laser is focused on the image plane of the microscope to allow simultaneous surgery and fluorescence imaging. We illustrate the use of this setup by presenting axotomy in Caenorhabditis elegans as an example. This protocol can be completed in 2 d.

Hot-Electron Gallium Nitride Two Dimensional Electron Gas Nano-bolometers For Advanced THz Spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ramaswamy, Rahul

Two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) in semiconductor heterostructures was identified as a promising medium for hot-electron bolometers (HEB) in the early 90s. Up until now all research based on 2DEG HEBs is done using high mobility AlGaAs/GaAs heterostructures. These systems have demonstrated very good performance, but only in the sub terahertz (THz) range. However, above ˜0.5 THz the performance of AlGaAs/GaAs detectors drastically deteriorates. It is currently understood, that detectors fabricated from standard AlGaAs/GaAs heterostructures do not allow for reasonable coupling to THz radiation while maintaining high conversion efficiency. In this work we have developed 2DEG HEBs based on disordered Gallium Nitride (GaN) semiconductor, that operate at frequencies beyond 1THz at room temperature. We observe strong free carrier absorption at THz frequencies in our disordered 2DEG film due to Drude absorption. We show the design and fabrication procedures of novel micro-bolometers having ultra-low heat capacities. In this work the mechanism of 2DEG response to THz radiation is clearly identified as bolometric effect through our direct detection measurements. With optimal doping and detector geometry, impedances of 10--100 O have been achieved, which allow integration of these devices with standard THz antennas. We also demonstrate performance of the antennas used in this work in effectively coupling THz radiation to the micro-bolometers through polarization dependence and far field measurements. Finally heterodyne mixing due to hot electrons in the 2DEG micro-bolometer has been performed at sub terahertz frequencies and a mixing bandwidth greater than 3GHz has been achieved. This indicates that the characteristic cooling time in our detectors is fast, less than 50ps. Due to the ultra-low heat capacity; these detectors can be used in a heterodyne system with a quantum cascade laser (QCL) as a local oscillator (LO) which typically provides output powers in the micro

Observation of broadband terahertz wave generation from liquid water

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jin, Qi; E, Yiwen; Williams, Kaia; Dai, Jianming; Zhang, X.-C.

2017-08-01

Bulk liquid water is a strong absorber in the terahertz (THz) frequency range, due to which liquid water has historically been sworn off as a source for THz radiation. Here, we experimentally demonstrate the generation of broadband THz waves from liquid water excited by femtosecond laser pulses. Our measurements reveal the critical dependence of the THz field upon the relative position between the water film and the focal point of the laser beam. The THz radiation from liquid water shows distinct characteristics when compared with the THz radiation from air plasmas with single color optical excitation. First, the THz field is maximized with the laser beam of longer pulse durations. In addition, the p-polarized component of the emitted THz waves will be influenced by the polarization of the optical excitation beam. It is also shown that the energy of the THz radiation is linearly dependent on the excitation pulse energy.

Frequency tunable electronic sources working at room temperature in the 1 to 3 THz band

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maestrini, Alain; Mehdi, Imran; Siles, José V.; Lin, Robert; Lee, Choonsup; Chattopadhyay, Goutam; Pearson, John; Siegel, Peter

2012-10-01

Compact, room temperature terahertz sources are much needed in the 1 to 3 THz band for developing multi-pixel heterodyne receivers for astrophysics and planetary science or for building short-range high spatial resolution THz imaging systems able to see through low water content and non metallic materials, smoke or dust for a variety of applications ranging from the inspection of art artifacts to the detection of masked or concealed objects. All solid-sate electronic sources based on a W-band synthesizer followed by a high-power W-band amplifier and a cascade of Schottky diode based THz frequency multipliers are now capable of producing more than 1 mW at 0.9THz, 50 μW at 2 THz and 18 μW at 2.6 THz without the need of any cryogenic system. These sources are frequency agile and have a relative bandwidth of 10 to 15%, limited by the high power W-band amplifiers. The paper will present the latest developments of this technology and its perspective in terms of frequency range, bandwidth and power.

Femtosecond phacoemulsification: the business and the medicine.

PubMed

Uy, Harvey S; Edwards, Keith; Curtis, Nick

2012-01-01

PURPOSE FOR REVIEW: Phacoemulsification is the preferred method for cataract surgery in the developed world. The number of phacoemulsification procedures performed annually is expected to increase as the population ages. Femtosecond cataract surgery offers several surgical advantages over conventional phacoemulsification and has already attained commercial application in some countries. The purpose of this review is to outline the benefits, risks and commercial issues of femtosecond lasers as applied to cataract surgery. Cataract surgeons are adopting femtosecond technology to perform laser capsulotomy, lens fragmentation, clear cornea incisions and limbal relaxing incisions. Femtosecond lasers clearly perform these surgical steps with greater precision and reproducibility. Further benefits such as improved postoperative refractive results and reduced complication rates are being investigated. Commercial issues have invariably arisen such as cost of installation and operation, value proposition and return on investment. Femtosecond cataract surgery is an evolving procedure that can potentially lead to better and safer surgical outcomes. This review presents the currently available scientific evidence and discusses some of the relevant financial issues concerning this technology.

3D printed polarizing grids for IR-THz synchrotron radiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ryu, Meguya; Linklater, Denver; Hart, William; Balčytis, Armandas; Skliutas, Edvinas; Malinauskas, Mangirdas; Appadoo, Dominique; Tan, Yaw-Ren Eugene; Ivanova, Elena P.; Morikawa, Junko; Juodkazis, Saulius

2018-03-01

Grid polarisers 3D-printed out of commercial acrilic resin were tested for the polariser function and showed spectral regions where the dichroic ratio {D}R> 1 and < 1 implying importance of molecular and/or stress induced anisotropy. Metal-coated 3D-printed THz optical elements can find a range of applications in intensity and polarization control of IR-THz beams. The used 3D printing method allows for fabrication of an arbitrary high aspect ratio grid polarisers. Polarization analysis of synchrotron THz radiation was carried out with a standard stretched polyethylene polariser and revealed that the linearly polarized (horizontal) component contributes up to 22% ± 5% to the circular polarized synchrotron emission extracted by a gold-coated mirror with a horizontal slit inserted near the bending magnet edge. Comparison with theoretical predictions shows a qualitative match with dominance of the edge radiation.

Interaction of intense laser pulses with gas for two-color THz generation and remote magnetometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Johnson, Luke A.

The interaction of intense laser pulses with atmospheric gases is studied in two contexts: (i) the generation of broadband terahertz radiation via two-color photoionization currents in nitrogen, and (ii) the generation of an electromagnetic wakefield by the induced magnetization currents of oxygen. (i) A laser pulse propagation simulation code was developed to investigate the radiation patterns from two-color THz generation in nitrogen. Understanding the mechanism for conical, two-color THz furthers the development of broadband THz sources. Two-color photoionization produces a cycle-averaged current driving broadband, conically emitted THz radiation. The THz emission angle is found to be determined by an optical Cherenkov effect, occurring when the front velocity of the ionization induced current source is greater than the THz phase velocity. (ii) A laser pulse propagating in the atmosphere is capable of exciting a magnetic dipole transition in molecular oxygen. The resulting transient current creates a co-propagating electromagnetic field behind the laser pulse, i.e. the wakefield, which has a rotated polarization that depends on the background magnetic field. This effect is analyzed to determine it's suitability for remote atmospheric magnetometry for the detection of underwater and underground objects. In the proposed approach, Kerr self-focusing is used to bring a polarized, high-intensity, laser pulse to focus at a remote detection site where the laser pulse induces a ringing in the oxygen magnetization. The detection signature for underwater and underground objects is the change in the wakefield polarization between different measurement locations. The magnetic dipole transition line that is considered is the b-X transition band of oxygen near 762 nm.

Femtosecond laser-electron x-ray source

DOEpatents

Hartemann, Frederic V.; Baldis, Hector A.; Barty, Chris P.; Gibson, David J.; Rupp, Bernhard

2004-04-20

A femtosecond laser-electron X-ray source. A high-brightness relativistic electron injector produces an electron beam pulse train. A system accelerates the electron beam pulse train. The femtosecond laser-electron X-ray source includes a high intra-cavity power, mode-locked laser and an x-ray optics system.

Laser assisted bioprinting using a femtosecond laser with and without a gold transductive layer: a parametric study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Desrus, H.; Chassagne, B.; Catros, S.; Artiges, C.; Devillard, R.; Petit, S.; Deloison, F.; Fricain, J. C.; Guillemot, F.; Kling, R.

2016-03-01

Experimental results of femtosecond Laser Assisted Bioprinting (LAB) are reported on. Two set-up, used to print different model bioinks and keratinocytes cells line HaCaT, were studied: first one was using a femtosecond laser with low pulse energy and an absorbing gold layer, whereas the second one used high pulse energy enabling the removal of the absorbing layer. Printed drop diameter and resulting height of the bioink jet are then quantified as a function of the LAB parameters such as laser energy, focus spot location or numerical aperture.

A critical review on the carrier dynamics in 2D layered materials investigated using THz spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lu, Junpeng; Liu, Hongwei

2018-01-01

Accurately illustrating the photocarrier dynamics and photoelectrical properties of two dimensional (2D) materials is crucial in the development of 2D material-based optoelectronic devices. Considering this requirement, terahertz (THz) spectroscopy has emerged as a befitting characterization tool to provide deep insights into the carrier dynamics and measurements of the electrical/photoelectrical conductivity of 2D materials. THz spectroscopic measurements would provide information of transient behaviors of carriers with high accuracy in a nondestructive and noncontact manner. In this article, we present a comprehensive review on recent research efforts on investigations of 2D materials of graphene and transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) using THz spectroscopy. A brief introduction of THz time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) and optical pump-THz probe spectroscopy (OPTP) is provided. The characterization of the electron transport of graphene at equilibrium state and transient behavior at non-equilibrium state is reviewed. We also review the characterizations of TMDs including MoS2 and WSe2. Finally, we conclude the recent reports and give a prospect on how THz characterizations would guide the design and optimization of 2D material-based optoelectronic devices.

Femtosecond/picosecond time-resolved fluorescence study of hydrophilic polymer fine particles.

PubMed

Nanjo, Daisuke; Hosoi, Haruko; Fujino, Tatsuya; Tahara, Tahei; Korenaga, Takashi

2007-03-22

Femtosecond/picosecond time-resolved fluorescence study of hydrophilic polymer fine particles (polyacrylamide, PAAm) was reported. Ultrafast fluorescence dynamics of polymer/water solution was monitored using a fluorescent probe molecule (C153). In the femtosecond time-resolved fluorescence measurement at 480 nm, slowly decay components having lifetimes of tau(1) approximately 53 ps and tau(2) approximately 5 ns were observed in addition to rapid fluorescence decay. Picosecond time-resolved fluorescence spectra of C153/PAAm/H2O solution were also measured. In the time-resolved fluorescence spectra of C153/PAAm/H2O, a peak shift from 490 to 515 nm was measured, which can be assigned to the solvation dynamics of polymer fine particles. The fluorescence peak shift was related to the solvation response function and two time constants were determined (tau(3) approximately 50 ps and tau(4) approximately 467 ps). Therefore, the tau(1) component observed in the femtosecond time-resolved fluorescence measurement was assigned to the solvation dynamics that was observed only in the presence of polymer fine particles. Rotational diffusion measurements were also carried out on the basis of the picosecond time-resolved fluorescence spectra. In the C153/PAAm/H2O solution, anisotropy decay having two different time constants was also derived (tau(6) approximately 76 ps and tau(7) approximately 676 ps), indicating the presence of two different microscopic molecular environments around the polymer surface. Using the Stokes-Einstein-Debye (SED) equation, microscopic viscosity around the polymer surface was evaluated. For the area that gave a rotational diffusion time of tau(6) approximately 76 ps, the calculated viscosity is approximately 1.1 cP and for tau(7) approximately 676 ps, it is approximately 10 cP. The calculated viscosity values clearly revealed that there are two different molecular environments around the polyacrylamide fine particles.

Ultrafast spintronics roadmap: from femtosecond spin current pulses to terahertz non-uniform spin dynamics via nano-confined spin transfer torques (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Melnikov, Alexey; Razdolski, Ilya; Alekhin, Alexandr; Ilin, Nikita; Meyburg, Jan; Diesing, Detlef; Roddatis, Vladimir; Rungger, Ivan; Stamenova, Maria; Sanvito, Stefano; Bovensiepen, Uwe

2016-10-01

Further development of spintronics requires miniaturization and reduction of characteristic timescales of spin dynamics combining the nanometer spatial and femtosecond temporal ranges. These demands shift the focus of interest towards the fundamental open question of the interaction of femtosecond spin current (SC) pulses with a ferromagnet (FM). The spatio-temporal properties of the spin transfer torque (STT) exerted by ultrashort SC pulses on the FM open the time domain for studying STT fingerprint on spatially non-uniform magnetization dynamics. Using the sensitivity of magneto-induced second harmonic generation to SC, we develop technique for SC monitoring. With 20 fs resolution, we demonstrate the generation of 250 fs-long SC pulses in Fe/Au/Fe/MgO(001) structures. Their temporal profile indicates (i) nearly-ballistic hot electron transport in Au and (ii) that the pulse duration is primarily determined by the thermalization time of laser-excited hot carriers in Fe. Together with strongly spin-dependent Fe/Au interface transmission calculated for these carriers, this suggests the non-thermal spin-dependent Seebeck effect dominating the generation of ultrashort SC pulses. The analysis of SC transmission/reflection at the Au/Fe interface shows that hot electron spins orthogonal to the Fe magnetization rotate gaining huge parallel (anti-parallel) projection in transmitted (reflected) SC. This is accompanied by a STT-induced perturbation of the magnetization localized at the interface, which excites the inhomogeneous high-frequency spin dynamics in the FM. Time-resolved magneto-optical studies reveal the excitation of several standing spin wave modes in the Fe film with their spectrum extending up to 0.6 THz and indicating the STT spatial confinement to 2 nm.

THz - ToF Optical Layer Analysis (OLA) to determine optical properties of dielectric materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Spranger, Holger; Beckmann, Jörg

2017-02-01

Electromagnetic waves with frequencies between 0.1 and 10 THz are described as THz-radiation (T-ray). The ability to penetrate dielectric materials makes T-rays attractive to reveal discontinuities in polymer and ceramic materials. THz-Time Domain Spectroscopy Systems (THz-TDS) are available on the market today which operates with THz-pulses transmitted and received by optically pumped semiconductor antennas. In THz-TDS the travelling time (ToF) and shape of the pulse is changed if it interacts with the dielectric material and its inherent discontinuities. A tomogram of the object under the test can be reconstructed from time of flight diffraction (ToFD) scans if a synthetic focusing aperture (SAFT) algorithm is applied. The knowledge of the base materials shape and optical properties is essential for a proper reconstruction result. To obtain these properties a model is assumed which describes the device under the test as multilayer structure composed of thin layers with different dielectric characteristics. The Optical Layer Analysis (OLA) is able to fulfill these requirements. A short description why the optical properties are crucial for meaningful SAFT reconstruction results will be given first. Afterwards the OLA will be derived and applied on representative samples to discuss and evaluate its benefits and limits.

Non-Linear Optical Studies of IR Materials with Infrared Femtosecond Laser

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-12-15

Laboratory 3550 Aberdeen Avenue SE Kirtland AFB, NM 87117-5776 AFRL /RDHP 11. SPONSOR/MONITOR’S REPORT NUMBER(S) AFRL -RD-PS-TR-2016-0055 12...6218 1 cy AFRL /RVIL Kirtland AFB, NM 87117-5776 1 cy Official Record Copy AFRL /RDHP/Andreas Schmitt-Sody 1 cy Approved for Public... AFRL -RD-PS- AFRL -RD-PS- TR-2016-0055 TR-2016-0055 NON-LINEAR OPTICAL STUDIES OF IR MATERIALS WITH INFRARED FEMTOSECOND LASER Enam

Intense THz pulses down-regulate genes associated with skin cancer and psoriasis: a new therapeutic avenue?

PubMed Central

Titova, Lyubov V.; Ayesheshim, Ayesheshim K.; Golubov, Andrey; Rodriguez-Juarez, Rocio; Woycicki, Rafal; Hegmann, Frank A.; Kovalchuk, Olga

2013-01-01

Terahertz (THz) radiation lies between the infrared and microwave regions of the electromagnetic spectrum and is non-ionizing. We show that exposure of artificial human skin tissue to intense, picosecond-duration THz pulses affects expression levels of numerous genes associated with non-melanoma skin cancers, psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. Genes affected by intense THz pulses include nearly half of the epidermal differentiation complex (EDC) members. EDC genes, which are mapped to the chromosomal human region 1q21, encode for proteins that partake in epidermal differentiation and are often overexpressed in conditions such as psoriasis and skin cancer. In nearly all the genes differentially expressed by exposure to intense THz pulses, the induced changes in transcription levels are opposite to disease-related changes. The ability of intense THz pulses to cause concerted favorable changes in the expression of multiple genes implicated in inflammatory skin diseases and skin cancers suggests potential therapeutic applications of intense THz pulses. PMID:23917523

Saturated absorption in a rotational molecular transition at 2.5 THz using a quantum cascade laser

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Consolino, L., E-mail: luigi.consolino@ino.it; Campa, A.; Ravaro, M.

2015-01-12

We report on the evidence of saturation effects in a rotational transition of CH{sub 3}OH around 2.5 THz, induced by a free-running continuous-wave quantum cascade laser (QCL). The QCL emission is used for direct-absorption spectroscopy experiments, allowing to study the dependence of the absorption coefficient on gas pressure and laser intensity. A saturation intensity of 25 μW/mm{sup 2}, for a gas pressure of 17 μbar, is measured. This result represents the initial step towards the implementation of a QCL-based high-resolution sub-Doppler THz spectroscopy, which is expected to improve by orders of magnitude the precision of THz spectrometers.

Comprehensive Monte-Carlo simulator for optimization of imaging parameters for high sensitivity detection of skin cancer at the THz

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ney, Michael; Abdulhalim, Ibrahim

2016-03-01

Skin cancer detection at its early stages has been the focus of a large number of experimental and theoretical studies during the past decades. Among these studies two prominent approaches presenting high potential are reflectometric sensing at the THz wavelengths region and polarimetric imaging techniques in the visible wavelengths. While THz radiation contrast agent and source of sensitivity to cancer related tissue alterations was considered to be mainly the elevated water content in the cancerous tissue, the polarimetric approach has been verified to enable cancerous tissue differentiation based on cancer induced structural alterations to the tissue. Combining THz with the polarimetric approach, which is considered in this study, is examined in order to enable higher detection sensitivity than previously pure reflectometric THz measurements. For this, a comprehensive MC simulation of radiative transfer in a complex skin tissue model fitted for the THz domain that considers the skin`s stratified structure, tissue material optical dispersion modeling, surface roughness, scatterers, and substructure organelles has been developed. Additionally, a narrow beam Mueller matrix differential analysis technique is suggested for assessing skin cancer induced changes in the polarimetric image, enabling the tissue model and MC simulation to be utilized for determining the imaging parameters resulting in maximal detection sensitivity.

Femtosecond Electron and Photon Pulses Facility in Thailand

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Rimjaem, S.; Thongbai, C.; Jinamoon, V.

Femtosecond electron and photon pulses facility has been established as SURIYA project at the Fast Neutron Research Facility (FNRF). Femtosecond electron bunches can be generated from a system consisting of an RF gun with a thermionic cathode, an alpha magnet as an magnetic bunch compressor, and a linear accelerator as a post acceleration section. Femtosecond electron pulses can be used directly or used as a source to produce equally short electromagnetic (EM) radiation pulses via certain kind of radiation production processes. At SURIYA project, we are interested especially in production of radiation in Far-infrared (FIR) regime. At these wavelengths, themore » radiation from femtosecond electron pulses is emitted coherently resulting in high intensity radiation. Overview of the facility, the generation of femtosecond electron bunches, the theoretical background of coherent transition radiation and the recent experimental results will be presented and discussed in this paper.« less

THz imaging of majolica tiles and biological attached marble fragments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Catapano, Ilaria; Soldovieri, Francesco

2016-04-01

Devices exploiting waves in the frequency range from 0.1 THz to 10 THz (corresponding to a free-space wavelength ranging from 30 μm to 3 mm) deserve attention as diagnostic technologies for cultural heritage. THz waves are, indeed, non-ionizing radiations capable of penetrating into non-metallic materials, which are opaque to both visible and infrared waves, without implying long term risks to the molecular stability of the exposed objects and humans. Moreover, THz surveys involve low poewr probing waves, are performed without contact with the object and, thanks to the recent developments, which have allowed the commercialization of compact, flexible and portable systems, maybe performed in loco (i.e. in the place where the artworks are usually located). On the other hand, THz devices can be considered as the youngest among the sensing and imaging electromagnetic techniques and their actual potentialities in terms of characterization of artworks is an ongoing research activity. As a contribution within this context, we have performed time of flight THz imaging [1,2] on ceramic and marble objects. In particular, we surveyed majolica tiles produced by Neapolitan ceramists in the 18th and 19th centuries with the aim to gather information on their structure, constructive technique and conservation state. Moreover, we investigated a Marmo di Candoglia fragment in order to characterize the biological attach affecting it. All the surveys were carried out by using the Fiber-Coupled Terahertz Time Domain System (FICO) developed by Z-Omega and available at the Institute of Electromagnetic Sensing of the Environment (IREA). This system is equipped with fiber optic coupled transmitting and receiving probes and with an automatic positioning system enabling to scan a 150 mm x 150 mm area under a reflection measurement configuration. Based on the obtained results we can state that the use of THz waves allows: - the reconstruction of the object topography; - the geometrical

Water at protein surfaces studied with femtosecond nonlinear spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bakker, Huib J.

We report on an investigation of the structure and dynamics of water molecules near protein surfaces with femtosecond nonlinear spectroscopic techniques. We measured the reorientation dynamics of water molecules near the surface of several globular protein surfaces, using polarization-resolved femtosecond infrared spectroscopy. We found that water molecules near the protein surface have a much slower reorientation than water molecules in bulk liquid water. The number of slow water molecules scales scales with the size of the hydrophobic surface of the protein. When we denature the proteins by adding an increasing amount of urea to the protein solution, we observe that the water-exposed surface increases by 50% before the secondary structure of the proteins changes. This finding indicates that protein unfolding starts with the protein structure becoming less tight, thereby allowing water to enter. With surface vibrational sum frequency generation (VSFG) spectroscopy, we studied the structure of water at the surface of antifreeze protein III. The measured VSFG spectra showed the presence of ice-like water layers at the ice-binding site of the protein in aqueous solution, at temperatures well above the freezing point. This ordered ice-like hydration layers at the protein surface likely plays an important role in the specific recognition and binding of anti-freeze protein III to nascent ice crystallites, and thus in its anti-freeze mechanism. This research is supported by the ''Nederlandse organisatie voor Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek (NWO).

Investigation of graphene-integrated tunable metamaterials in THz regime

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Demir, S. Mahircan; Yüksek, Yahya; Sabah, Cumali

2018-05-01

A metallic fishnet metamaterial structure in sub-THz region is presented. The proposed structure is based on hexagonal resonators. Simulations have been performed by a 3D full-wave electromagnetic simulator and a negative refractive index has been observed at the frequency range between 0.55 and 0.70 THz with the help of the graphene layer. In order to observe the effect of the graphene layer, the metamaterial structure has been simulated and examined before and after graphene integration. Significant modification in the propagation properties has been observed after the graphene integration. Change in S-parameters with the size variation of hexagonal resonators and alteration in graphene thickness are also presented as a parametric study to show the tunability of the structure. Suitability of the metamaterial for sensor applications has been investigated. The proposed metamaterial structure is promising to be effectively used for tunability and sensor applications.

Fra Angelico's painting technique revealed by terahertz time-domain imaging (THz-TDI)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koch Dandolo, Corinna Ludovica; Picollo, Marcello; Cucci, Costanza; Jepsen, Peter Uhd

2016-10-01

We have investigated with terahertz time-domain imaging (THz-TDI) the well-known Lamentation over the dead Christ panel painting (San Marco Museum, Florence) painted by Fra Giovanni Angelico within 1436 and 1441. The investigation provided a better understanding of the construction and gilding technique used by the eminent artist, as well as the plastering technique used during the nineteenth-century restoration intervention. The evidence obtained from THz-TDI scans was correlated with the available documentation on the preservation history of the art piece. Erosion and damages documented for the wooden support, especially in the lower margin, found confirmation in the THz-TD images.

Independent polarization and multi-band THz absorber base on Jerusalem cross

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arezoomand, Afsaneh Saee; Zarrabi, Ferdows B.; Heydari, Samaneh; Gandji, Navid P.

2015-10-01

In this paper, we present the design and simulation of a single and multi-band perfect metamaterial absorber (MA) in the THz region base on Jerusalem cross (JC) and metamaterial load in unit cells. The structures consist of dual metallic layers for allowing near-perfect absorption with absorption peak of more than 99%. In this novel design, four-different shape of Jerusalem cross is presented and by adding L, U and W shape loaded to first structure, we tried to achieve a dual-band absorber. In addition, by good implementation of these loaded, we are able to control the absorption resonance at second resonance at 0.9, 0.7 and 0.85 THz respectively. In the other hand, we achieved a semi stable designing at first resonance between 0.53 and 0.58 THz. The proposed absorber has broadband polarization angle. The surface current modeled and proved the broadband polarization angle at prototype MA. The LC resonance of the metamaterial for Jerusalem cross and modified structures are extracting from equivalent circuit. As a result, proposed MA is useful for THz medical imaging and communication systems and the dual-band absorber has applications in many scientific and technological areas.

Role of misalignment-induced angular chirp in the electro-optic detection of THz waves.

PubMed

Walsh, D A; Cliffe, M J; Pan, R; Snedden, E W; Graham, D M; Gillespie, W A; Jamison, S P

2014-05-19

A general description of electro-optic detection including non-collinear phase matching and finite transverse beam profiles is presented. It is shown theoretically and experimentally that non-collinear phase matching in ZnTe (and similar materials) produces an angular chirp in the χ(2)-generated optical signal. Due to this, in non-collinear THz and probe arrangements such as single-shot THz measurements or through accidental misalignment, measurement of an undistorted THz signal is critically dependent on having sufficient angular acceptance in the optical probe path. The associated spatial walk-off can also preclude the phase retardation approximation used in THz-TDS. The rate of misalignment-induced chirping in commonly used ZnTe and GaP schemes is tabulated, allowing ready analysis of a detection system.

Femtosecond parabolic pulse shaping in normally dispersive optical fibers.

PubMed

Sukhoivanov, Igor A; Iakushev, Sergii O; Shulika, Oleksiy V; Díez, Antonio; Andrés, Miguel

2013-07-29

Formation of parabolic pulses at femtosecond time scale by means of passive nonlinear reshaping in normally dispersive optical fibers is analyzed. Two approaches are examined and compared: the parabolic waveform formation in transient propagation regime and parabolic waveform formation in the steady-state propagation regime. It is found that both approaches could produce parabolic pulses as short as few hundred femtoseconds applying commercially available fibers, specially designed all-normal dispersion photonic crystal fiber and modern femtosecond lasers for pumping. The ranges of parameters providing parabolic pulse formation at the femtosecond time scale are found depending on the initial pulse duration, chirp and energy. Applicability of different fibers for femtosecond pulse shaping is analyzed. Recommendation for shortest parabolic pulse formation is made based on the analysis presented.

Simulation and development of novel slow-wave structures for miniaturized THz-band vacuum-tube devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Benedik, Andrey I.; Karetnikova, Tatiana A.; Torgashov, Roman A.; Terentyuk, Artem G.; Rozhnev, Andrey G.; Torgashov, Gennadiy V.; Ryskin, Nikita M.

2018-04-01

Microfabricated vacuum-tube millimeter- and THz-band sources are of great interest for numerous applications such as communications, radar, sensors, imaging, etc. Recently, miniaturized sheet-beam traveling-wave tubes for sub-THz and THz operation have attracted a considerable interest. In this paper, we present the results of modeling and development of slow-wave structures (SWS) for medium power (10-100 W) traveling-wave tube (TWT) amplifiers and backwardwave oscillators (BWO) in near-THz frequency band. Different types of SWSs are considered, such as double-vane SWS for TWT with a sheet electron beam, a folded-waveguide SWS, and novel planar SWSs on dielectric substrates.

Mechanical detection of electron spin resonance beyond 1 THz

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Takahashi, Hideyuki; Ohmichi, Eiji; Ohta, Hitoshi

2015-11-02

We report the cantilever detection of electron spin resonance (ESR) in the terahertz (THz) region. This technique mechanically detects ESR as a change in magnetic torque that acts on the cantilever. The ESR absorption of a tiny single crystal of Co Tutton salt, Co(NH{sub 4}){sub 2}(SO{sub 4}){sub 2}⋅6H{sub 2}O, was observed in frequencies of up to 1.1 THz using a backward travelling wave oscillator as a THz-wave source. This is the highest frequency of mechanical detection of ESR till date. The spectral resolution was evaluated with the ratio of the peak separation to the sum of the half-width at halfmore » maximum of two absorption peaks. The highest resolution value of 8.59 ± 0.53 was achieved at 685 GHz, while 2.47 ± 0.01 at 80 GHz. This technique will not only broaden the scope of ESR spectroscopy application but also lead to high-spectral-resolution ESR imaging.« less

Experimental Validation of Plasma Metasurfaces as Tunable THz Reflectors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Colon Quinones, Roberto; Underwood, Thomas; Cappelli, Mark

2016-10-01

Measurements are presented which validate the use of plasma metasurfaces (PMs) as potential tunable THz reflectors. The PM considered here is an n x n array of laser produced plasma kernels generated by focusing the fundamental output from a 2 J/p Q-switched Nd:YAG laser through a multi-lens array (MLA) and into a gas of varying pressure. An M Squared Firefly-THz laser is used to generate a collimated pulse of THz light, which is then directed to the PM at varying angles of incidence. The reflected energy is measured using a Gentec-EO SDX-1187 joulemeter probe to characterize the surface impedance or reflectivity. In this presentation, we will compare the measured reflectance to values obtained from theoretical predictions and 3D finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) simulations. Work supported by the Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR). R. Colon Quinones and T. Underwood acknowledge the support of the Department of Defense (DoD) through the National Defense Science & Engineering Graduate Fellowship (NDSEG) Program.

Fano resonance engineering in mirror-symmetry-broken THz metamaterials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Xuefeng; Bian, Xinya; Milne, William I.; Chu, Daping

2016-04-01

We introduce a comprehensive approach to the design of mirror-symmetry-broken terahertz (THz) metamaterials and present both the simulation and experimental results which show the desired asymmetric Fano resonances and electromagnetically induced transparency-like windows. With a full-wave simulation, we find these asymmetry-induced resonance modes possess extremely high quality factors and they broaden with an increase in the structure asymmetry. This phenomenon arises from the destructive interference of a super-radiative bright mode and a sub-radiative dark mode which cannot be excited directly. Surface current and electric field distributions are analyzed to explain the emergence of these Fano resonances. An intuitive mechanical coupled oscillator model is derived to explain the unique line-shape of such Fano resonances. Moreover, large resonant frequency tuning (50 GHz) of Fano resonance has been demonstrated by temperature-induced phase change in liquid crystals. We believe that the Fano resonance in THz metamaterials may serve as a strong building block for passive or active THz elements with potential applications for future detection and sensing systems and devices.

TOPICAL REVIEW: Semiconductors for terahertz photonics applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krotkus, Arūnas

2010-07-01

Generation and measurement of ultrashort, subpicosecond pulses of electromagnetic radiation with their characteristic Fourier spectra that reach far into terahertz (THz) frequency range has recently become a versatile tool of far-infrared spectroscopy and imaging. This technique, THz time-domain spectroscopy, in addition to a femtosecond pulse laser, requires semiconductor components manufactured from materials with a short photoexcited carrier lifetime, high carrier mobility and large dark resistivity. Here we will review the most important developments in the field of investigation of such materials. The main characteristics of low-temperature-grown or ion-implanted GaAs and semiconducting compounds sensitive in the wavelength ranges around 1 µm and 1.5 µm will be surveyed. The second part of the paper is devoted to the effect of surface emission of THz transients from semiconductors illuminated by femtosecond laser pulses. The main physical mechanisms leading to this emission as well as their manifestation in various crystals will be described.

Monte Carlo Simulation of THz Multipliers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

East, J.; Blakey, P.

1997-01-01

Schottky Barrier diode frequency multipliers are critical components in submillimeter and Thz space based earth observation systems. As the operating frequency of these multipliers has increased, the agreement between design predictions and experimental results has become poorer. The multiplier design is usually based on a nonlinear model using a form of harmonic balance and a model for the Schottky barrier diode. Conventional voltage dependent lumped element models do a poor job of predicting THz frequency performance. This paper will describe a large signal Monte Carlo simulation of Schottky barrier multipliers. The simulation is a time dependent particle field Monte Carlo simulation with ohmic and Schottky barrier boundary conditions included that has been combined with a fixed point solution for the nonlinear circuit interaction. The results in the paper will point out some important time constants in varactor operation and will describe the effects of current saturation and nonlinear resistances on multiplier operation.

Evaluation of SiO{sub 2}@CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nano-hollow spheres through THz pulses

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Rakshit, Rupali, E-mail: rupali12@bose.res.in; Pal, Monalisa; Chaudhuri, Arka

2016-05-06

We have synthesized cobalt ferrite (CFO) nanoparticles (NPs) of diameter 100 nm and nano-hollow spheres (NHSs) of diameter 100, 160, 250, and 350 nm by a facile one step template free solvothermal technique and carried out SiO{sub 2} coating on their surface following Stöber method. The phase and morphology of the nanostructures were confirmed by X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscope. The magnetic measurements were carried out by vibrating sample magnetometer in order to study the influence of SiO{sub 2} coating on the magnetic properties of bare CFO nanostructures. Furthermore, we have applied THz time domain spectroscopy to investigate the THz absorptionmore » property of these nanostructures in the frequency range 1.0–2.5 THz. Detailed morphology and size dependent THz absorption study unfolds that the absorption property of these nanostructures sensitively carries the unique signature of its dielectric property.« less

[Extracting THz absorption coefficient spectrum based on accurate determination of sample thickness].

PubMed

Li, Zhi; Zhang, Zhao-hui; Zhao, Xiao-yan; Su, Hai-xia; Yan, Fang

2012-04-01

Extracting absorption spectrum in THz band is one of the important aspects in THz applications. Sample's absorption coefficient has a complex nonlinear relationship with its thickness. However, as it is not convenient to measure the thickness directly, absorption spectrum is usually determined incorrectly. Based on the method proposed by Duvillaret which was used to precisely determine the thickness of LiNbO3, the approach to measuring the absorption coefficient spectra of glutamine and histidine in frequency range from 0.3 to 2.6 THz(1 THz = 10(12) Hz) was improved in this paper. In order to validate the correctness of this absorption spectrum, we designed a series of experiments to compare the linearity of absorption coefficient belonging to one kind amino acid in different concentrations. The results indicate that as agreed by Lambert-Beer's Law, absorption coefficient spectrum of amino acid from the improved algorithm performs better linearity with its concentration than that from the common algorithm, which can be the basis of quantitative analysis in further researches.

Stimulated polariton scattering in an intracavity RbTiOPO₄ crystal generating frequency-tunable THz output.

PubMed

Ortega, Tiago A; Pask, Helen M; Spence, David J; Lee, Andrew J

2016-05-16

A high power, frequency-tunable THz source based on intracavity stimulated polariton scattering (SPS) in RbTiOPO₄ (RTP) is demonstrated for the first time. Frequency tunable THz output was obtained from 3.10 to 4.15 THz, with a gap at 3.17 to 3.49 THz, arising from the 104 cm^-1 A₁ mode in RTP. A maximum average output power of 16.2 µW was detected at 3.8 THz. This is the highest average output power ever reported for an intracavity polariton laser.

Effects of femtosecond laser radiation on the skin

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rogov, P. Yu; Bespalov, V. G.

2016-08-01

A mathematical model of linear and nonlinear processes is presented occurring under the influence of femtosecond laser radiation on the skin. There was held an analysis and the numerical solution of an equation system describing the dynamics of the electron and phonon subsystems were received. The results can be used to determine the maximum permissible levels of energy generated by femtosecond laser systems and the establishment of Russian laser safety standards for femtosecond laser systems.

Terahertz wave transmission in flexible polystyrene-lined hollow metallic waveguides for the 2.5-5 THz band.

PubMed

Navarro-Cía, Miguel; Vitiello, Miriam S; Bledt, Carlos M; Melzer, Jeffrey E; Harrington, James A; Mitrofanov, Oleg

2013-10-07

A low-loss and low-dispersive optical-fiber-like hybrid HE₁₁ mode is developed within a wide band in metallic hollow waveguides if their inner walls are coated with a thin dielectric layer. We investigate terahertz (THz) transmission losses from 0.5 to 5.5 THz and bending losses at 2.85 THz in a polystyrene-lined silver waveguides with core diameters small enough (1 mm) to minimize the number of undesired modes and to make the waveguide flexible, while keeping the transmission loss of the HE₁₁ mode low. The experimentally measured loss is below 10 dB/m for 2 < ν < 2.85 THz (~4-4.5 dB/m at 2.85 THz) and it is estimated to be below 3 dB/m for 3 < ν < 5 THz according to the numerical calculations. At ~1.25 THz, the waveguide shows an absorption peak of ~75 dB/m related to the transition between the TM₁₁-like mode and the HE₁₁ mode. Numerical modeling reproduces the measured absorption spectrum but underestimates the losses at the absorption peak, suggesting imperfections in the waveguide walls and that the losses can be reduced further.

Frontiers in Chemical Physics

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bowlan, Pamela Renee

2016-05-02

These are slides dealing with frontiers in chemical physics. The following topics are covered: Time resolving chemistry with ultrashort pulses in the 0.1-40 THz spectral range; Example: Mid-infrared absorption spectrum of the intermediate state CH 2OO; Tracking reaction dynamics through changes in the spectra; Single-shot measurement of the mid-IR absorption dynamics; Applying 2D coherent mid-IR spectroscopy to learn more about transition states; Time resolving chemical reactions at a catalysis using mid-IR and THz pulses; Studying topological insulators requires a surface sensitive probe; Nonlinear phonon dynamics in Bi 2Se 3; THz-pump, SHG-probe as a surface sensitive coherent 2D spectroscopy; Nanometer andmore » femtosecond spatiotemporal resolution mid-IR spectroscopy; Coherent two-dimensional THz/mid-IR spectroscopy with 10nm spatial resolution; Pervoskite oxides as catalysts; Functionalized graphene for catalysis; Single-shot spatiotemporal measurements; Spatiotemporal pulse measurement; Intense, broad-band THz/mid-IR generation with organic crystals.« less

Scaling submillimeter single-cycle transients toward megavolts per centimeter field strength via optical rectification in the organic crystal OH1.

PubMed

Ruchert, Clemens; Vicario, Carlo; Hauri, Christoph P

2012-03-01

We present the generation of high-power single-cycle terahertz (THz) pulses in the organic salt crystal 2-[3-(4-hydroxystyryl)-5.5-dimethylcyclohex-2-enylidene]malononitrile or OH1. Broadband THz radiation with a central frequency of 1.5 THz (λ(c)=200 μm) and high electric field strength of 440 kV/cm is produced by optical rectification driven by the signal of a powerful femtosecond optical parametric amplifier. A 1.5% pump to THz energy conversion efficiency is reported, and pulse energy stability better than 1% RMS is achieved. An approach toward the realization of higher field strength is discussed. © 2012 Optical Society of America

Innovative monolithic detector for tri-spectral (THz, IR, Vis) imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pocas, S.; Perenzoni, M.; Massari, N.; Simoens, F.; Meilhan, J.; Rabaud, W.; Martin, S.; Delplanque, B.; Imperinetti, P.; Goudon, V.; Vialle, C.; Arnaud, A.

2012-10-01

Fusion of multispectral images has been explored for many years for security and used in a number of commercial products. CEA-Leti and FBK have developed an innovative sensor technology that gathers monolithically on a unique focal plane arrays, pixels sensitive to radiation in three spectral ranges that are terahertz (THz), infrared (IR) and visible. This technology benefits of many assets for volume market: compactness, full CMOS compatibility on 200mm wafers, advanced functions of the CMOS read-out integrated circuit (ROIC), and operation at room temperature. The ROIC houses visible APS diodes while IR and THz detections are carried out by microbolometers collectively processed above the CMOS substrate. Standard IR bolometric microbridges (160x160 pixels) are surrounding antenna-coupled bolometers (32X32 pixels) built on a resonant cavity customized to THz sensing. This paper presents the different technological challenges achieved in this development and first electrical and sensitivity experimental tests.

Effect of Temperature and Hydration Level on Purple Membrane Dynamics Studied Using Broadband Dielectric Spectroscopy from Sub-GHz to THz Regions.

PubMed

Yamamoto, Naoki; Ito, Shota; Nakanishi, Masahiro; Chatani, Eri; Inoue, Keiichi; Kandori, Hideki; Tominaga, Keisuke

2018-02-01

To investigate the effects of temperature and hydration on the dynamics of purple membrane (PM), we measured the broadband complex dielectric spectra from 0.5 GHz to 2.3 THz using a vector network analyzer and terahertz time-domain spectroscopy from 233 to 293 K. In the lower temperature region down to 83 K, the complex dielectric spectra in the THz region were also obtained. The complex dielectric spectra were analyzed through curve fitting using several model functions. We found that the hydrated states of one relaxational mode, which was assigned as the coupled motion of water molecules with the PM surface, began to overlap with the THz region at approximately 230 K. On the other hand, the relaxational mode was not observed for the dehydrated state. On the basis of this result, we conclude that the protein-dynamical-transition-like behavior in the THz region is due to the onset of the overlap of the relaxational mode with the THz region. Temperature hysteresis was observed in the dielectric spectrum at 263 K when the hydration level was high. It is suggested that the hydration water behaves similarly to supercooled liquid at that temperature. The third hydration layer may be partly formed to observe such a phenomenon. We also found that the relaxation time is slower than that of a globular protein, lysozyme, and the microscopic environment in the vicinity of the PM surface is suggested to be more heterogeneous than lysozyme. It is proposed that the spectral overlap of the relaxational mode and the low-frequency vibrational mode is necessary for the large conformational change of protein.

Wavelet-domain de-noising technique for THz pulsed spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chernomyrdin, Nikita V.; Zaytsev, Kirill I.; Gavdush, Arsenii A.; Fokina, Irina N.; Karasik, Valeriy E.; Reshetov, Igor V.; Kudrin, Konstantin G.; Nosov, Pavel A.; Yurchenko, Stanislav O.

2014-09-01

De-noising of terahertz (THz) pulsed spectroscopy (TPS) data is an essential problem, since a noise in the TPS system data prevents correct reconstruction of the sample spectral dielectric properties and to perform the sample internal structure studying. There are certain regions in TPS signal Fourier spectrum, where Fourier-domain signal-to-noise ratio is relatively small. Effective de-noising might potentially expand the range of spectrometer spectral sensitivity and reduce the time of waveform registration, which is an essential problem for biomedical applications of TPS. In this work, it is shown how the recent progress in signal processing in wavelet-domain could be used for TPS waveforms de-noising. It demonstrates the ability to perform effective de-noising of TPS data using the algorithm of the Fast Wavelet Transform (FWT). The results of the optimal wavelet basis selection and wavelet-domain thresholding technique selection are reported. Developed technique is implemented for reconstruction of in vivo healthy and deseased skin samplesspectral characteristics at THz frequency range.

Cryocooled terahertz photoconductive detector system with background-limited performance in 1.5-4 THz frequency range.

PubMed

Aoki, Makoto; Hiromoto, Norihisa

2015-10-01

We describe a 4-K-cryocooled dual-band terahertz (THz) photoconductive detector system with background-limited performance. The detector system comprises two THz photoconductive detectors covering a response in a wide frequency range from 1.5 to 4 THz, low noise amplifiers, optical low-pass filters to eliminate input radiation of higher frequencies, and a mechanical 4 K Gifford-McMahon refrigerator that provides practical and convenient operation without a liquid He container. The electrical and optical performances of the THz detector system were evaluated at a detector temperature of 4 K under 300 K background radiation. We proved that the detector system can achieve background-limited noise-equivalent-power on the order of 10(-14) W/Hz(1/2) in the frequency range from 1.5 to 4 THz even if the vibration noise of the mechanical refrigerator is present.

THz near-field imaging of biological tissues employing synchrotron radiation (Invited Paper)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schade, Ulrich; Holldack, Karsten; Martin, Michael C.; Fried, Daniel

2005-04-01

Terahertz scanning near-field infrared microscopy (SNIM) below 1 THz is demonstrated. The near-field technique benefits from the broadband and highly brilliant coherent synchrotron radiation (CSR) from an electron storage ring and from a detection method based on locking on to the intrinsic time structure of the synchrotron radiation. The scanning microscope utilizes conical waveguides as near-field probes with apertures smaller than the wavelength. Different cone approaches have been investigated to obtain maximum transmittance. Together with a Martin-Puplett spectrometer the set-up enables spectroscopic mapping of the transmittance of samples well below the diffraction limit. Spatial resolution down to about λ/40 at 2 wavenumbers (0.06 THz) is derived from the transmittance spectra of the near-field probes. The potential of the technique is exemplified by imaging biological samples. Strongly absorbing living leaves have been imaged in transmittance with a spatial resolution of 130 μm at about 12 wavenumbers (0.36 THz). The THz near-field images reveal distinct structural differences of leaves from different plants investigated. The technique presented also allows spectral imaging of bulky organic tissues. Human teeth samples of various thicknesses have been imaged between 2 and 20 wavenumbers (between 0.06 and 0.6 THz). Regions of enamel and dentin within tooth samples are spatially and spectrally resolved, and buried caries lesions are imaged through both the outer enamel and into the underlying dentin.

Performance modeling of terahertz (THz) and millimeter waves (mmW) pupil plane imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mohammadian, Nafiseh; Furxhi, Orges; Zhang, Lei; Offermans, Peter; Ghazi, Galia; Driggers, Ronald

2018-05-01

Terahertz- (THz) and millimeter-wave sensors are becoming more important in industrial, security, medical, and defense applications. A major problem in these sensing areas is the resolution, sensitivity, and visual acuity of the imaging systems. There are different fundamental parameters in designing a system that have significant effects on the imaging performance. The performance of THz systems can be discussed in terms of two characteristics: sensitivity and spatial resolution. New approaches for design and manufacturing of THz imagers are a vital basis for developing future applications. Photonics solutions have been at the technological forefront in THz band applications. A single scan antenna does not provide reasonable resolution, sensitivity, and speed. An effective approach to imaging is placing a high-performance antenna in a two-dimensional antenna array to achieve higher radiation efficiency and higher resolution in the imaging systems. Here, we present the performance modeling of a pupil plane imaging system to find the resolution and sensitivity efficiency of the imaging system.

Support for High Power Laser Ablation 2010

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-04-16

Johannes-Kepler University, Linz, Austria could not attend. Ultimately, we lost half of our European attendance from this cause. The organizer put...attosecond level control of the half -cycle THz polarization and investigate the coupling of femtosecond-laser-generated plasmas through THz emission...manipulation of trapped particles, by changing the polarization and by changing the distance between the focal planes of two optical vortex beams

Broadband terahertz generation of metamaterials

DOEpatents

Luo, Liang; Wang, Jigang; Koschny, Thomas; Wegener, Martin; Soukoulis, Costas M.

2017-06-20

Provided are systems and methods to generate single-cycle THz pulses from a few tens of nanometers thin layer of split ring resonators (SRRs) via optical rectification of femtosecond laser pulses. The emitted THz radiation, with a spectrum ranging from about 0.1 to 4 THz, arises exclusively from pumping the magnetic-dipole resonance of SRRs around 200 THz. This resonant enhancement, together with pump polarization dependence and power scaling of the THz emission, underpins the nonlinearity from optically induced circulating currents in SRRs, with a huge effective nonlinear susceptibility of 0.8.times.10.sup.-16 m.sup.2/V that far exceeds surface nonlinearities of both thin films and bulk organic/inorganic crystals and sheet nonlinearities of non-centrosymmetric materials such as ZnTe.

Evidence of femtosecond-laser pulse induced cell membrane nanosurgery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Katchinskiy, Nir; Godbout, Roseline; Elezzabi, Abdulhakem Y.

2017-02-01

The mechanism of femtosecond laser nanosurgical attachment is investigated in the following article. Using sub-10 femtosecond laser pulses with 800 nm central wavelength were used to attach retinoblastoma cells. During the attachment process the cell membrane phospholipid bilayers hemifuse into one shared phospholipid bilayer, at the location of attachment. Transmission electron microscopy was used in order to verify the above hypothesis. Based on the imaging results, it was concluded that the two cell membrane coalesce to form one single shared membrane. The technique of cell-cell attachment via femtosecond laser pulses could potentially serve as a platform for precise cell membrane manipulation. Manipulation of the cellular membrane is valuable for studying diseases such as cancer; where the expression level of plasma proteins on the cell membrane is altered.

Real-time computer treatment of THz passive device images with the high image quality

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Trofimov, Vyacheslav A.; Trofimov, Vladislav V.

2012-06-01

We demonstrate real-time computer code improving significantly the quality of images captured by the passive THz imaging system. The code is not only designed for a THz passive device: it can be applied to any kind of such devices and active THz imaging systems as well. We applied our code for computer processing of images captured by four passive THz imaging devices manufactured by different companies. It should be stressed that computer processing of images produced by different companies requires using the different spatial filters usually. The performance of current version of the computer code is greater than one image per second for a THz image having more than 5000 pixels and 24 bit number representation. Processing of THz single image produces about 20 images simultaneously corresponding to various spatial filters. The computer code allows increasing the number of pixels for processed images without noticeable reduction of image quality. The performance of the computer code can be increased many times using parallel algorithms for processing the image. We develop original spatial filters which allow one to see objects with sizes less than 2 cm. The imagery is produced by passive THz imaging devices which captured the images of objects hidden under opaque clothes. For images with high noise we develop an approach which results in suppression of the noise after using the computer processing and we obtain the good quality image. With the aim of illustrating the efficiency of the developed approach we demonstrate the detection of the liquid explosive, ordinary explosive, knife, pistol, metal plate, CD, ceramics, chocolate and other objects hidden under opaque clothes. The results demonstrate the high efficiency of our approach for the detection of hidden objects and they are a very promising solution for the security problem.

Femtosecond laser machining for characterization of local mechanical properties of biomaterials: a case study on wood

PubMed Central

Jakob, Severin; Pfeifenberger, Manuel J.; Hohenwarter, Anton; Pippan, Reinhard

2017-01-01

Abstract The standard preparation technique for micro-sized samples is focused ion beam milling, most frequently using Ga+ ions. The main drawbacks are the required processing time and the possibility and risks of ion implantation. In contrast, ultrashort pulsed laser ablation can process any type of material with ideally negligible damage to the surrounding volume and provides 4 to 6 orders of magnitude higher ablation rates than the ion beam technique. In this work, a femtosecond laser was used to prepare wood samples from spruce for mechanical testing at the micrometre level. After optimization of the different laser parameters, tensile and compressive specimens were produced from microtomed radial-tangential and longitudinal-tangential sections. Additionally, laser-processed samples were exposed to an electron beam prior to testing to study possible beam damage. The specimens originating from these different preparation conditions were mechanically tested. Advantages and limitations of the femtosecond laser preparation technique and the deformation and fracture behaviour of the samples are discussed. The results prove that femtosecond laser processing is a fast and precise preparation technique, which enables the fabrication of pristine biological samples with dimensions at the microscale. PMID:28970867

Femtosecond laser machining for characterization of local mechanical properties of biomaterials: a case study on wood

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jakob, Severin; Pfeifenberger, Manuel J.; Hohenwarter, Anton; Pippan, Reinhard

2017-12-01

The standard preparation technique for micro-sized samples is focused ion beam milling, most frequently using Ga+ ions. The main drawbacks are the required processing time and the possibility and risks of ion implantation. In contrast, ultrashort pulsed laser ablation can process any type of material with ideally negligible damage to the surrounding volume and provides 4 to 6 orders of magnitude higher ablation rates than the ion beam technique. In this work, a femtosecond laser was used to prepare wood samples from spruce for mechanical testing at the micrometre level. After optimization of the different laser parameters, tensile and compressive specimens were produced from microtomed radial-tangential and longitudinal-tangential sections. Additionally, laser-processed samples were exposed to an electron beam prior to testing to study possible beam damage. The specimens originating from these different preparation conditions were mechanically tested. Advantages and limitations of the femtosecond laser preparation technique and the deformation and fracture behaviour of the samples are discussed. The results prove that femtosecond laser processing is a fast and precise preparation technique, which enables the fabrication of pristine biological samples with dimensions at the microscale.

Twisting Anderson pseudospins with light: Quench dynamics in THz-pumped BCS superconductors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chou, Yang-Zhi; Liao, Yunxiang; Foster, Matthew

We study the preparation and the detection of coherent far-from-equilibrium BCS superconductor dynamics in THz pump-probe experiments. In a recent experiment, an intense monocycle THz pulse with center frequency ω = Δ was injected into a superconductor with BCS gap Δ the post-pump evolution was detected via the optical conductivity. It was argued that nonlinear coupling of the pump to the Anderson pseudospins of the superconductor induces coherent dynamics of the Higgs mode Δ (t) . We validate this picture in a 2D BCS model with a combination of exact numerics and the Lax reduction, and we compute the dynamical phase diagram. The main effect of the pump is to scramble the orientations of Anderson pseudospins along the Fermi surface by twisting them in the xy-plane. We show that more intense pulses can induce a far-from-equilibrium gapless phase (phase I), originally predicted in the context of interaction quenches. We show that the THz pump can reach phase I at much lower energy densities than an interaction quench, and we demonstrate that Lax reduction provides a quantitative tool for computing coherent BCS dynamics. We also compute the optical conductivity for the states discussed here.

Femtosecond imaging of nonlinear acoustics in gold.

PubMed

Pezeril, Thomas; Klieber, Christoph; Shalagatskyi, Viktor; Vaudel, Gwenaelle; Temnov, Vasily; Schmidt, Oliver G; Makarov, Denys

2014-02-24

We have developed a high-sensitivity, low-noise femtosecond imaging technique based on pump-probe time-resolved measurements with a standard CCD camera. The approach used in the experiment is based on lock-in acquisitions of images generated by a femtosecond laser probe synchronized to modulation of a femtosecond laser pump at the same rate. This technique allows time-resolved imaging of laser-excited phenomena with femtosecond time resolution. We illustrate the technique by time-resolved imaging of the nonlinear reshaping of a laser-excited picosecond acoustic pulse after propagation through a thin gold layer. Image analysis reveals the direct 2D visualization of the nonlinear acoustic propagation of the picosecond acoustic pulse. Many ultrafast pump-probe investigations can profit from this technique because of the wealth of information it provides over a typical single diode and lock-in amplifier setup, for example it can be used to image ultrasonic echoes in biological samples.

Femtosecond studies of protein-ligand hydrophobic binding and dynamics: human serum albumin.

PubMed

Zhong, D; Douhal, A; Zewail, A H

2000-12-19

In this contribution, we report studies of the nature of the dynamics and hydrophobic binding in protein-ligand complexes of human serum albumin with 2-(2'-hydroxyphenyl)-4-methyloxazole. With femtosecond time resolution, we examined the orientational motion of the ligand, its intrinsic nuclear motions, and the lifetime changes in the hydrophobic phase. For comparisons, with similar but chemical nanocavities, we also studied the same ligand in micelles and cyclodextrins. The hydrophobic interactions in the binding crevice are much stronger than those observed in cyclodextrins and micelles. The confined geometry restrains the nonradiative decay and significantly lengthens the excited-state lifetime. The observed dynamics over the femtosecond-to-nanosecond time scale indicate that the binding structure is rigid and the local motions of the ligand are nearly "frozen" in the protein. Another major finding is the elucidation of the directed dynamics by the protein. Proton transfer and intramolecular twisting of 2-(2'-hydroxyphenyl)-4-methyloxazole were observed to evolve along two routes: one involves the direct stretching motion in the molecular plane (approximately 200 fs) and is not sensitive to the environment; the second, less dominant, is related to the twisting motion (approximately 3 ps) of the two heterocyclic rings and drastically slows down in the protein hydrophobic pocket.

Porcine cadaver iris model for iris heating during corneal surgery with a femtosecond laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Hui; Fan, Zhongwei; Wang, Jiang; Yan, Ying; Juhasz, Tibor; Kurtz, Ron

2015-03-01

Multiple femtosecond lasers have now been cleared for use for ophthalmic surgery, including for creation of corneal flaps in LASIK surgery. Preliminary study indicated that during typical surgical use, laser energy may pass beyond the cornea with potential effects on the iris. As a model for laser exposure of the iris during femtosecond corneal surgery, we simulated the temperature rise in porcine cadaver iris during direct illumination by the femtosecond laser. Additionally, ex-vivo iris heating due to femtosecond laser irradiation was measured with an infrared thermal camera (Fluke corp. Everett, WA) as a validation of the simulation.

Component pattern analysis of chemicals using multispectral THz imaging system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kawase, Kodo; Ogawa, Yuichi; Watanabe, Yuki

2004-04-01

We have developed a novel basic technology for terahertz (THz) imaging, which allows detection and identification of chemicals by introducing the component spatial pattern analysis. The spatial distributions of the chemicals were obtained from terahertz multispectral transillumination images, using absorption spectra previously measured with a widely tunable THz-wave parametric oscillator. Further we have applied this technique to the detection and identification of illicit drugs concealed in envelopes. The samples we used were methamphetamine and MDMA, two of the most widely consumed illegal drugs in Japan, and aspirin as a reference.

Resonant metamaterial detectors based on THz quantum-cascade structures

PubMed Central

Benz, A.; Krall, M.; Schwarz, S.; Dietze, D.; Detz, H.; Andrews, A. M.; Schrenk, W.; Strasser, G.; Unterrainer, K.

2014-01-01

We present the design, fabrication and characterisation of an intersubband detector employing a resonant metamaterial coupling structure. The semiconductor heterostructure relies on a conventional THz quantum-cascade laser design and is operated at zero bias for the detector operation. The same active region can be used to generate or detect light depending on the bias conditions and the vertical confinement. The metamaterial is processed directly into the top metal contact and is used to couple normal incidence radiation resonantly to the intersubband transitions. The device is capable of detecting light below and above the reststrahlenband of gallium-arsenide corresponding to the mid-infrared and THz spectral region. PMID:24608677

A Broadband THz-TDS System Based on DSTMS Emitter and LTG InGaAs/InAlAs Photoconductive Antenna Detector

PubMed Central

Zhang, Ying; Zhang, Xiaoling; Li, Shaoxian; Gu, Jianqiang; Li, Yanfeng; Tian, Zhen; Ouyang, Chunmei; He, Mingxia; Han, Jiaguang; Zhang, Weili

2016-01-01

We demonstrate a 4-f terahertz time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) system using an organic crystal DSTMS as the THz emitter and a low temperature grown (LTG) InGaAs/InAlAs photoconductive antenna as the receiver. The system covers a frequency range from 0.2 up to 8 THz. The influences of the pump laser power, the probe laser power and the azimuthal angle of the DSTMS crystal on the time-domain THz amplitude are experimentally analyzed. The frequency accuracy of the system is verified by measuring two metamaterial samples and a lactose film in this THz-TDS system. The proposed combination of DSTMS emission and PC antenna detection realizes a compact and low-cost THz-TDS scheme with an ultra-broad bandwidth, which may promote the development and the applications of THz-TDS techniques. PMID:27244689

A Broadband THz-TDS System Based on DSTMS Emitter and LTG InGaAs/InAlAs Photoconductive Antenna Detector.

PubMed

Zhang, Ying; Zhang, Xiaoling; Li, Shaoxian; Gu, Jianqiang; Li, Yanfeng; Tian, Zhen; Ouyang, Chunmei; He, Mingxia; Han, Jiaguang; Zhang, Weili

2016-05-31

We demonstrate a 4-f terahertz time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) system using an organic crystal DSTMS as the THz emitter and a low temperature grown (LTG) InGaAs/InAlAs photoconductive antenna as the receiver. The system covers a frequency range from 0.2 up to 8 THz. The influences of the pump laser power, the probe laser power and the azimuthal angle of the DSTMS crystal on the time-domain THz amplitude are experimentally analyzed. The frequency accuracy of the system is verified by measuring two metamaterial samples and a lactose film in this THz-TDS system. The proposed combination of DSTMS emission and PC antenna detection realizes a compact and low-cost THz-TDS scheme with an ultra-broad bandwidth, which may promote the development and the applications of THz-TDS techniques.

Investigation of interaction femtosecond laser pulses with skin and eyes mathematical model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rogov, P. U.; Smirnov, S. V.; Semenova, V. A.; Melnik, M. V.; Bespalov, V. G.

2016-08-01

We present a mathematical model of linear and nonlinear processes that takes place under the action of femtosecond laser radiation on the cutaneous covering. The study is carried out and the analytical solution of the set of equations describing the dynamics of the electron and atomic subsystems and investigated the processes of linear and nonlinear interaction of femtosecond laser pulses in the vitreous of the human eye, revealed the dependence of the pulse duration on the retina of the duration of the input pulse and found the value of the radiation power density, in which there is a self-focusing is obtained. The results of the work can be used to determine the maximum acceptable energy, generated by femtosecond laser systems, and to develop Russian laser safety standards for femtosecond laser systems.

Dispersion characteristics of plasmonic waveguides for THz waves

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Markides, Christos; Viphavakit, Charusluk; Themistos, Christos; Komodromos, Michael; Kalli, Kyriacos; Quadir, Anita; Rahman, Azizur

2013-05-01

Today there is an increasing surge in Surface Plasmon based research and recent studies have shown that a wide range of plasmon-based optical elements and techniques have led to the development of a variety of active switches, passive waveguides, biosensors, lithography masks, to name just a few. The Terahertz (THz) frequency region of the electromagnetic spectrum is located between the traditional microwave spectrum and the optical frequencies, and offers a significant scientific and technological potential in many fields, such as in sensing, in imaging and in spectroscopy. Waveguiding in this intermediate spectral region is a major challenge. Amongst the various THz waveguides suggested, the metal-clad waveguides supporting surface plasmon modes waves and specifically hollow core structures, coated with insulating material are showing the greatest promise as low-loss waveguides for their use in active components and as well as passive waveguides. The H-field finite element method (FEM) based full-vector formulation is used to study the vectorial modal field properties and the complex propagation characteristics of Surface Plasmon modes of a hollow-core dielectric coated rectangular waveguide structure. Additionally, the finite difference time domain (FDTD) method is used to estimate the dispersion parameters and the propagation loss of the rectangular waveguide.

High incidence of rainbow glare after femtosecond laser assisted-LASIK using the upgraded FS200 femtosecond laser.

PubMed

Zhang, Yu; Chen, Yue-Guo

2018-03-05

To compare the incidence of rainbow glare (RG) after femtosecond laser assisted-LASIK (FS-LASIK) using the upgraded FS200 femtosecond laser with different flap cut parameter settings. A consecutive series of 129 patients (255 eyes) who underwent FS-LASIK for correcting myopia and/or astigmatism using upgraded WaveLight FS200 femtosecond laser with the original settings was included in group A. Another consecutive series of 129 patients (255 eyes) who underwent FS-LASIK using upgraded WaveLight FS200 femtosecond laser with flap cut parameter settings changed (decreased pulse energy, spot and line separation) was included in group B. The incidence and fading time of RG, confocal microscopic image and postoperative clinical results were compared between the two groups. There were no differences between the two groups in age, baseline refraction, excimer laser ablation depth, postoperative uncorrected visual acuity and refraction. The incidence rate of RG in group A (35/255, 13.73%) was significantly higher than that in group B (4/255, 1.57%) (P < 0.05). The median fading time was 3 months in group A and 1 month in group B (P > 0.05).The confocal microscopic images showed wider laser spot spacing in group A than group B. The incidence of RG was significantly correlated with age and grouping (P < 0.05). The upgraded FS200 femtosecond laser with original flap cut parameter settings could increase the incidence of RG. The narrower grating size and lower pulse energy could ameliorate this side effect.

THz polariton laser using an intracavity Mg:LiNbO₃ crystal with protective Teflon coating.

PubMed

Ortega, Tiago A; Pask, Helen M; Spence, David J; Lee, Andrew J

2017-02-20

An enhancement in the performance of a THz polariton laser based on an intracavity magnesium-doped lithium niobate crystal (Mg:LiNbO₃) in surface-emitted (SE) configuration is demonstrated resulting from the deposition of a protective Teflon coating on the total internal reflection surface of the crystal. In this cavity geometry the resonating fields undergo total internal reflection (TIR) inside the lithium niobate, and laser damage to that surface can be a limiting factor in performance. The protective layer prevents laser damage to the crystal surface, enabling higher pump power, yielding higher THz output power and wider frequency tuning range. With the unprotected crystal, narrow-band THz output tunable from 1.50 to 2.81 THz was produced, with maximum average output power of 20.1 µW at 1.76 THz for 4 W diode pump power (limited by laser damage to the crystal). With the Teflon coating, no laser damage to the crystal was observed, and the system produced narrow-band THz output tunable from 1.46 to 3.84 THz, with maximum average output power of 56.8 µW at 1.76 THz for 6.5 W diode pump power. This is the highest average output power and the highest diode-to-terahertz conversion efficiency ever reported for an intracavity terahertz polariton laser.

Scheimpflug topographical changes after Femtosecond LASIK for mixed astigmatism - theoretical aspects and case study.

PubMed

Tabacaru, Bogdana; Stanca, Horia Tudor

2017-01-01

Objective: To evaluate the corneal topographical changes after Femtosecond-LASIK surgery in eyes with mixed astigmatism. Methods: We present the analysis of the corneal Scheimpflug topographies of a patient treated with Femtosecond-LASIK technique for bilateral mixed astigmatism. Results: Three-dimensional reconstruction maps and differential anterior curvature maps were used to demonstrate the ablation profile and its stability in time. Conclusions: Visual and refractive results were very good after surgery, being topographically confirmed by the corneal reshaping which was performed as planned, the achieved ablation being stable during the one-year follow-up period.

Femtosecond laser ablation of bovine cortical bone

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cangueiro, Liliana T.; Vilar, Rui; Botelho do Rego, Ana M.; Muralha, Vania S. F.

2012-12-01

We study the surface topographical, structural, and compositional modifications induced in bovine cortical bone by femtosecond laser ablation. The tests are performed in air, with a Yb:KYW chirped-pulse-regenerative amplification laser system (500 fs, 1030 nm) at fluences ranging from 0.55 to 2.24 J/cm2. The ablation process is monitored by acoustic emission measurements. The topography of the laser-treated surfaces is studied by scanning electron microscopy, and their constitution is characterized by glancing incidence x-ray diffraction, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and micro-Raman spectroscopy. The results show that femtosecond laser ablation allows removing bone without melting, carbonization, or cracking. The structure and composition of the remaining tissue are essentially preserved, the only constitutional changes observed being a reduction of the organic material content and a partial recrystallization of hydroxyapatite in the most superficial region of samples. The results suggest that, within this fluence range, ablation occurs by a combination of thermal and electrostatic mechanisms, with the first type of mechanism predominating at lower fluences. The associated thermal effects explain the constitutional changes observed. We show that femtosecond lasers are a promising tool for delicate orthopaedic surgeries, where small amounts of bone must be cut with negligible damage, thus minimizing surgical trauma.

THz Solar Observations on Board of a Trans-Antarctic Stratospheric Balloon Flight

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kaufmann, P.; Abrantes, A.; Bortolucci, E. C.; Caspi, A.; Fernandes, L. O. T.; Kropotov, G.; Kudaka, A. S.; Laurent, G.; Machado, N.; Marcon, R.;

Time-resolved observation of coherent excitonic nonlinear response with a table-top narrowband THz pulse wave

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Uchida, K.; Hirori, H., E-mail: hirori@icems.kyoto-u.ac.jp; CREST, Japan Science and Technology Agency, Kawaguchi, Saitama 332-0012

2015-11-30

By combining a tilted-pulse-intensity-front scheme using a LiNbO{sub 3} crystal and a chirped-pulse-beating method, we generated a narrowband intense terahertz (THz) pulse, which had a maximum electric field of more than 10 kV/cm at around 2 THz, a bandwidth of ∼50 GHz, and frequency tunability from 0.5 to 2 THz. By performing THz-pump and near-infrared-probe experiments on GaAs quantum wells, we observed that the resonant excitation of the intraexcitonic 1s-2p transition induces a clear and large Autler-Townes splitting. Our time-resolved measurements show that the splitting energy observed in the rising edge region of electric field is larger than in the constant region.more » This result implies that the splitting energy depends on the time-averaged THz field over the excitonic dephasing time rather than that at the instant of the exciton creation by a probe pulse.« less

Accurate determination of dielectric permittivity of polymers from 75  GHz to 1.6  THz using both S-parameters and transmission spectroscopy.

PubMed

Chang, Tianying; Zhang, Xiansheng; Zhang, Xiaoxuan; Cui, Hong-Liang

2017-04-20

Interactions of terahertz (THz) electromagnetic radiation with polymer materials have been studied recently with increasing depth and breadth, for purposes of both using polymers in fabricating THz optical components such as lenses, waveplates, waveguides, and sample holders/containers, and employing THz spectral imaging as a new tool for nondestructive testing of polymer composite structures. Either endeavor cannot even begin without a quantitative knowledge of the complex dielectric permittivity, i.e., the propagation and attenuation properties of such polymers in the requisite wave band. In this paper, a number of non-polar and non-magnetic polymers, such as polytetrafluoroethylene, polypropylene, high-density polyethylene, and polymethyl methacrylate, are studied for the purpose of determining their complex dielectric permittivity, including its real part and imaginary parts, in the wide frequency band from millimeter wave to THz wave (75 GHz-1.6 THz), in two ways. The first is a free space method based on a vector network analyzer covering the frequency region from 75 to 500 GHz, and the second is the THz time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS), effective for the region of 100 GHz-1.6 THz. The results are consistent with existing data (with discrepancies less than 1% in most cases for both the index of refraction and the absorption coefficient), and where they overlap in frequency coverage, the two methods yield identical results to within measurement error.

Material Inspection Using THz and Thermal Wave

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Cunlin; Mu, Kaijun; Li, Yanhong; Zhang, X.-C.

2007-03-01

Terahertz (THz) and thermal wave imaging technologies are complementary inspection modalities for use in non-contact and non-destructive evaluation. Both of them are applied in order to evaluate damages on a variety of composite samples. We will also report the test of a large number of insulation foam panels used in NASA's External Fuel Tank through pulse and CW terahertz systems. The study of defects using the two techniques in selected materials, including metal plates, carbon fibers, glass fibers, carbon silicon composites, etc is also shown.

A THz Spectroscopy System Based on Coherent Radiation from Ultrashort Electron Bunches

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saisut, J.; Rimjaem, S.; Thongbai, C.

2018-05-01

A spectroscopy system will be discussed for coherent THz transition radiation emitted from short electron bunches, which are generated from a system consisting of an RF gun with a thermionic cathode, an alpha-magnet as a magnetic bunch compressor, and a linear accelerator for post-acceleration. The THz radiation is generated as backward transition radiation when electron bunches pass through an aluminum foil. The emitted THz transition radiation, which is coherent at wavelengths equal to and longer than the electron bunch length, is coupled to a Michelson interferometer. The performance of the spectroscopy system employing a Michelson interferometer is discussed. The radiation power spectra under different conditions are presented. As an example, the optical constant of a silicon wafer can be obtained using the dispersive Fourier transform spectroscopy (DFTS) technique.

Resonant-phonon-assisted THz quantum cascade lasers with metal-metal waveguides.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Callebaut, Hans; Kohen, Stephen; Kumar, Sushil

2004-06-01

We report our development of terahertz (THz) quantum-cascade lasers (QCLs) based on two novel features. First, the depopulation of the lower radiative level is achieved through resonant longitudinal optical (LO-)phonon scattering. This depopulation mechanism is robust at high temperatures and high injection levels. In contrast to infrared QCLs that also use LO-phonon scattering for depopulation, in our THz lasers the selectivity of the depopulation scattering is achieved through a combination of resonant tunneling and LO-phonon scattering, hence the term resonant phonon. This resonant-phonon scheme allows a highly selective depopulation of the lower radiative level with a sub-picosecond lifetime, while maintainingmore » a relatively long upper level lifetime (>5 ps) that is due to upper-to-ground-state scattering. The second feature of our lasers is that mode confinement is achieved by using a novel double-sided metal-metal waveguide, which yields an essentially unity mode confinement factor and therefore a low total cavity loss at THz frequencies. Based on these two unique features, we have achieved some record performance, including, but not limited to, the highest pulsed operating temperature of 137 K, the highest continuous-wave operating temperature of 97 K, and the longest wavelength of 141 {micro}m (corresponding to 2.1 THz) without the assistance of a magnetic field.« less

THz and mm-Wave Sensing of Corneal Tissue Water Content: Electromagnetic Modeling and Analysis

PubMed Central

Taylor, Zachary D.; Garritano, James; Sung, Shijun; Bajwa, Neha; Bennett, David B.; Nowroozi, Bryan; Tewari, Priyamvada; Sayre, James; Hubschman, Jean-Pierre; Deng, Sophie; Brown, Elliott R.; Grundfest, Warren S.

2015-01-01

Terahertz (THz) spectral properties of human cornea are explored as a function of central corneal thickness (CCT) and corneal water content, and the clinical utility of THz-based corneal water content sensing is discussed. Three candidate corneal tissue water content (CTWC) perturbations, based on corneal physiology, are investigated that affect the axial water distribution and total thickness. The THz frequency reflectivity properties of the three CTWC perturbations were simulated and explored with varying system center frequency and bandwidths (Q-factors). The modeling showed that at effective optical path lengths on the order of a wavelength the cornea presents a lossy etalon bordered by air at the anterior and the aqueous humor at the posterior. The simulated standing wave peak-to-valley ratio is pronounced at lower frequencies and its effect on acquired data can be modulated by adjusting the bandwidth of the sensing system. These observations are supported with experimental spectroscopic data. The results suggest that a priori knowledge of corneal thickness can be utilized for accurate assessments of corneal tissue water content. The physiologic variation of corneal thickness with respect to the wavelengths spanned by the THz band is extremely limited compared to all other structures in the body making CTWC sensing unique amongst all proposed applications of THz medical imaging. PMID:26322247

A compact, all-optical, THz wave generator based on self-modulation in a slab photonic crystal waveguide with a single sub-nanometer graphene layer.

PubMed

Asadi, R; Ouyang, Z; Mohammd, M M

2015-07-14

We design a compact, all-optical THz wave generator based on self-modulation in a 1-D slab photonic crystal (PhC) waveguide with a single sub-nanometer graphene layer by using enhanced nonlinearity of graphene. It has been shown that at the bandgap edge of higher bands of a 1-D slab PhC, through only one sub-nanometer graphene layer we can obtain a compact, high modulation factor (about 0.98 percent), self-intensity modulator at a high frequency (about 0.6 THz) and low threshold intensity (about 15 MW per square centimeter), and further a compact, all-optical THz wave generator by integrating the self-modulator with a THz photodiode or photonic mixer. Such a THz source is expected to have a relatively high efficiency compared with conventional sources based on optical methods. The proposed THz source can find wide applications in THz science and technology, e.g., in THz imaging, THz sensors and detectors, THz communication systems, and THz optical integrated logic circuits.

Analysis of 2D THz-Raman spectroscopy using a non-Markovian Brownian oscillator model with nonlinear system-bath interactions.

PubMed

Ikeda, Tatsushi; Ito, Hironobu; Tanimura, Yoshitaka

2015-06-07

We explore and describe the roles of inter-molecular vibrations employing a Brownian oscillator (BO) model with linear-linear (LL) and square-linear (SL) system-bath interactions, which we use to analyze two-dimensional (2D) THz-Raman spectra obtained by means of molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. In addition to linear infrared absorption (1D IR), we calculated 2D Raman-THz-THz, THz-Raman-THz, and THz-THz-Raman signals for liquid formamide, water, and methanol using an equilibrium non-equilibrium hybrid MD simulation. The calculated 1D IR and 2D THz-Raman signals are compared with results obtained from the LL+SL BO model applied through use of hierarchal Fokker-Planck equations with non-perturbative and non-Markovian noise. We find that all of the qualitative features of the 2D profiles of the signals obtained from the MD simulations are reproduced with the LL+SL BO model, indicating that this model captures the essential features of the inter-molecular motion. We analyze the fitted 2D profiles in terms of anharmonicity, nonlinear polarizability, and dephasing time. The origins of the echo peaks of the librational motion and the elongated peaks parallel to the probe direction are elucidated using optical Liouville paths.

Generation of tunable narrow-band surface-emitted terahertz radiation in periodically poled lithium niobate.

PubMed

Weiss, C; Torosyan, G; Avetisyan, Y; Beigang, R

2001-04-15

Generation of tunable narrow-band terahertz (THz) radiation perpendicular to the surface of periodically poled lithium niobate by optical rectification of femtosecond pulses is reported. The generated THz radiation can be tuned by use of different poling periods and different observation angles, limited only by the available bandwidth of the pump pulse. Typical bandwidths were 50-100 GHz, depending on the collection angle and the number of periods involved.

Concept of a tunable source of coherent THz radiation driven by a plasma modulated electron beam

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, H.; Konoplev, I. V.; Doucas, G.; Smith, J.

2018-04-01

We have carried out numerical studies which consider the modulation of a picosecond long relativistic electron beam in a plasma channel and the generation of a micro-bunched train. The subsequent propagation of the micro-bunched beam in the vacuum area was also investigated. The same numerical model was then used to simulate the radiation arising from the interaction of the micro-bunched beam with a metallic grating. The dependence of the radiation spectrum on the parameters of the micro-bunched beam has been studied and the tunability of the radiation by the variation of the micro-bunch spacing has been demonstrated. The micro-bunch spacing can be changed easily by altering the plasma density without changing the beam energy or current. Using the results of these studies, we develop a conceptual design of a tunable source of coherent terahertz (THz) radiation driven by a plasma modulated beam. Such a source would be a potential and useful alternative to conventional vacuum THz tubes and THz free-electron laser sources.

THz Pyro-Optical Detector Based on LiNbO3 Whispering Gallery Mode Microdisc Resonator

PubMed Central

Cosci, Alessandro; Cerminara, Matteo; Nunzi Conti, Gualtiero; Soria, Silvia; Righini, Giancarlo C.; Pelli, Stefano

2017-01-01

This study analyzes the capabilities of a LiNbO3 whispering gallery mode microdisc resonator as a potential bolometer detector in the THz range. The resonator is theoretically characterized in the stationary regime by its thermo-optic and thermal coefficients. Considering a Q-factor of 107, a minimum detectable power of 20 μW was evaluated, three orders of magnitude above its noise equivalent power. This value opens up the feasibility of exploiting LiNbO3 disc resonators as sensitive room-temperature detectors in the THz range. PMID:28134857

Femtosecond laser three-dimensional micro- and nanofabrication

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sugioka, Koji; Cheng, Ya

2014-12-01

The rapid development of the femtosecond laser has revolutionized materials processing due to its unique characteristics of ultrashort pulse width and extremely high peak intensity. The short pulse width suppresses the formation of a heat-affected zone, which is vital for ultrahigh precision fabrication, whereas the high peak intensity allows nonlinear interactions such as multiphoton absorption and tunneling ionization to be induced in transparent materials, which provides versatility in terms of the materials that can be processed. More interestingly, irradiation with tightly focused femtosecond laser pulses inside transparent materials makes three-dimensional (3D) micro- and nanofabrication available due to efficient confinement of the nonlinear interactions within the focal volume. Additive manufacturing (stereolithography) based on multiphoton absorption (two-photon polymerization) enables the fabrication of 3D polymer micro- and nanostructures for photonic devices, micro- and nanomachines, and microfluidic devices, and has applications for biomedical and tissue engineering. Subtractive manufacturing based on internal modification and fabrication can realize the direct fabrication of 3D microfluidics, micromechanics, microelectronics, and photonic microcomponents in glass. These microcomponents can be easily integrated in a single glass microchip by a simple procedure using a femtosecond laser to realize more functional microdevices, such as optofluidics and integrated photonic microdevices. The highly localized multiphoton absorption of a tightly focused femtosecond laser in glass can also induce strong absorption only at the interface of two closely stacked glass substrates. Consequently, glass bonding can be performed based on fusion welding with femtosecond laser irradiation, which provides the potential for applications in electronics, optics, microelectromechanical systems, medical devices, microfluidic devices, and small satellites. This review paper

Femtosecond laser three-dimensional micro- and nanofabrication

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sugioka, Koji, E-mail: ksugioka@riken.jp; Cheng, Ya, E-mail: ya.cheng@siom.ac.cn

2014-12-15

The rapid development of the femtosecond laser has revolutionized materials processing due to its unique characteristics of ultrashort pulse width and extremely high peak intensity. The short pulse width suppresses the formation of a heat-affected zone, which is vital for ultrahigh precision fabrication, whereas the high peak intensity allows nonlinear interactions such as multiphoton absorption and tunneling ionization to be induced in transparent materials, which provides versatility in terms of the materials that can be processed. More interestingly, irradiation with tightly focused femtosecond laser pulses inside transparent materials makes three-dimensional (3D) micro- and nanofabrication available due to efficient confinement ofmore » the nonlinear interactions within the focal volume. Additive manufacturing (stereolithography) based on multiphoton absorption (two-photon polymerization) enables the fabrication of 3D polymer micro- and nanostructures for photonic devices, micro- and nanomachines, and microfluidic devices, and has applications for biomedical and tissue engineering. Subtractive manufacturing based on internal modification and fabrication can realize the direct fabrication of 3D microfluidics, micromechanics, microelectronics, and photonic microcomponents in glass. These microcomponents can be easily integrated in a single glass microchip by a simple procedure using a femtosecond laser to realize more functional microdevices, such as optofluidics and integrated photonic microdevices. The highly localized multiphoton absorption of a tightly focused femtosecond laser in glass can also induce strong absorption only at the interface of two closely stacked glass substrates. Consequently, glass bonding can be performed based on fusion welding with femtosecond laser irradiation, which provides the potential for applications in electronics, optics, microelectromechanical systems, medical devices, microfluidic devices, and small satellites. This review

Time-resolved study of femtosecond laser induced micro-modifications inside transparent brittle materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hendricks, F.; Matylitsky, V. V.; Domke, M.; Huber, Heinz P.

2016-03-01

Laser processing of optically transparent or semi-transparent, brittle materials is finding wide use in various manufacturing sectors. For example, in consumer electronic devices such as smartphones or tablets, cover glass needs to be cut precisely in various shapes. The unique advantage of material processing with femtosecond lasers is efficient, fast and localized energy deposition in nearly all types of solid materials. When an ultra-short laser pulse is focused inside glass, only the localized region in the neighborhood of the focal volume absorbs laser energy by nonlinear optical absorption. Therefore, the processing volume is strongly defined, while the rest of the target stays unaffected. Thus ultra-short pulse lasers allow cutting of the chemically strengthened glasses such as Corning Gorilla glass without cracking. Non-ablative cutting of transparent, brittle materials, using the newly developed femtosecond process ClearShapeTM from Spectra-Physics, is based on producing a micron-sized material modification track with well-defined geometry inside. The key point for development of the process is to understand the induced modification by a single femtosecond laser shot. In this paper, pump-probe microscopy techniques have been applied to study the defect formation inside of transparent materials, namely soda-lime glass samples, on a time scale between one nanosecond to several tens of microseconds. The observed effects include acoustic wave propagation as well as mechanical stress formation in the bulk of the glass. Besides better understanding of underlying physical mechanisms, our experimental observations have enabled us to find optimal process parameters for the glass cutting application and lead to better quality and speed for the ClearShapeTM process.

Theoretical studies on stability and feasibility of 0.34 THz EIK

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Shuang; Wang, Jianguo; Wang, Guangqiang; Wang, Dongyang

2017-05-01

The stability of the circuit and the tolerance during the manufacture process are theoretically studied in the design of 0.34 THz extended interaction klystron, which are helpful to increase the feasibility of the device. By using the small signal theory, the beam-loading conductance is studied to increase the efficiency of the beam-wave interaction. Combined with the study of start current for oscillation modes, the analysis of stability in multi-gap cavity is proposed, leading to the optimization of cavity. As a crucial factor affecting the ultimate performance of device, the inaccuracy during the fabrication process is researched. The acceptable tolerance is summarized through discussion of various geometrical dimensions' influences on cavity's characteristics. The study of power loss in the conductive wall is presented and the copper is believed to be adapted in making the device practicable with low attenuation. The physical design is simulated and verified by the particle-in-cell (PIC) method, and the results show that the output power of 142 W can be reached steadily at the frequency of 347.7 GHz, approaching the gain of 37.9 dB.

Femtosecond Beam Sources and Applications

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Uesaka, Mitsuru

2004-12-07

Short particle beam science has been promoted by electron linac and radiation chemistry up to picoseconds. Recently, table-top TW laser enables several kinds of short particle beams and pump-and-probe analyses. 4th generation SR sources aim to generation and application of about 100 fs X-ray. Thus, femtosecond beam science has become one of the important field in advanced accelerator concepts. By using electron linac with photoinjector, about 200 fs single bunch and 3 fs multi-bunches are available. Tens femtoseconds monoenergetic electron bunch is expected by laser plasma cathode. Concerning the electron bunch diagnosis, we have seen remarkable progress in streak camera,more » coherent radiation spectroscopy, fluctuation method and E/O crystal method. Picosecond time-resolved pump-and-probe analysis by synchronizing electron linac and laser is now possible, but the timing jitter and drift due to several fluctuations in electronic devices and environment are still in picoseconds. On the other hand, the synchronization between laser and secondary beam is done passively by an optical beam-splitter in the system based on one TW laser. Therefore, the timing jitter and drift do not intrinsically exist there. The author believes that the femtosecond time-resolved pump-and-probe analysis must be initiated by the laser plasma beam sources. As to the applications, picosecond time-resolved system by electron photoinjector/linac and femtosecond laser are operating in more than 5 facilities for radiation chemistry in the world. Ti:Sapphire-laser-based repetitive pump-and-probe analysis started by time-resolved X-ray diffraction to visualize the atomic motion. Nd:Glass-laser-based single-shot analysis was performed to visualize the laser ablation via the single-shot ion imaging. The author expects that protein dynamics and ultrafast nuclear physics would be the next interesting targets. Monograph titled 'Femtosecond Beam Science' is published by Imperial College Press

Femtosecond pulse laser-oriented recording on dental prostheses: a trial introduction.

PubMed

Ichikawa, Tetsuo; Hayasaki, Yoshio; Fujita, Keiji; Nagao, Kan; Murata, Masayo; Kawano, Takanori; Chen, JianRong

2006-12-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of using a femtosecond pulse laser processing technique to store information on a dental prosthesis. Commercially pure titanium plates were processed by a femtosecond pulse laser system. The processed surface structure was observed with a reflective illumination microscope, scanning electron microscope, and atomic force microscope. Processed area was an almost conical pit with a clear boundary. When laser pulse energy was 2 microJ, the diameter and depth were approximately 10microm and 0.2 microm respectively--whereby both increased with laser pulse energy. Further, depth of pit increased with laser pulse number without any thermal effect. This study showed that the femtosecond pulse processing system was capable of recording personal identification and optional additional information on a dental prosthesis.

Nanowires for THz Spectroscopy

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-10-01

03-D-0009 Mansoor Sheik- Bahae Prepared by: OVPR/ University Strategic Partnership MSC02 1660 1 University of New Mexico Albuquerque, New...Z39.18 00-10-2013 Technical 07/21/2010 - 04/30/2012 Nanowires for THz Spectroscopy HDTRA1-03-D-0009 Mansoor Sheik- Bahae 3 26 OVPR/University Strategic...kilogram (C/kg) second (s) kilogram (kg) kilo pascal (kPa) 3 TABLE OF CONTENTS: I . Introduction ………....…………………………………………………… 01 II

The Effect of Femtosecond Laser Treatment on the Effectiveness of Resin-Zirconia Adhesive: An In Vitro Study

PubMed Central

Vicente Prieto, María; Gomes, Ana Luisa Caseiro; Montero Martín, Javier; Alvarado Lorenzo, Alfonso; Seoane Mato, Vicente; Albaladejo Martínez, Alberto

2016-01-01

Introduction: When aesthetics is compromised, dental ceramics are excellent materials for dental restorations; owing to their optical properties and biocompatibility, zirconia ceramics are particularly interesting. Self-adhesive resin cements are the most suitable for bonding to zirconia ceramics, but traditional adhesive chemistry is ineffective and surface treatments are required to improve the adhesive bonding between resin and zirconia. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of femtosecond laser treatment on the shear bond strength (SBS) of self-adhesive resin cement on zirconia surfaces and to contrast it with other different surface conditioning methods. Methods: Sixty square-shaped zirconia samples were divided randomly into four groups (n = 15) according to their surface conditioning method: the NT group - no surface treatment; the APA25 group - airborne abrasion with 25 μm alumina particles; the TSC group - tribochemical silica coating, and the FS group - femtosecond laser irradiation (800 nm, 4 mJ, 40 fs/pulse, 1 kHz). Self-adhesive resin cements were bonded at the centre of samples, and after 72 hours, they were tested for SBS with a universal testing machine at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min, until fracture. Five zirconia surfaces for each group were subjected to a surface morphology analysis by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The failure modes were noted and a third of the specimens were prepared to morphological analysis. Results: The NT group showed lower SBS values than the other groups. Femtosecond laser treatment demonstrated higher values than the control and APA25 groups and similar values to those of the TSC group. In the APA25 group, the surface conditioning method had values close to those of the TSC group, but lower than those obtained with femtosecond laser treatment. Conclusion: The treatment of zirconia with femtosecond laser irradiation created a consistent and profound surface roughness, improving the adhesive

Development of hot-electron THz bolometric mixers using MgB2 thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cunnane, Daniel; Kawamura, Jonathan; Karasik, Boris S.; Wolak, Matthaeus A.; Xi, X. X.

2014-07-01

Terahertz high-resolution spectroscopy of interstellar molecular clouds greatly relies on hot-electron superconducting bolometric (HEB) mixers. Current state-of-the-art receivers use mixer devices made from ultrathin (~ 3-5 nm) films of NbN with critical temperature ~ 9-11 K. Such mixers have been deployed on a number of groundbased, suborbital, and orbital platforms including the HIFI instrument on the Hershel Space Observatory. Despite its good sensitivity and well-established fabrication process, the NbN HEB mixer suffers from the narrow intermediate frequency (IF) bandwidth ~ 2-3 GHz and is limited to operation at liquid Helium temperature. As the heterodyne receivers are now trending towards "high THz" frequencies, the need in a larger IF bandwidth becomes more pressing since the same velocity resolution for a Doppler shifted line at 5 THz requires a 5-times greater IF bandwidth than at 1 THz. Our work is focusing on the realization of practical HEB mixers using ultrathin (10-20 nm) MgB2 films. They are prepared using a Hybrid Physical-Chemical Vapor Deposition (HPCVD) process yielding ultrathin films with critical temperature ~ 37-39 K. The expectation is that the combination of small thickness, high acoustic phonon transparency at the interface with the substrate, and very short electron-phonon relaxation time may lead to IF bandwidth ~ 10 GHz or even higher. SiC continues to be the most favorable substrate for MgB2 growth and as a result, a study has been conducted on the transparency of SiC at THz frequencies. FTIR measurements show that semi-insulating SiC substrates are at least as transparent as Si up to 2.5 THz. Currently films are passivated using a thin (10 nm) SiO2 layer which is deposited ex-situ via RF magnetron sputtering. Micron-sized spiral antenna-coupled HEB mixers have been fabricated using MgB2 films as thin as 10 nm. Fabrication was done using contact UV lithography and Ar Ion milling, with E-beam evaporated Au films deposited for the

All-femtosecond laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gabryte, Egle; Danieliene, Egle; Vaiceliunaite, Agne; Ruksenas, Osvaldas; Vengris, Mikas; Danielius, Romualdas

2013-03-01

We present a femtosecond solid-state Yb:KGW laser system capable of performing the complete laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) ophthalmic procedure. The fundamental infrared radiation (IR) is used to create the corneal flap, and subsequently the corneal stromal ablation is performed using the ultraviolet (UV) pulses of the fifth harmonic. The heating of cornea, ablated surface quality, and healing outcomes of the surgeries performed using the femtosecond laser system are investigated by both ex vivo and in vivo experiments and compared to the results of conventional clinical ArF excimer laser application. The results of this research indicate the feasibility of clinical application of femtosecond UV lasers for LASIK procedure.

Femtosecond Photon-Counting Receiver

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Krainak, Michael A.; Rambo, Timothy M.; Yang, Guangning; Lu, Wei; Numata, Kenji

2016-01-01

An optical correlation receiver is described that provides ultra-precise distance and/or time/pulse-width measurements even for weak (single photons) and short (femtosecond) optical signals. A new type of optical correlation receiver uses a fourth-order (intensity) interferometer to provide micron distance measurements even for weak (single photons) and short (femtosecond) optical signals. The optical correlator uses a low-noise-integrating detector that can resolve photon number. The correlation (range as a function of path delay) is calculated from the variance of the photon number of the difference of the optical signals on the two detectors. Our preliminary proof-of principle data (using a short-pulse diode laser transmitter) demonstrates tens of microns precision.

Femtosecond Photon-Counting Receiver

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Krainak, Michael A.; Rambo, Timothy M.; Yang, Guangning; Lu, Wei; Numata, Kenji

2016-01-01

An optical correlation receiver is described that provides ultra-precise distance and/or time-pulse-width measurements even for weak (single photons) and short (femtosecond) optical signals. A new type of optical correlation receiver uses a fourth-order (intensity) interferometer to provide micron distance measurements even for weak (single photons) and short (femtosecond) optical signals. The optical correlator uses a low-noise-integrating detector that can resolve photon number. The correlation (range as a function of path delay) is calculated from the variance of the photon number of the difference of the optical signals on the two detectors. Our preliminary proof-of principle data (using a short-pulse diode laser transmitter) demonstrates tens of microns precision.

Enhanced optical-to-THz conversion efficiency of photoconductive antenna using dielectric nano-layer encapsulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gupta, Abhishek; Rana, Goutam; Bhattacharya, Arkabrata; Singh, Abhishek; Jain, Ravikumar; Bapat, Rudheer D.; Duttagupta, S. P.; Prabhu, S. S.

2018-05-01

Photoconductive antennas (PCAs) are among the most conventional devices used for emission as well as detection of terahertz (THz) radiation. However, due to their low optical-to-THz conversion efficiencies, applications of these devices in out-of-laboratory conditions are limited. In this paper, we report several factors of enhancement in THz emission efficiency from conventional PCAs by coating a nano-layer of dielectric (TiO2) on the active area between the electrodes of a semi-insulating GaAs-based device. Extensive experiments were done to show the effect of thicknesses of the TiO2 layer on the THz power enhancement with different applied optical power and bias voltages. Multiphysics simulations were performed to elucidate the underlying physics behind the enhancement of efficiency of the PCA. Additionally, this layer increases the robustness of the electrode gaps of the PCAs with high electrical insulation as well as protect it from external dust particles.

Visualization of vasodynamics using THz imaging with applications to allergy testing (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sung, Shijun; Bajwa, Neha; Grundfest, Warren; Grundfest, Zachary

2016-03-01

This paper explores vasodynamics in response to histamine injection using reflective THz imaging. Histamine is a major contributor to allergic disease. Elevations in tissue histamine levels have been observed during anaphylaxis and experimental allergic responses of the skin, nose, and airways. In the skin specifically, vasodilation, vascular permeability, and pruritus is controlled by the release and resorption of histamine. These properties are leveraged in skin prick testing for allergies where histamine dihydrochloride is injected as a positive control to confirm allergen susceptibility prior to the administration of candidate allergens. Subjective parameters such as skin coloration, irritation, and bulging as a consequence of histamine injection and histamine release are well characterized. However limited quantitative metrics on the body's edematous response are available due to the lack of imaging diagnostics that can map surface tissue water content (TWC). THz imaging was used to explore the utility of reflective THz imaging to quantify edematous responses to histamine. Rat models were injected with varying concentrations of histamine dihydrochloride and the resultant edematous response arising from perturbed vasodymanics was mapped. Significant build up and dissipation of surface tissue water content was observed and THz frequency contrast was seen to correlate with visual appearance in some cases and in others reveal tissue water content variations not discernable with the naked eye. The results suggest that THz imaging may be a valuable tool in quantifying the degree of allergic responses and assist in detecting hypersensitivity.

Giant angular dependence of electromagnetic induced transparency in THz metamaterials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Changji; Huang, Yuanyuan; Yao, Zehan; Yu, Leilei; Jin, Yanping; Xu, Xinlong

2018-02-01

The giant electromagnetic induced transparency (EIT) phenomenon is observed in symmetrical metamaterials with angular dependence in the THz region. This is due to the asymmetrical electromagnetic field distribution on the surface of the metamaterials, which induces asymmetric current distribution. Blueshift with the increase of the unit cell period has been observed, which is due to the unusual electromagnetic interaction between units at oblique incidence. This EIT demonstrates an angular dependent high Q-factor, which is sensitive to the dielectric environment. The angle-induced EIT effect could pave the way for future tunable sensing applications in the THz region.

A 2.5-2.7 THz Room Temperature Electronic Source

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Maestrini, Alain; Mehdi, Imran; Lin, Robert; Siles, Jose Vicente; Lee, Choonsup; Gill, John; Chattopadhyay, Goutam; Schlecht, Erich; Bertrand, Thomas; Ward, John

2011-01-01

We report on a room temperature 2.5 to 2.7 THz electronic source based on frequency multipliers. The source utilizes a cascade of three frequency multipliers with W-band power amplifiers driving the first stage multiplier. Multiple-chip multipliers are utilized for the two initial stages to improve the power handling capability and a sub-micron anode is utilized for the final stage tripler. Room temperature measurements indicate that the source can put out a peak power of about 14 microwatts with more than 4 microwatts in the 2.5 to 2.7 THz range.

Thermally triggered phononic gaps in liquids at THz scale

DOE PAGES

Bolmatov, Dima; Zhernenkov, Mikhail; Zavyalov, Dmitry; ...

2016-01-14

In this study we present inelastic X-ray scattering experiments in a diamond anvil cell and molecular dynamic simulations to investigate the behavior of phononic excitations in liquid Ar. The spectra calculated using molecular dynamics were found to be in a good agreement with the experimental data. Furthermore, we observe that, upon temperature increases, a low-frequency transverse phononic gap emerges while high-frequency propagating modes become evanescent at the THz scale. The effect of strong localization of a longitudinal phononic mode in the supercritical phase is observed for the first time. The evidence for the high-frequency transverse phononic gap due to themore » transition from an oscillatory to a ballistic dynamic regimes of motion is presented and supported by molecular dynamics simulations. This transition takes place across the Frenkel line thermodynamic limit which demarcates compressed liquid and non-compressed fluid domains on the phase diagram and is supported by calculations within the Green-Kubo phenomenological formalism. These results are crucial to advance the development of novel terahertz thermal devices, phononic lenses, mirrors, and other THz metamaterials.« less

Cryocooled terahertz photoconductive detector system with background-limited performance in 1.5–4 THz frequency range

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Aoki, Makoto; Hiromoto, Norihisa, E-mail: dnhirom@ipc.shizuoka.ac

2015-10-15

We describe a 4-K-cryocooled dual-band terahertz (THz) photoconductive detector system with background-limited performance. The detector system comprises two THz photoconductive detectors covering a response in a wide frequency range from 1.5 to 4 THz, low noise amplifiers, optical low-pass filters to eliminate input radiation of higher frequencies, and a mechanical 4 K Gifford-McMahon refrigerator that provides practical and convenient operation without a liquid He container. The electrical and optical performances of the THz detector system were evaluated at a detector temperature of 4 K under 300 K background radiation. We proved that the detector system can achieve background-limited noise-equivalent-power onmore » the order of 10{sup −14} W/Hz{sup 1/2} in the frequency range from 1.5 to 4 THz even if the vibration noise of the mechanical refrigerator is present.« less

Possible standoff detection of ionizing radiation using high-power THz electromagnetic waves

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nusinovich, Gregory S.; Sprangle, Phillip; Romero-Talamas, Carlos A.; Rodgers, John; Pu, Ruifeng; Kashyn, Dmytro G.; Antonsen, Thomas M., Jr.; Granatstein, Victor L.

2012-06-01

Recently, a new method of remote detection of concealed radioactive materials was proposed. This method is based on focusing high-power short wavelength electromagnetic radiation in a small volume where the wave electric field exceeds the breakdown threshold. In the presence of free electrons caused by ionizing radiation, in this volume an avalanche discharge can then be initiated. When the wavelength is short enough, the probability of having even one free electron in this small volume in the absence of additional sources of ionization is low. Hence, a high breakdown rate will indicate that in the vicinity of this volume there are some materials causing ionization of air. To prove this concept a 0.67 THz gyrotron delivering 200-300 kW power in 10 microsecond pulses is under development. This method of standoff detection of concealed sources of ionizing radiation requires a wide range of studies, viz., evaluation of possible range, THz power and pulse duration, production of free electrons in air by gamma rays penetrating through container walls, statistical delay time in initiation of the breakdown in the case of low electron density, temporal evolution of plasma structure in the breakdown and scattering of THz radiation from small plasma objects. Most of these issues are discussed in the paper.

Single-chip source-free terahertz spectroscope across 0.04-0.99 THz: combining sub-wavelength near-field sensing and regression analysis.

PubMed

Wu, Xue; Sengupta, Kaushik

2018-03-19

This paper demonstrates a methodology to miniaturize THz spectroscopes into a single silicon chip by eliminating traditional solid-state architectural components such as complex tunable THz and optical sources, nonlinear mixing and amplifiers. The proposed method achieves this by extracting incident THz spectral signatures from the surface of an on-chip antenna itself. The information is sensed through the spectrally-sensitive 2D distribution of the impressed current surface under the THz incident field. By converting the antenna from a single-port to a massively multi-port architecture with integrated electronics and deep subwavelength sensing, THz spectral estimation is converted into a linear estimation problem. We employ rigorous regression techniques and analysis to demonstrate a single silicon chip system operating at room temperature across 0.04-0.99 THz with 10 MHz accuracy in spectrum estimation of THz tones across the entire spectrum.

Ultraprecise medical applications with ultrafast lasers: corneal surgery with femtosecond lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Loesel, Frieder H.; Kurtz, Ron M.; Horvath, Christopher; Sayegh, Samir I.; Mourou, Gerard A.; Bille, Josef F.; Juhasz, Tibor

1999-02-01

We investigated refractive corneal surgery in vivo and in vitro by intrastromal photodisruption using a compact ultrafast femtosecond laser system. Ultrashort-pulsed lasers operating in the femtosecond time regime are associated with significantly smaller and deterministic threshold energies for photodisruption, as well as reduced shock waves and smaller cavitation bubbles than the nanosecond or picosecond lasers. Our reliable all-solid-state laser system was specifically designed for real world medical applications. By scanning the 5 micron focus spot of the laser below the corneal surface, the overlapping small ablation volumes of single pulses resulted in contiguous tissue cutting and vaporization. Pulse energies were typically in the order of a few microjoules. Combination of different scanning patterns enabled us to perform corneal flap cutting, femtosecond-LASIK, and femtosecond intrastromal keratectomy in porcine, rabbit, and primate eyes. The cuts proved to be highly precise and possessed superior dissection and surface quality. Preliminary studies show consistent refractive changes in the in vivo studies. We conclude that the technology is capable to perform a variety of corneal refractive procedures at high precision, offering advantages over current mechanical and laser devices and enabling entirely new approaches for refractive surgery.

Tuning characteristics of narrowband THz radiation generated via optical rectification in periodically poled lithium niobate.

PubMed

Weiss, C; Torosyan, G; Meyn, J P; Wallenstein, R; Beigang, R; Avetisyan, Y

2001-04-23

The tuning properties of pulsed narrowband THz radiation generated via optical rectification in periodically poled lithium niobate have been investigated. Using a disk-shaped periodically poled crystal tuning was easily accomplished by rotating the crystal around its axis and observing the generated THz radiation in forward direction. In this way no beam deflection during tuning was observed. The total tuning range extended from 180 GHz up to 830 GHz and was limited by the poling period of 127 microm which determines the maximum THz frequency in forward direction.

The Study of 0.34 THz Monolithically Integrated Fourth Subharmonic Mixer Using Planar Schottky Barrier Diode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tong, Xiaodong; Li, Qian; An, Ning; Wang, Wenjie; Deng, Xiaodong; Zhang, Liang; Liu, Haitao; Zeng, Jianping; Li, Zhiqiang; Tang, Hailing; Xiong, Yong-Zhong

2015-11-01

A planar Schottky barrier diode with the designed Schottky contact area of approximately 3 μm2 is developed on gallium arsenide (GaAs) material. The measurements of the developed planar Schottky barrier diode indicate that the zero-biased junction capacitance Cj0 is 11.0 fF, the parasitic series resistance RS is 3.0 Ω, and the cut off frequency fT is 4.8 THz. A monolithically integrated fourth subharmonic mixer with this diode operating at the radio frequency (RF) signal frequency of 0.34 THz with the chip area of 0.6 mm2 is implemented. The intermediate frequency (IF) bandwidth is from DC to 40 GHz. The local oscillator (LO) bandwidth is 37 GHz from 60 to 97 GHz. The RF bandwidth is determined by the bandwidth of the on chip antenna, which is 28 GHz from 322 to 350 GHz. The measurements of the mixer demonstrated a conversion loss of approximately 51 dB.

Towards realization of quantitative atmospheric and industrial gas sensing using THz wave electronics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tekawade, Aniket; Rice, Timothy E.; Oehlschlaeger, Matthew A.; Mansha, Muhammad Waleed; Wu, Kefei; Hella, Mona M.; Wilke, Ingrid

2018-06-01

The potential of THz wave electronics for miniaturized non-intrusive sensors for atmospheric, environmental, and industrial gases is explored. A THz wave spectrometer is developed using a radio-frequency multiplier source and a Schottky-diode detector. Spectral absorption measurements were made in a gas cell within a frequency range of 220-330 GHz at room temperature and subatmospheric pressures. Measurements are reported for pure acetonitrile (CH3CN), methanol (CH3OH), and ethanol (C2H5OH) vapors at 5 and 10 Torr and for methanol dilute in the air (0.75-3.0 mol%) at a pressure of 500 Torr. An absorbance noise floor of 10-3 was achieved for a single 10 s scan of the 220-330 GHz frequency domain. Measured absorption spectra for methanol/air agree well at collisional-broadened conditions with spectral simulations carried out using literature spectroscopic parameters. In contrast to the previous submillimeter wave research that has focused on spectral absorbance at extremely low pressures (mTorr), where transitions are in the Doppler limit, and the present study illustrates the applicability of THz electronics for gas sensing at pressures approaching those found in atmospheric and industrial environments.

Tunable THz notch filter with a single groove inside parallel-plate waveguides.

PubMed

Lee, Eui Su; Jeon, Tae-In

2012-12-31

A single groove in a parallel-plate waveguide (PPWG) has been applied to a tunable terahertz (THz) notch filter with a transverse-electromagnetic (TEM) mode. When the air gap between the metal plates of the PPWG is controlled from 60 to 240 μm using a motor controlled translation stage or a piezo-actuator, the resonant frequency of the notch filter is changed from 1.75 up to 0.62 THz, respectively. Therefore, the measured tunable sensitivity of the notch filter increases to 6.28 GHz/μm. The measured resonant frequencies were found to be in good agreement with the calculation using an effective groove depth. Using a finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) simulation, we also demonstrate that the sensitivity of a THz microfluidic sensor can be increased via a small air gap, a narrow groove width, and a deep groove depth.

CW-THz vector spectroscopy and imaging system based on 1.55-µm fiber-optics.

PubMed

Kim, Jae-Young; Song, Ho-Jin; Yaita, Makoto; Hirata, Akihiko; Ajito, Katsuhiro

2014-01-27

We present a continuous-wave terahertz (THz) vector spectroscopy and imaging system based on a 1.5-µm fiber optic uni-traveling-carrier photodiode and InGaAs photo-conductive receiver. Using electro-optic (EO) phase modulators for THz phase control with shortened optical paths, the system achieves fast vector measurement with effective phase stabilization. Dynamic ranges of 100 dB · Hz and 75 dB · Hz at 300 GHz and 1 THz, and phase stability of 1.5° per minute are obtained. With the simultaneous measurement of absorbance and relative permittivity, we demonstrate non-destructive analyses of pharmaceutical cocrystals inside tablets within a few minutes.

GaSe1-xSx and GaSe1-xTex thick crystals for broadband terahertz pulses generation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nazarov, M. M.; Yu. Sarkisov, S.; Shkurinov, A. P.; Tolbanov, O. P.

2011-08-01

We demonstrate the possibility of broadband THz pulse generation in mixed GaSe1-xSx and GaSe1-xTex crystals. The ordinary and extraordinary refractive indices of the crystals have been measured by the terahertz time-domain spectroscopy method, those values strongly influence the efficiency of THz generation process. The high birefringence and transparency of pure GaSe and mixed crystals allow optical rectification of femtosecond laser pulses in the several millimeters thick crystal using the еее interaction process (with two pumping waves and generated THz wave all having extraordinary polarization in the crystal).

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bičiūnas, A.; Arlauskas, A.; Adamonis, J.

We report on terahertz (THz) emission from tellurium crystal surfaces excited by femtosecond optical pulses. Measurements were performed on three differently cut Te samples and with different wavelength optical excitation pulses. THz pulse amplitude dependences on the azimuthal angle measured at various excitation wavelengths have evidenced that three different mechanisms are responsible for THz generation in tellurium: second order nonlinear optical rectification effect, dominating at lower excitation photon energies, as well as transverse and ordinary photo-Dember effects, which emerge at energies larger than 0.9 eV. The shapes of the azimuthal angle dependences were also explained by theoretical model.

Fast responses from slowly relaxing'' liquids: A comparative study of the femtosecond dynamics of triacetin, ethylene glycol, and water

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chang, Y.J.; Castner, E.W. Jr.

1993-11-15

We have measured the ultrafast solvent relaxation of liquid ethylene glycol, triacetin, and water by means of femtosecond polarization spectroscopy, using optical-heterodyne-detected Raman-induced Kerr-effect spectroscopy. In the viscous liquids triacetin and ethylene glycol, femtosecond relaxation processes were resolved. Not surprisingly, the femtosecond nonlinear optical response of ethylene glycol is quite similar to that of water. Using the theory of Maroncelli, Kumar, and Papazyan, we transform the pure-nuclear solvent response into a dipolar-solvation correlation function for comparison with ultrafast electron-transfer reaction rates.

Fast responses from ``slowly relaxing'' liquids: A comparative study of the femtosecond dynamics of triacetin, ethylene glycol, and water

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chang, Yong Joon; Castner, Edward W., Jr.

1993-11-01

We have measured the ultrafast solvent relaxation of liquid ethylene glycol, triacetin, and water by means of femtosecond polarization spectroscopy, using optical-heterodyne-detected Raman-induced Kerr-effect spectroscopy. In the viscous liquids triacetin and ethylene glycol, femtosecond relaxation processes were resolved. Not surprisingly, the femtosecond nonlinear optical response of ethylene glycol is quite similar to that of water. Using the theory of Maroncelli, Kumar, and Papazyan, we transform the pure-nuclear solvent response into a dipolar-solvation correlation function for comparison with ultrafast electron-transfer reaction rates.

Epitaxial Ge2Sb2Te5 probed by single cycle THz pulses of coherent synchrotron radiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bragaglia, V.; Schnegg, A.; Calarco, R.; Holldack, K.

2016-10-01

A THz-probe spectroscopy scheme with laser-induced single cycle pulses of coherent synchrotron radiation is devised and adapted to reveal the dynamic THz transmittance response in epitaxially grown phase change materials upon 800 nm fs-laser excitation. Amorphous (a-) and crystalline (c-) films of the prototypical Ge2Sb2Te5 (GST) alloy are probed with single cycle THz pulses tuned to the spectral range of the highest absorption contrast at 2 THz. After an initial instantaneous sub-picosecond (ps) dynamic THz transmittance drop, the response of a-GST in that range is dominated only by a short recovery time τshort = 2 ps of the excited carriers. On the contrary, the behavior of the c-GST response displays a short decay of 0.85 ps followed by a long one τlong = 90 ps, suggesting that vacancy layers in an ordered c-GST play a role as dissipation channel for photo-induced free carriers.

Room temperature continuous wave, monolithic tunable THz sources based on highly efficient mid-infrared quantum cascade lasers

PubMed Central

Lu, Quanyong; Wu, Donghai; Sengupta, Saumya; Slivken, Steven; Razeghi, Manijeh

2016-01-01

A compact, high power, room temperature continuous wave terahertz source emitting in a wide frequency range (ν ~ 1–5 THz) is of great importance to terahertz system development for applications in spectroscopy, communication, sensing, and imaging. Here, we present a strong-coupled strain-balanced quantum cascade laser design for efficient THz generation based on intracavity difference frequency generation. Room temperature continuous wave emission at 3.41 THz with a side-mode suppression ratio of 30 dB and output power up to 14 μW is achieved with a wall-plug efficiency about one order of magnitude higher than previous demonstrations. With this highly efficient design, continuous wave, single mode THz emissions with a wide frequency tuning range of 2.06–4.35 THz and an output power up to 4.2 μW are demonstrated at room temperature from two monolithic three-section sampled grating distributed feedback-distributed Bragg reflector lasers. PMID:27009375

Room temperature continuous wave, monolithic tunable THz sources based on highly efficient mid-infrared quantum cascade lasers.

PubMed

Lu, Quanyong; Wu, Donghai; Sengupta, Saumya; Slivken, Steven; Razeghi, Manijeh

2016-03-24

A compact, high power, room temperature continuous wave terahertz source emitting in a wide frequency range (ν~1-5 THz) is of great importance to terahertz system development for applications in spectroscopy, communication, sensing, and imaging. Here, we present a strong-coupled strain-balanced quantum cascade laser design for efficient THz generation based on intracavity difference frequency generation. Room temperature continuous wave emission at 3.41 THz with a side-mode suppression ratio of 30 dB and output power up to 14 μW is achieved with a wall-plug efficiency about one order of magnitude higher than previous demonstrations. With this highly efficient design, continuous wave, single mode THz emissions with a wide frequency tuning range of 2.06-4.35 THz and an output power up to 4.2 μW are demonstrated at room temperature from two monolithic three-section sampled grating distributed feedback-distributed Bragg reflector lasers.

Observations in the 1.3 and 1.5 THz atmospheric windows with the Receiver Lab Telescope

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Marrone, Daniel P.; Blundell, Raymond; Tong, Edward; Paine, Scott N.; Loudkov, Denis; Kawamura, Jonathan H.; Luhr, Daniel; Barrientos, Claudio

2005-01-01

The Receiver Lab Telescope (RLT) is a groundbased terahertz telescope; it is currently the only instrument producing astronomical data between 1 and 2 THz. The capabilities of the RLT have been expanding since observations began in late 2002. Initial observations were limited to the 850 GHz and 1.03 THz windows due to the availability of solid state local oscillators. In the last year we have begun observations with new local oscillators for the 1.3 and 1.5 THz atmospheric windows.

Femtosecond lasers in ophthalmology: clinical applications in anterior segment surgery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Juhasz, Tibor; Nagy, Zoltan; Sarayba, Melvin; Kurtz, Ronald M.

2010-02-01

The human eye is a favored target for laser surgery due to its accessibility via the optically transparent ocular tissue. Femtosecond lasers with confined tissue effects and minimized collateral tissue damage are primary candidates for high precision intraocular surgery. The advent of compact diode-pumped femtosecond lasers, coupled with computer controlled beam delivery devices, enabled the development of high precision femtosecond laser for ophthalmic surgery. In this article, anterior segment femtosecond laser applications currently in clinical practice and investigation are reviewed. Corneal procedures evolved first and remain dominant due to easy targeting referenced from a contact surface, such as applanation lenses placed on the eye. Adding a high precision imaging technique, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT), can enable accurate targeting of tissue beyond the cornea, such as the crystalline lens. Initial clinical results of femtosecond laser cataract surgery are discussed in detail in the latter portion part of the article.

High Efficient THz Emission From Unbiased and Biased Semiconductor Nanowires Fabricated Using Electron Beam Lithography

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Balci, Soner; Czaplewski, David A.; Jung, Il Woong

Besides having perfect control on structural features, such as vertical alignment and uniform distribution by fabricating the wires via e-beam lithography and etching process, we also investigated the THz emission from these fabricated nanowires when they are applied DC bias voltage. To be able to apply a voltage bias, an interdigitated gold (Au) electrode was patterned on the high-quality InGaAs epilayer grown on InP substrate bymolecular beam epitaxy. Afterwards, perfect vertically aligned and uniformly distributed nanowires were fabricated in between the electrodes of this interdigitated pattern so that we could apply voltage bias to improve the THz emission. As amore » result, we achieved enhancement in the emitted THz radiation by ~four times, about 12 dB increase in power ratio at 0.25 THz with a DC biased electric field compared with unbiased NWs.« less

Femtosecond electron diffraction and spectroscopic studies of a solid state organic chemical reaction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jean-Ruel, Hubert

Photochromic diarylethene molecules are excellent model systems for studying electrocyclic reactions, in addition to having important technological applications in optoelectronics. The photoinduced ring-closing reaction in a crystalline photochromic diarylethene derivative was fully resolved using the complementary techniques of transient absorption spectroscopy and femtosecond electron crystallography. These studies are detailed in this thesis, together with the associated technical developments which enabled them. Importantly, the time-resolved crystallographic investigation reported here represents a highly significant proof-of-principle experiment. It constitutes the first study directly probing the molecular structural changes associated with an organic chemical reaction with sub-picosecond temporal and atomic spatial resolution---to follow the primary motions directing chemistry. In terms of technological development, the most important advance reported is the implementation of a radio frequency rebunching system capable of producing femtosecond electron pulses of exceptional brightness. The temporal resolution of this newly developed electron source was fully characterized using laser ponderomotive scattering, confirming a 435 +/- 75 fs instrument response time with 0.20 pC bunches. The ultrafast spectroscopic and crystallographic measurements were both achieved by exploiting the photoreversibility of diarylethene. The transient absorption study was first performed, after developing a novel robust acquisition scheme for thermally irreversible reactions in the solid state. It revealed the formation of an open-ring excited state intermediate, following photoexcitation of the open-ring isomer with an ultraviolet laser pulse, with a time constant of approximately 200 fs. The actual ring closing was found to occur from this intermediate with a time constant of 5.3 +/- 0.3 ps. The femtosecond diffraction measurements were then performed using multiple crystal

All-Solid-State 2.45-to-2.78-THz Source

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mehdi, Imran; Chattopadhyay, Goutam; Schlecht, Erich T.; Lin, Robert H.; Sin, Seith; Peralta, Alejandro; Lee, Choonsup; Gill, John J.; Pearson, John C.; Goldsmith, Paul F.;

Performance-Enhanced Bolometric Terahertz Detectors Based on V2O5 for 15 to 30 THz

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sumesh, M. A.; Karanth, S. P.; Thomas, Beno; Rao, G. M.; Viswanathan, M.; Chakraborty, P.; Rao, G. N.

2017-02-01

Terahertz (THz) radiation perception using uncooled detectors are gaining importance due to the increasing demands in the areas of military, space, and industrial, medical, and surveillance applications. In spite of the efforts of researchers to fill the THz gap, there exists a need for detectors in the range between 15 THz and 30 THz. In this paper, we discuss the development of bolometric detectors whose performance is enhanced by an optical immersion technique and their characterization in the aforesaid range of frequencies. These detectors are characterized by high specific detectivity ( D*) of 1.28 × 109 cmHz1/2 W-1 and high radiometric resolution (noise-equivalent temperature difference = 26 mK) and are fast enough for bolometric detectors (time constant = 1.7 ms), which make them suitable for spectroscopic and imaging applications.

Sharp Absorption Peaks in THz Spectra Valuable for Crystal Quality Evaluation of Middle Molecular Weight Pharmaceuticals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sasaki, Tetsuo; Sakamoto, Tomoaki; Otsuka, Makoto

2018-05-01

Middle molecular weight (MMW) pharmaceuticals (MW 400 4000) are attracting attention for their possible use in new medications. Sharp absorption peaks were observed in MMW pharmaceuticals at low temperatures by measuring with a high-resolution terahertz (THz) spectrometer. As examples, high-resolution THz spectra for amoxicillin trihydrate, atorvastatin calcium trihydrate, probucol, and α,β,γ,δ-tetrakis(1-methylpyridinium-4-yl)porphyrin p-toluenesulfonate (TMPyP) were obtained at 10 K. Typically observed as peaks with full width at half-height (FWHM) values as low as 5.639 GHz at 0.96492 THz in amoxicillin trihydrate and 8.857 GHz at 1.07974 THz for probucol, many sharp peaks of MMW pharmaceuticals could be observed. Such narrow absorption peaks enable evaluation of the crystal quality of MMW pharmaceuticals and afford sensitive detection of impurities.

Recent progress in synchrotron-based frequency-domain Fourier-transform THz-EPR.

PubMed

Nehrkorn, Joscha; Holldack, Karsten; Bittl, Robert; Schnegg, Alexander

2017-07-01

We describe frequency-domain Fourier-transform THz-EPR as a method to assign spin-coupling parameters of high-spin (S>1/2) systems with very large zero-field splittings. The instrumental foundations of synchrotron-based FD-FT THz-EPR are presented, alongside with a discussion of frequency-domain EPR simulation routines. The capabilities of this approach is demonstrated for selected mono- and multinuclear HS systems. Finally, we discuss remaining challenges and give an outlook on the future prospects of the technique. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Human cadaver retina model for retinal heating during corneal surgery with a femtosecond laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Hui; Fan, Zhongwei; Yun, Jin; Zhao, Tianzhuo; Yan, Ying; Kurtz, Ron M.; Juhasz, Tibor

2014-02-01

Femtosecond lasers are widely used in everyday clinical procedures to perform minimally invasive corneal refractive surgery. The intralase femtosecond laser (AMO Corp. Santa Ana, CA) is a common example of such a laser. In the present study a numerical simulation was developed to quantify the temperature rise in the retina during femtosecond intracorneal surgery. Also, ex-vivo retinal heating due to laser irradiation was measured with an infrared thermal camera (Fluke Corp. Everett, WA) as a validation of the simulation. A computer simulation was developed using Comsol Multiphysics to calculate the temperature rise in the cadaver retina during femtosecond laser corneal surgery. The simulation showed a temperature rise of less than 0.3 degrees for realistic pulse energies for the various repetition rates. Human cadaver retinas were irradiated with a 150 kHz Intralase femtosecond laser and the temperature rise was measured withan infrared thermal camera. Thermal camera measurements are in agreement with the simulation. During routine femtosecond laser corneal surgery with normal clinical parameters, the temperature rise is well beneath the threshold for retina damage. The simulation predictions are in agreement with thermal measurements providing a level of experimental validation.