Towards terahertz detection and calibration through spontaneous parametric down-conversion in the terahertz idler-frequency range generated by a 795 nm diode laser system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kornienko, Vladimir V.; Kitaeva, Galiya Kh.; Sedlmeir, Florian; Leuchs, Gerd; Schwefel, Harald G. L.

2018-05-01

We study a calibration scheme for terahertz wave nonlinear-optical detectors based on spontaneous parametric down-conversion. Contrary to the usual low wavelength pump in the green, we report here on the observation of spontaneous parametric down-conversion originating from an in-growth poled lithium niobate crystal pumped with a continuous wave 50 mW, 795 nm diode laser system, phase-matched to a terahertz frequency idler wave. Such a system is more compact and allows for longer poling periods as well as lower losses in the crystal. Filtering the pump radiation by a rubidium-87 vapor cell allowed the frequency-angular spectra to be obtained down to ˜0.5 THz or ˜1 nm shift from the pump radiation line. The presence of an amplified spontaneous emission "pedestal" in the diode laser radiation spectrum significantly hampers the observation of spontaneous parametric down-conversion spectra, in contrast to conventional narrowband gas lasers. Benefits of switching to longer pump wavelengths are pointed out, such as collinear optical-terahertz phase-matching in bulk crystals.

Narrowband thermal radiation from closed-end microcavities

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

Kohiyama, Asaka; Shimizu, Makoto; Iguchi, Fumitada

2015-10-07

High spectral selectivity of thermal radiation is important for achieving high-efficiency energy systems. In this study, intense, narrowband, and low directional absorption/radiation were observed in closed-end microcavity which is a conventional open-end microcavity covered by a semi-transparent thin metal film. The quality factor (Q factor) of optical absorption band strongly depended on the film electrical conductivity. Asymmetric and narrow absorption band with a Q factor of 25 at 1.28 μm was obtained for a 6-nm-thick Au film. Numerical simulations suggest that the formation of a fixed-end mode at the cavity aperture contributes to the narrowband optical absorption. The closed-end microcavity filledmore » with SiO{sub 2} exhibits intense and isotropic thermal radiation over a wide solid angle according to numerical simulation. The narrow and asymmetric absorption spectrum was experimentally confirmed in a model of closed-end microcavity.« less

Detailed observations of the source of terrestrial narrowband electromagnetic radiation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kurth, W. S.

1982-01-01

Detailed observations are presented of a region near the terrestrial plasmapause where narrowband electromagnetic radiation (previously called escaping nonthermal continuum radiation) is being generated. These observations show a direct correspondence between the narrowband radio emissions and electron cyclotron harmonic waves near the upper hybrid resonance frequency. In addition, electromagnetic radiation propagating in the Z-mode is observed in the source region which provides an extremely accurate determination of the electron plasma frequency and, hence, density profile of the source region. The data strongly suggest that electrostatic waves and not Cerenkov radiation are the source of the banded radio emissions and define the coupling which must be described by any viable theory.

Terahertz plasmonic laser radiating in an ultra-narrow beam

DOE PAGES

Wu, Chongzhao; Khanal, Sudeep; Reno, John L.; ...

2016-07-07

Plasmonic lasers (spasers) generate coherent surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) and could be realized at subwavelength dimensions in metallic cavities for applications in nanoscale optics. Plasmonic cavities are also utilized for terahertz quantum-cascade lasers (QCLs), which are the brightest available solid-state sources of terahertz radiation. A long standing challenge for spasers that are utilized as nanoscale sources of radiation, is their poor coupling to the far-field radiation. Unlike conventional lasers that could produce directional beams, spasers have highly divergent radiation patterns due to their subwavelength apertures. Here, we theoretically and experimentally demonstrate a new technique for implementing distributed feedback (DFB) thatmore » is distinct from any other previously utilized DFB schemes for semiconductor lasers. The so-termed antenna-feedback scheme leads to single-mode operation in plasmonic lasers, couples the resonant SPP mode to a highly directional far-field radiation pattern, and integrates hybrid SPPs in surrounding medium into the operation of the DFB lasers. Experimentally, the antenna-feedback method, which does not require the phase matching to a well-defined effective index, is implemented for terahertz QCLs, and single-mode terahertz QCLs with a beam divergence as small as 4°×4° are demonstrated, which is the narrowest beam reported for any terahertz QCL to date. Moreover, in contrast to a negligible radiative field in conventional photonic band-edge lasers, in which the periodicity follows the integer multiple of half-wavelengths inside the active medium, antenna-feedback breaks this integer limit for the first time and enhances the radiative field of the lasing mode. Terahertz lasers with narrow-beam emission will find applications for integrated as well as standoff terahertz spectroscopy and sensing. Furthermore, the antenna-feedback scheme is generally applicable to any plasmonic laser with a Fabry–Perot cavity

A multimode terahertz-Orotron with the special Smith–Purcell radiation

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

Liu, Weihao, E-mail: liuwhao@ustc.edu.cn; Lu, Yalin; Wang, Lin

2016-05-02

We proposed and investigated a terahertz Orotron, which is based on the recently revealed special Smith–Purcell radiation. It overcomes the main obstacles of the traditional Orotron in the terahertz region—unreachable high starting-current-density and low radiation power. With the experimentally available electron beam and facilities, its average output power can reach hundreds of milliwatts and even several watts in terahertz region, which is many orders of magnitude higher than that of the traditional Orotron. Additionally, it can be controlled to operate in ether the first or the second order mode, and the radiation frequency can extend from 0.1 THz to 1more » THz. These remarkable advantages make it a promising terahertz source for practical applications.« less

Generation of high-power, tunable terahertz radiation from laser interaction with a relativistic electron beam

DOE PAGES

Zhang, Zhen; Yan, Lixin; Du, Yingchao; ...

2017-05-01

We propose a method based on the slice energy spread modulation to generate strong subpicosecond density bunching in high-intensity relativistic electron beams. A laser pulse with periodic intensity envelope is used to modulate the slice energy spread of the electron beam, which can then be converted into density modulation after a dispersive section. It is found that the double-horn slice energy distribution of the electron beam induced by the laser modulation is very effective to increase the density bunching. Since the modulation is performed on a relativistic electron beam, the process does not suffer from strong space charge force ormore » coupling between phase spaces, so that it is straightforward to preserve the beam quality for terahertz (THz) radiation and other applications. We show in both theory and simulations that the tunable radiation from the beam can cover the frequency range of 1 - 10 THz with high power and narrow-band spectra.« less

Enhanced coupling of terahertz radiation to cylindrical wire waveguides.

PubMed

Deibel, Jason A; Wang, Kanglin; Escarra, Matthew D; Mittleman, Daniel

2006-01-09

Wire waveguides have recently been shown to be valuable for transporting pulsed terahertz radiation. This technique relies on the use of a scattering mechanism for input coupling. A radially polarized surface wave is excited when a linearly polarized terahertz pulse is focused on the gap between the wire waveguide and another metal structure. We calculate the input coupling efficiency using a simulation based on the Finite Element Method (FEM). Additional FEM results indicate that enhanced coupling efficiency can be achieved through the use of a radially symmetric photoconductive antenna. Experimental results confirm that such an antenna can generate terahertz radiation which couples to the radial waveguide mode with greatly improved efficiency.

A terahertz-vibration to terahertz-radiation converter based on gold nanoobjects: a feasibility study.

PubMed

Moldosanov, Kamil; Postnikov, Andrei

2016-01-01

The need for practical and adaptable terahertz sources is apparent in the areas of application such as early cancer diagnostics, nondestructive inspection of pharmaceutical tablets, visualization of concealed objects. We outline the operation principle and suggest the design of a simple appliance for generating terahertz radiation by a system of nanoobjects - gold nanobars (GNBs) or nanorings (GNRs) - irradiated by microwaves. Our estimations confirm a feasibility of the idea that GNBs and GNRs irradiated by microwaves could become terahertz emitters with photon energies within the full width at half maximum of the longitudinal acoustic phononic DOS of gold (ca. 16-19 meV, i.e., 3.9-4.6 THz). A scheme of the terahertz radiation source is suggested based on the domestic microwave oven irradiating a substrate with multiple deposited GNBs or GNRs. The size of a nanoobject for optimal conversion is estimated to be approx. 3 nm (thickness) by approx. 100 nm (length of GNB, or along the GNR). This detailed prediction is open to experimental verification. An impact is expected onto further studies of interplay between atomic vibrations and electromagnetic waves in nanoobjects.

Narrow-band, slowly varying decimetric radiation from the dwarf M flare star YZ Canis Minoris

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lang, K. R.; Willson, R. F.

1986-01-01

Observations of slowly varying radiation from the dwarf M star YZ Canis Minoris with a maximum flux density of 20 mJy and narrow-band frequency structure at frequencies near 1465 MHz are presented. Possible explanations for this radiation are examined. Thermal gyroresonant radiation would require impossibly large coronal loops and magnetic field strengths. The narrow-band structure cannot be explained by continuum emission processes such as thermal bremsstrahlung, thermal gyroresonant radiation, or nonthermal gyrosynchrotron radiation. Coherent burst mechanisms seem to be required.

Invited Review Terahertz Transmission, Scattering, Reflection, and Absorption—the Interaction of THz Radiation with Soils

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lewis, R. A.

2017-07-01

Terahertz radiation has been proposed as a useful tool in the study of soils and related materials from such diverse perspectives as detection of non-metallic landmines to improving soil fertility by agricultural charcoals produced by pyrolysis of organic material. The main barrier to such applications is that soils are rather opaque at terahertz frequencies. In this article, the main findings to date on the interaction of terahertz radiation with soils are reviewed, organized around the four phenomena of terahertz: transmission, scattering, reflection, and absorption. Terahertz transmission through soils is generally low and decreases with frequency. Terahertz scattering is evident in many THz-soil interactions, as the wavelength of the radiation is of the order of the particle size. Terahertz reflection is important to communications as these develop from the GHz into the THz band. Terahertz absorption on diluted soil samples has been demonstrated to be effective in identifying soil constituents, such as aromatic compounds, and soil contaminants, such as pesticides.

Generation of coherent terahertz radiation in ultrafast laser-gas interactionsa)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Ki-Yong

2009-05-01

The generation of intense terahertz radiation in ultrafast laser-gas interactions is studied on a basis of transient electron current model. When an ultrashort pulse laser's fundamental and its second harmonic fields are mixed to ionize a gas, a nonvanishing, directional photoelectron current can be produced, which simultaneously emits terahertz radiation in the far field. Here, the generation mechanism is examined with an analytic derivation and numerical simulations, in which tunneling ionization and subsequent electron motion in the combined laser field play a key role. In the simulations, three types of laser-gas interactions are considered: (i) mixing the fundamental and its second harmonic fields, (ii) mixing nonharmonic, two-color fields, and (iii) focusing single-color, few-cycle pulses. In these interactions, terahertz generation and other nonlinear effects driven by the transient current are investigated. In particular, anticorrelation between terahertz and second (or third) harmonic generation is observed and analyzed.

Electro-optic crystal mosaics for the generation of terahertz radiation

DOEpatents

Carrig, Timothy J.; Taylor, Antoinette J.; Stewart, Kevin R.

1996-01-01

Apparatus for the generation of high energy terahertz radiation is presented and comprises laser means effective to produce subpicosecond optical pulses and a mosaic comprising a plurality of planar electro-optic crystals fastened together edge to edge in the form of a grid. The electro-optic crystals are in optical communication with the subpicosecond optical pulses, and behave as a single large electro-optic crystal, producing high energy terahertz radiation by way of optical rectification.

Coherent and tunable terahertz radiation from graphene surface plasmon polaritons excited by an electron beam

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

Liu, Shenggang, E-mail: liusg@uestc.edu.cn; Hu, Min; Chen, Xiaoxing

2014-05-19

Although surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) resonance in graphene can be tuned in the terahertz regime, transforming such SPPs into coherent terahertz radiation has not been achieved. Here, we propose a graphene-based coherent terahertz radiation source with greatly enhanced intensity. The radiation works at room temperature, it is tunable and can cover the whole terahertz regime. The radiation intensity generated with this method is 400 times stronger than that from SPPs at a conventional dielectric or semiconducting surface and is comparable to that from the most advanced photonics source such as a quantum cascade laser. The physical mechanism for this strongmore » radiation is presented. The phase diagrams defining the parameters range for the occurrence of radiation is also shown.« less

High-frequency response and the possibilities of frequency-tunable narrow-band terahertz amplification in resonant tunneling nanostructures

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

Kapaev, V. V., E-mail: kapaev@sci.lebedev.ru; Kopaev, Yu. V.; Savinov, S. A.

2013-03-15

The characteristics of the high-frequency response of single- and double-well resonant tunneling structures in a dc electric field are investigated on the basis of the numerical solution of a time-dependent Schroedinger equation with open boundary conditions. The frequency dependence of the real part of high frequency conductivity (high-frequency response) in In{sub 0.53}Ga{sub 0.47}As/AlAs/InP structures is analyzed in detail for various values of the dc voltage V{sub dc} in the negative differential resistance (NDR) region. It is shown that double-well three-barrier structures are promising for the design of terahertz-band oscillators. The presence of two resonant states with close energies in suchmore » structures leads to a resonant (in frequency) response whose frequency is determined by the energy difference between these levels and can be controlled by varying the parameters of the structure. It is shown that, in principle, such structures admit narrow-band amplification, tuning of the amplification frequency, and a fine control of the amplification (oscillation) frequency in a wide range of terahertz frequencies by varying a dc electric voltage applied to the structure. Starting from a certain width of the central intermediate barrier in double-well structures, one can observe a collapse of resonances, where the structure behaves like a single-well system. This phenomenon imposes a lower limit on the oscillation frequency in three-barrier resonant tunneling structures.« less

Electro-optic crystal mosaics for the generation of terahertz radiation

DOEpatents

Carrig, T.J.; Taylor, A.J.; Stewart, K.R.

1996-08-06

Apparatus for the generation of high energy terahertz radiation is presented and comprises laser means effective to produce subpicosecond optical pulses and a mosaic comprising a plurality of planar electro-optic crystals fastened together edge to edge in the form of a grid. The electro-optic crystals are in optical communication with the subpicosecond optical pulses, and behave as a single large electro-optic crystal, producing high energy terahertz radiation by way of optical rectification. 5 figs.

Study of terahertz-radiation-induced DNA damage in human blood leukocytes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Angeluts, A. A.; Gapeyev, A. B.; Esaulkov, M. N.; Kosareva, O. G.; Matyunin, S. N.; Nazarov, M. M.; Pashovkin, T. N.; Solyankin, P. M.; Cherkasova, O. P.; Shkurinov, A. P.

2014-03-01

We have carried out the studies aimed at assessing the effect of terahertz radiation on DNA molecules in human blood leukocytes. Genotoxic testing of terahertz radiation was performed in three different oscillation regimes, the blood leukocytes from healthy donors being irradiated for 20 minutes with the mean intensity of 8 - 200 μW cm-2 within the frequency range of 0.1 - 6.5 THz. Using the comet assay it is shown that in the selected regimes such radiation does not induce a direct DNA damage in viable human blood leukocytes.

Narrow-band microwave radiation from a biased single-Cooper-pair transistor.

PubMed

Naaman, O; Aumentado, J

2007-06-01

We show that a single-Cooper-pair transistor (SCPT) electrometer emits narrow-band microwave radiation when biased in its subgap region. Photoexcitation of quasiparticle tunneling in a nearby SCPT is used to spectroscopically detect this radiation in a configuration that closely mimics a qubit-electrometer integrated circuit. We identify emission lines due to Josephson radiation and radiative transport processes in the electrometer and argue that a dissipative superconducting electrometer can severely disrupt the system it attempts to measure.

Amplifiers of free-space terahertz radiation

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

Kao, Tsung -Yu; Reno, John L.; Hu, Qing

Here, amplifiers of free-space radiation are quite useful, especially in spectral ranges where the radiation is weak and sensitive detectors are hard to come by. A preamplification of the said weak radiation signal will significantly boost the S/N ratio in remote sensing and imaging applications. This is especially true in the terahertz (THz) range where the radiation signal is often weak and sensitive detectors require the cooling of liquid helium. Although quantum cascade structures are promising for providing amplification in the terahertz band from 2 to 5 THz, a THz amplifier has been demonstrated in an integrated form, in whichmore » the source is in close proximity to the amplifier, which will not be suitable for the aforementioned applications. Here we demonstrate what we believe is a novel approach to achieve significant amplification of free-space THz radiation using an array of short-cavity, surface-emitting THz quantum cascade lasers operating marginally below the lasing threshold as a Fabry–Perot amplifier. This free-space “slow light” amplifier provides 7.5 dB(×5.6) overall gain at ~3.1 THz. The proposed devices are suitable for low-noise pre-amplifiers in heterodyne detection systems and for THz imaging systems. With the sub-wavelength pixel size of the array, the reflective amplifier can also be categorized as active metasurface, with the ability to amplify or absorb specific frequency components of the input THz signal.« less

Amplifiers of free-space terahertz radiation

DOE PAGES

Kao, Tsung -Yu; Reno, John L.; Hu, Qing

2017-07-20

Here, amplifiers of free-space radiation are quite useful, especially in spectral ranges where the radiation is weak and sensitive detectors are hard to come by. A preamplification of the said weak radiation signal will significantly boost the S/N ratio in remote sensing and imaging applications. This is especially true in the terahertz (THz) range where the radiation signal is often weak and sensitive detectors require the cooling of liquid helium. Although quantum cascade structures are promising for providing amplification in the terahertz band from 2 to 5 THz, a THz amplifier has been demonstrated in an integrated form, in whichmore » the source is in close proximity to the amplifier, which will not be suitable for the aforementioned applications. Here we demonstrate what we believe is a novel approach to achieve significant amplification of free-space THz radiation using an array of short-cavity, surface-emitting THz quantum cascade lasers operating marginally below the lasing threshold as a Fabry–Perot amplifier. This free-space “slow light” amplifier provides 7.5 dB(×5.6) overall gain at ~3.1 THz. The proposed devices are suitable for low-noise pre-amplifiers in heterodyne detection systems and for THz imaging systems. With the sub-wavelength pixel size of the array, the reflective amplifier can also be categorized as active metasurface, with the ability to amplify or absorb specific frequency components of the input THz signal.« less

Quadrupole radiation from terahertz dipole antennas.

PubMed

Rudd, J V; Johnson, J L; Mittleman, D M

2000-10-15

We report what is to our knowledge the first detailed investigation of the polarization state of radiation from lens-coupled terahertz dipole antennas. The radiation exhibits a weak but measurable component that is polarized orthogonally to the orientation of the emitter dipole. The angular radiation pattern of this cross-polarized emission reveals that it is quadrupolar, rather than dipolar, in nature. One can understand this result by taking into account the photocurrent flowing in the strip lines that feed the dipole antenna. A Fresnel-Kirchhoff scalar diffraction calculation is used for calculating the frequency-dependent angular distribution of the radiation pattern, providing satisfactory agreement with the measurements.

Nondestructive monitoring of aircraft composites using terahertz radiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Balbekin, Nikolay S.; Novoselov, Evgenii V.; Pavlov, Pavel V.; Bespalov, Victor G.; Petrov, Nikolay V.

2015-03-01

In this paper we consider using the terahertz (THz) time domain spectroscopy (TDS) for non destructive testing and determining the chemical composition of the vanes and rotor-blade spars. A versatile terahertz spectrometer for reflection and transmission has been used for experiments. We consider the features of measured terahertz signal in temporal and spectral domains during propagation through and reflecting from various defects in investigated objects, such as voids and foliation. We discuss requirements are applicable to the setup and are necessary to produce an image of these defects, such as signal-to-noise ratio and a method for registration THz radiation. Obtained results indicated the prospects of the THz TDS method for the inspection of defects and determination of the particularities of chemical composition of aircraft parts.

Investigation of the Frohlich hypothesis with high intensity terahertz radiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Weightman, Peter

2014-03-01

This article provides an update to recent reviews of the Frohlich hypothesis that biological organisation is facilitated by the creation of coherent excited states driven by a flow of free energy provided by metabolic processes and mediated by molecular motions in the terahertz range. Sources of intense terahertz radiation have the potential to test this hypothesis since if it is true the growth and development of sensitive systems such as stem cells should be influenced by irradiation with intense terahertz radiation. A brief survey of recent work shows that it is not yet possible to make an assessment of the validity of the Frohlich hypothesis. Under some conditions a variety of cell types respond to irradiation with intense THz radiation in ways that involve changes in the activity of their DNA. In other experiments very intense and prolonged THz radiation has no measureable effect on the behavior of very sensitive systems such as stem cells. The wide variation in experimental conditions makes it impossible to draw any conclusions as to characteristics of THz radiation that will induce a response in living cells. It is possible that in environments suitable for their maintenance and growth cells are capable of compensating for any effects caused by exposure to THz radiation up to some currently unknown level of THz peak power.

Coherent Terahertz Radiation from Multiple Electron Beams Excitation within a Plasmonic Crystal-like structure.

PubMed

Zhang, Yaxin; Zhou, Yucong; Gang, Yin; Jiang, Guili; Yang, Ziqiang

2017-01-23

Coherent terahertz radiation from multiple electron beams excitation within a plasmonic crystal-like structure (a three-dimensional holes array) which is composed of multiple stacked layers with 3 × 3 subwavelength holes array has been proposed in this paper. It has been found that in the structure the electromagnetic fields in each hole can be coupled with one another to construct a composite mode with strong field intensity. Therefore, the multiple electron beams injection can excite and efficiently interact with such mode. Meanwhile, the coupling among the electron beams is taken place during the interaction so that a very strong coherent terahertz radiation with high electron conversion efficiency can be generated. Furthermore, due to the coupling, the starting current density of this mechanism is much lower than that of traditional electron beam-driven terahertz sources. This multi-beam radiation system may provide a favorable way to combine photonics structure with electronics excitation to generate middle, high power terahertz radiation.

Coherent Terahertz Radiation from Multiple Electron Beams Excitation within a Plasmonic Crystal-like structure

PubMed Central

Zhang, Yaxin; Zhou, Yucong; Gang, Yin; Jiang, Guili; Yang, Ziqiang

2017-01-01

Coherent terahertz radiation from multiple electron beams excitation within a plasmonic crystal-like structure (a three-dimensional holes array) which is composed of multiple stacked layers with 3 × 3 subwavelength holes array has been proposed in this paper. It has been found that in the structure the electromagnetic fields in each hole can be coupled with one another to construct a composite mode with strong field intensity. Therefore, the multiple electron beams injection can excite and efficiently interact with such mode. Meanwhile, the coupling among the electron beams is taken place during the interaction so that a very strong coherent terahertz radiation with high electron conversion efficiency can be generated. Furthermore, due to the coupling, the starting current density of this mechanism is much lower than that of traditional electron beam-driven terahertz sources. This multi-beam radiation system may provide a favorable way to combine photonics structure with electronics excitation to generate middle, high power terahertz radiation. PMID:28112234

Monolithic Superconducting Emitter of Tunable Circularly Polarized Terahertz Radiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Elarabi, A.; Yoshioka, Y.; Tsujimoto, M.; Kakeya, I.

2017-12-01

We propose an approach to controlling the polarization of terahertz (THz) radiation from intrinsic Josephson-junction stacks in a single crystalline high-temperature superconductor Bi2Sr2CaCu2O8 . Monolithic control of the surface high-frequency current distributions in the truncated square mesa structure allows us to modulate the polarization of the emitted terahertz wave as a result of two orthogonal fundamental modes excited inside the mesa. Highly polarized circular terahertz waves with a degree of circular polarization of more than 99% can be generated using an electrically controlled method. The intuitive results obtained from the numerical simulation based on the conventional antenna theory are consistent with the observed emission characteristics.

Direct detector for terahertz radiation

DOEpatents

Wanke, Michael C [Albuquerque, NM; Lee, Mark [Albuquerque, NM; Shaner, Eric A [Albuquerque, NM; Allen, S James [Santa Barbara, CA

2008-09-02

A direct detector for terahertz radiation comprises a grating-gated field-effect transistor with one or more quantum wells that provide a two-dimensional electron gas in the channel region. The grating gate can be a split-grating gate having at least one finger that can be individually biased. Biasing an individual finger of the split-grating gate to near pinch-off greatly increases the detector's resonant response magnitude over prior QW FET detectors while maintaining frequency selectivity. The split-grating-gated QW FET shows a tunable resonant plasmon response to FIR radiation that makes possible an electrically sweepable spectrometer-on-a-chip with no moving mechanical optical parts. Further, the narrow spectral response and signal-to-noise are adequate for use of the split-grating-gated QW FET in a passive, multispectral terahertz imaging system. The detector can be operated in a photoconductive or a photovoltaic mode. Other embodiments include uniform front and back gates to independently vary the carrier densities in the channel region, a thinned substrate to increase bolometric responsivity, and a resistive shunt to connect the fingers of the grating gate in parallel and provide a uniform gate-channel voltage along the length of the channel to increase the responsivity and improve the spectral resolution.

Laser beat wave excitation of terahertz radiation in a plasma slab

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

Chauhan, Santosh; Parashar, Jetendra, E-mail: j.p.parashar@gmail.com

2014-10-15

Terahertz (THz) radiation generation by nonlinear mixing of lasers, obliquely incident on a plasma slab is investigated. Two cases are considered: (i) electron density profile is parabolic but density peak is below the critical density corresponding to the beat frequency, (ii) plasma boundaries are sharp and density is uniform. In both cases, nonlinearity arises through the ponderomotive force that gives rise to electron drift at the beat frequency. In the case of inhomogeneous plasma, non zero curl of the nonlinear current density gives rise to electromagnetic THz generation. In case of uniform plasma, the sharp density variation at the plasmamore » boundaries leads to radiation generation. In a slab width of less than a terahertz wavelength, plasma density one fourth of terahertz critical density, laser intensities ∼10{sup 17 }W/cm{sup 2} at 1 μm, one obtains the THz intensity ∼1 GW/cm{sup 2} at 3 THz radiation frequency.« less

Electrical Versus Optical: Comparing Methods for Detecting Terahertz Radiation Using Neon Lamps

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Slocombe, L. L.; Lewis, R. A.

2018-05-01

Terahertz radiation impinging on a lit neon tube causes additional ionization of the encapsulated gas. As a result, the electrical current flowing between the electrodes increases and the glow discharge in the tube brightens. These dual phenomena suggest two distinct modes of terahertz sensing. The electrical mode simply involves measuring the electrical current. The optical mode involves monitoring the brightness of the weakly ionized plasma glow discharge. Here, we directly compare the two detection modes under identical experimental conditions. We measure 0.1-THz radiation modulated at frequencies in the range 0.1-10 kHz, for lamp currents in the range 1-10 mA. We find that electrical detection provides a superior signal-to-noise ratio while optical detection has a faster response. Either method serves as the basis of a compact, robust, and inexpensive room-temperature detector of terahertz radiation.

Damage in a Thin Metal Film by High-Power Terahertz Radiation.

PubMed

Agranat, M B; Chefonov, O V; Ovchinnikov, A V; Ashitkov, S I; Fortov, V E; Kondratenko, P S

2018-02-23

We report on the experimental observation of high-power terahertz-radiation-induced damage in a thin aluminum film with a thickness less than a terahertz skin depth. Damage in a thin metal film produced by a single terahertz pulse is observed for the first time. The damage mechanism induced by a single terahertz pulse could be attributed to thermal expansion of the film causing debonding of the film from the substrate, film cracking, and ablation. The damage pattern induced by multiple terahertz pulses at fluences below the damage threshold is quite different from that observed in single-pulse experiments. The observed damage pattern resembles an array of microcracks elongated perpendicular to the in-plane field direction. A mechanism related to microcracks' generation and based on a new phenomenon of electrostriction in thin metal films is proposed.

Damage in a Thin Metal Film by High-Power Terahertz Radiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Agranat, M. B.; Chefonov, O. V.; Ovchinnikov, A. V.; Ashitkov, S. I.; Fortov, V. E.; Kondratenko, P. S.

2018-02-01

We report on the experimental observation of high-power terahertz-radiation-induced damage in a thin aluminum film with a thickness less than a terahertz skin depth. Damage in a thin metal film produced by a single terahertz pulse is observed for the first time. The damage mechanism induced by a single terahertz pulse could be attributed to thermal expansion of the film causing debonding of the film from the substrate, film cracking, and ablation. The damage pattern induced by multiple terahertz pulses at fluences below the damage threshold is quite different from that observed in single-pulse experiments. The observed damage pattern resembles an array of microcracks elongated perpendicular to the in-plane field direction. A mechanism related to microcracks' generation and based on a new phenomenon of electrostriction in thin metal films is proposed.

The role of optical rectification in the generation of terahertz radiation from GaBiAs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Radhanpura, K.; Hargreaves, S.; Lewis, R. A.; Henini, M.

2009-06-01

We report on a detailed study of the emission of terahertz-frequency electromagnetic radiation from layers of GaBiyAs1-y (0≤y<0.04) grown by molecular beam epitaxy on (311)B and (001) GaAs substrates. We measure two orthogonally polarized components of the terahertz radiation emitted under excitation by ultrashort near-infrared laser pulses in both transmission and reflection geometries as a function of the crystal rotation about its surface normal as well as the effect of in-plane magnetic field and pump fluence on the terahertz emission. We conclude that the principal mechanism for terahertz generation is via optical rectification rather than transient currents.

Intense terahertz radiation from relativistic laser–plasma interactions

DOE PAGES

Liao, G. Q.; Li, Y. T.; Li, C.; ...

2016-11-02

The development of tabletop intense terahertz (THz) radiation sources is extremely important for THz science and applications. This study presents our measurements of intense THz radiation from relativistic laser–plasma interactions under different experimental conditions. Several THz generation mechanisms have been proposed and investigated, including coherent transition radiation (CTR) emitted by fast electrons from the target rear surface, transient current radiation at the front of the target, and mode conversion from electron plasma waves (EPWs) to THz waves. Finally, the results indicate that relativistic laser plasma is a promising driver of intense THz radiation sources.

A coherent detection technique via optically biased field for broadband terahertz radiation.

PubMed

Du, Hai-Wei; Dong, Jia-Meng; Liu, Yi; Shi, Chang-Cheng; Wu, Jing-Wei; Peng, Xiao-Yu

2017-09-01

We demonstrate theoretically and experimentally a coherent terahertz detection technique based on an optically biased field functioning as a local oscillator and a second harmonic induced by the terahertz electric field in the air sensor working in free space. After optimizing the polarization angle and the energy of the probe pulse, and filling the system with dry nitrogen, the terahertz radiation generated from a two-color-femtosecond-laser-pulses induced plasma filament is measured by this technique with a bandwidth of 0.1-10 THz and a signal-to-noise ratio of 48 dB. Our technique provides an alternative simple method for coherent broadband terahertz detection.

Generation of phase-locked and tunable continuous-wave radiation in the terahertz regime.

PubMed

Quraishi, Qudsia; Griebel, Martin; Kleine-Ostmann, Thomas; Bratschitsch, Rudolf

2005-12-01

Broadly tunable phase-stable single-frequency terahertz radiation is generated with an optical heterodyne photomixer. The photomixer is excited by two near-infrared CW diode lasers that are phase locked to the stabilized optical frequency comb of a femtosecond titanium:sapphire laser. The terahertz radiation emitted by the photomixer is downconverted into RF frequencies with a waveguide harmonic mixer and measurement-limited linewidths at the Hertz level are demonstrated.

Terahertz radiation induced chaotic electron transport in semiconductor superlattices with a tilted magnetic field.

PubMed

Wang, C; Wang, F; Cao, J C

2014-09-01

Chaotic electron transport in semiconductor superlattice induced by terahertz electric field that is superimposed on a dc electric field along the superlattice axis are studied using the semiclassical motion equations including the effect of dissipation. A magnetic field that is tilted relative to the superlattice axis is also applied to the system. Numerical simulation shows that electrons in superlattice miniband exhibit complicate nonlinear oscillating modes with the influence of terahertz radiation. Transitions between frequency-locking and chaos via pattern forming bifurcations are observed with the varying of terahertz amplitude. It is found that the chaotic regions gradually contract as the dissipation increases. We attribute the appearance of complicate nonlinear oscillation in superlattice to the interaction between terahertz radiation and internal cooperative oscillating mode relative to Bloch oscillation and cyclotron oscillation.

Terahertz metamaterials

DOEpatents

Peralta, Xomalin Guaiuli; Brener, Igal; O'Hara, John; Azad, Abul; Smirnova, Evgenya; Williams, John D.; Averitt, Richard D.

2014-08-12

Terahertz metamaterials comprise a periodic array of resonator elements disposed on a dielectric substrate or thin membrane, wherein the resonator elements have a structure that provides a tunable magnetic permeability or a tunable electric permittivity for incident electromagnetic radiation at a frequency greater than about 100 GHz and the periodic array has a lattice constant that is smaller than the wavelength of the incident electromagnetic radiation. Microfabricated metamaterials exhibit lower losses and can be assembled into three-dimensional structures that enable full coupling of incident electromagnetic terahertz radiation in two or three orthogonal directions. Furthermore, polarization sensitive and insensitive metamaterials at terahertz frequencies can enable new devices and applications.

Generation of high-power terahertz radiation by nonlinear photon-assisted tunneling transport in plasmonic metamaterials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Pai-Yen; Salas, Rodolfo; Farhat, Mohamed

2017-12-01

We propose an optoelectronic terahertz oscillator based on the quantum tunneling effect in a plasmonic metamaterial, utilizing a nanostructured metal-insulator-metal (MIM) tunneling junction. The collective resonant response of meta-atoms can achieve >90% optical absorption and strongly localized optical fields within the MIM plasmonic nanojunction. By properly tailoring the radiation aperture, the nonlinear quantum conductance induced by the metamaterial-enhanced, photon-assisted tunneling may produce miliwatt-level terahertz radiation through the optical beating (or heterodyne down conversion) of two lasers with a slight frequency offset. We envisage that the interplay between photon-assisted tunneling and plasmon coupling within the MIM metamaterial/diode may substantially enhance the modulated terahertz photocurrent, and may therefore realize a practical high-power, room-temperature source in applications of terahertz electronics.

Investigation of terahertz radiation influence on rat glial cells

PubMed Central

Borovkova, Mariia; Serebriakova, Maria; Fedorov, Viacheslav; Sedykh, Egor; Vaks, Vladimir; Lichutin, Alexander; Salnikova, Alina; Khodzitsky, Mikhail

2016-01-01

We studied an influence of continuous terahertz (THz) radiation (0.12 – 0.18 THz, average power density of 3.2 mW/cm2) on a rat glial cell line. A dose-dependent cytotoxic effect of THz radiation is demonstrated. After 1 minute of THz radiation exposure a relative number of apoptotic cells increased in 1.5 times, after 3 minutes it doubled. This result confirms the concept of biological hazard of intense THz radiation. Diagnostic applications of THz radiation can be restricted by the radiation power density and exposure time. PMID:28101417

6.2-GHz modulated terahertz light detection using fast terahertz quantum well photodetectors.

PubMed

Li, Hua; Wan, Wen-Jian; Tan, Zhi-Yong; Fu, Zhang-Long; Wang, Hai-Xia; Zhou, Tao; Li, Zi-Ping; Wang, Chang; Guo, Xu-Guang; Cao, Jun-Cheng

2017-06-14

The fast detection of terahertz radiation is of great importance for various applications such as fast imaging, high speed communications, and spectroscopy. Most commercial products capable of sensitively responding the terahertz radiation are thermal detectors, i.e., pyroelectric sensors and bolometers. This class of terahertz detectors is normally characterized by low modulation frequency (dozens or hundreds of Hz). Here we demonstrate the first fast semiconductor-based terahertz quantum well photodetectors by carefully designing the device structure and microwave transmission line for high frequency signal extraction. Modulation response bandwidth of gigahertz level is obtained. As an example, the 6.2-GHz modulated terahertz light emitted from a Fabry-Pérot terahertz quantum cascade laser is successfully detected using the fast terahertz quantum well photodetector. In addition to the fast terahertz detection, the technique presented in this work can also be used for optically characterizing the frequency stability of terahertz quantum cascade lasers, heterodyne detections and photomixing applications.

Absorber for terahertz radiation management

DOEpatents

Biallas, George Herman; Apeldoorn, Cornelis; Williams, Gwyn P.; Benson, Stephen V.; Shinn, Michelle D.; Heckman, John D.

2015-12-08

A method and apparatus for minimizing the degradation of power in a free electron laser (FEL) generating terahertz (THz) radiation. The method includes inserting an absorber ring in the FEL beam path for absorbing any irregular THz radiation and thus minimizes the degradation of downstream optics and the resulting degradation of the FEL output power. The absorber ring includes an upstream side, a downstream side, and a plurality of wedges spaced radially around the absorber ring. The wedges form a scallop-like feature on the innermost edges of the absorber ring that acts as an apodizer, stopping diffractive focusing of the THz radiation that is not intercepted by the absorber. Spacing between the scallop-like features and the shape of the features approximates the Bartlett apodization function. The absorber ring provides a smooth intensity distribution, rather than one that is peaked on-center, thereby eliminating minor distortion downstream of the absorber.

Tunable terahertz generation in the picosecond regime from the stimulated polariton scattering in a LiNbO₃ crystal.

PubMed

Warrier, Aravindan M; Li, Ran; Lin, Jipeng; Lee, Andrew J; Pask, Helen M; Spence, David J

2016-09-15

We demonstrate narrowband tunable terahertz generation from a picosecond LiNbO₃ polariton laser, pumped by a CW mode-locked Nd:YVO₄ picosecond laser. We generated up to 5.4 μW of terahertz output in untuned mode. We tuned the terahertz output, using etalons in the cavity, from 0.51 to 2.12 THz. Terahertz output powers of 3.7 μW and 2.4 μW were achieved at terahertz frequencies of 1.6 THz and 0.9 THz, respectively.

Generating high-power short terahertz electromagnetic pulses with a multifoil radiator.

PubMed

Vinokurov, Nikolay A; Jeong, Young Uk

2013-02-08

We describe a multifoil cone radiator capable of generating high-field short terahertz pulses using short electron bunches. Round flat conducting foil plates with successively decreasing radii are stacked, forming a truncated cone with the z axis. The gaps between the foil plates are equal and filled with some dielectric (or vacuum). A short relativistic electron bunch propagates along the z axis. At sufficiently high particle energy, the energy losses and multiple scattering do not change the bunch shape significantly. When passing by each gap between the foil plates, the electron bunch emits some energy into the gap. Then, the radiation pulses propagate radially outward. For transverse electromagnetic waves with a longitudinal (along the z axis) electric field and an azimuthal magnetic field, there is no dispersion in these radial lines; therefore, the radiation pulses conserve their shapes (time dependence). At the outer surface of the cone, we have synchronous circular radiators. Their radiation field forms a conical wave. Ultrashort terahertz pulses with gigawatt-level peak power can be generated with this device.

Simulation study of terahertz radiation generation by circularly polarized laser pulses propagating in axially magnetized plasma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saroch, Akanksha; Jha, Pallavi

2017-12-01

This paper deals with a two-dimensional simulation study of terahertz radiation emission in the wake of circularly polarized laser pulses propagating in uniformly magnetized plasma, using the XOOPIC code. The external magnetic field is applied along the direction of propagation of the laser pulse. It is seen that linearly polarized terahertz radiation is emitted off-axis, along the propagation direction, in plasma. This emitted radiation is also seen to be transmitted in vacuum. Simulation studies reveal that no such radiation is generated on-axis for the given configuration.

[Use of terahertz electromagnetic radiation at nitric oxide frequencies for the correction of thyroid functional state during stress].

PubMed

Kirichuk, V F; Tsymbal, A A

2010-01-01

The influence of terahertz electromagnetic radiation at nitric oxide frequencies (150.176-150.664 Ghz) on the functional activity of rat thyroid gland subjected to acute immobilization stress has been studied. It is shown that terahertz radiation totally normalizes thyroid activity in stressed animals within 30 min after application.

Coherent Terahertz Smith Purcell radiation from beam bunching

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shi, Zongjun; Yang, Ziqiang; Liang, Zheng; Lan, Feng; Liu, Wenxin; Gao, Xi; Li, D.

2007-08-01

This paper presents a possible method to produce beam bunching and obtain coherent Terahertz (THz) Smith-Purcell (SP) radiation. A model of two-section rectangular grating is proposed. In the first section with a flat conducting roof, a continuous beam is bunched by using an 88.5 GHz input signal. In the second section without metal roof, the coherent THz SP radiation is stimulated by the bunched beam interacting with the grating. The particle-in-cell (PIC) simulations show that the beam is bunched at the downstream of the first section. The strongest radiation is observed at 120° with the frequency of 266.5 GHz in the second section.

Polarization-maintaining reflection-mode THz time-domain spectroscopy of a polyimide based ultra-thin narrow-band metamaterial absorber.

PubMed

Astorino, Maria Denise; Fastampa, Renato; Frezza, Fabrizio; Maiolo, Luca; Marrani, Marco; Missori, Mauro; Muzi, Marco; Tedeschi, Nicola; Veroli, Andrea

2018-01-31

This paper reports the design, the microfabrication and the experimental characterization of an ultra-thin narrow-band metamaterial absorber at terahertz frequencies. The metamaterial device is composed of a highly flexible polyimide spacer included between a top electric ring resonator with a four-fold rotational symmetry and a bottom ground plane that avoids misalignment problems. Its performance has been experimentally demonstrated by a custom polarization-maintaining reflection-mode terahertz time-domain spectroscopy system properly designed in order to reach a collimated configuration of the terahertz beam. The dependence of the spectral characteristics of this metamaterial absorber has been evaluated on the azimuthal angle under oblique incidence. The obtained absorbance levels are comprised between 67% and 74% at 1.092 THz and the polarization insensitivity has been verified in transverse electric polarization. This offers potential prospects in terahertz imaging, in terahertz stealth technology, in substance identification, and in non-planar applications. The proposed compact experimental set-up can be applied to investigate arbitrary polarization-sensitive terahertz devices under oblique incidence, allowing for a wide reproducibility of the measurements.

Terahertz radiation source using a high-power industrial electron linear accelerator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kalkal, Yashvir; Kumar, Vinit

2017-04-01

High-power (˜ 100 kW) industrial electron linear accelerators (linacs) are used for irradiations, e.g., for pasteurization of food products, disinfection of medical waste, etc. We propose that high-power electron beam from such an industrial linac can first pass through an undulator to generate useful terahertz (THz) radiation, and the spent electron beam coming out of the undulator can still be used for the intended industrial applications. This will enhance the utilization of a high-power industrial linac. We have performed calculation of spontaneous emission in the undulator to show that for typical parameters, continuous terahertz radiation having power of the order of μW can be produced, which may be useful for many scientific applications such as multispectral imaging of biological samples, chemical samples etc.

Terahertz-radiation generation and detection in low-temperature-grown GaAs epitaxial films on GaAs (100) and (111)A substrates

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

Galiev, G. B.; Pushkarev, S. S., E-mail: s-s-e-r-p@mail.ru; Buriakov, A. M.

The efficiency of the generation and detection of terahertz radiation in the range up to 3 THz by LT-GaAs films containing equidistant Si doping δ layers and grown by molecular beam epitaxy on GaAs (100) and (111)Ga substrates is studied by terahertz spectroscopy. Microstrip photoconductive antennas are fabricated on the film surface. Terahertz radiation is generated by exposure of the antenna gap to femtosecond optical laser pulses. It is shown that the intensity of terahertz radiation from the photoconductive antenna on LT-GaAs/GaAs (111)Ga is twice as large as the intensity of a similar antenna on LT-GaAs/GaAs(100) and the sensitivity ofmore » the antenna on LT-GaAs/GaAs (111)Ga as a terahertz-radiation detector exceeds that of the antenna on LT-GaAs/GaAs(100) by a factor of 1.4.« less

Metal wires for terahertz wave guiding.

PubMed

Wang, Kanglin; Mittleman, Daniel M

2004-11-18

Sources and systems for far-infrared or terahertz (1 THz = 10(12) Hz) radiation have received extensive attention in recent years, with applications in sensing, imaging and spectroscopy. Terahertz radiation bridges the gap between the microwave and optical regimes, and offers significant scientific and technological potential in many fields. However, waveguiding in this intermediate spectral region still remains a challenge. Neither conventional metal waveguides for microwave radiation, nor dielectric fibres for visible and near-infrared radiation can be used to guide terahertz waves over a long distance, owing to the high loss from the finite conductivity of metals or the high absorption coefficient of dielectric materials in this spectral range. Furthermore, the extensive use of broadband pulses in the terahertz regime imposes an additional constraint of low dispersion, which is necessary for compatibility with spectroscopic applications. Here we show how a simple waveguide, namely a bare metal wire, can be used to transport terahertz pulses with virtually no dispersion, low attenuation, and with remarkable structural simplicity. As an example of this new waveguiding structure, we demonstrate an endoscope for terahertz pulses.

Non-thermal effects of terahertz radiation on gene expression in mouse stem cells

PubMed Central

Alexandrov, Boian S.; Rasmussen, Kim Ø.; Bishop, Alan R.; Usheva, Anny; Alexandrov, Ludmil B.; Chong, Shou; Dagon, Yossi; Booshehri, Layla G.; Mielke, Charles H.; Phipps, M. Lisa; Martinez, Jennifer S.; Chen, Hou-Tong; Rodriguez, George

2011-01-01

Abstract In recent years, terahertz radiation sources are increasingly being exploited in military and civil applications. However, only a few studies have so far been conducted to examine the biological effects associated with terahertz radiation. In this study, we evaluated the cellular response of mesenchymal mouse stem cells exposed to THz radiation. We apply low-power radiation from both a pulsed broad-band (centered at 10 THz) source and from a CW laser (2.52 THz) source. Modeling, empirical characterization, and monitoring techniques were applied to minimize the impact of radiation-induced increases in temperature. qRT-PCR was used to evaluate changes in the transcriptional activity of selected hyperthermic genes. We found that temperature increases were minimal, and that the differential expression of the investigated heat shock proteins (HSP105, HSP90, and CPR) was unaffected, while the expression of certain other genes (Adiponectin, GLUT4, and PPARG) showed clear effects of the THz irradiation after prolonged, broad-band exposure. PMID:21991556

Broadband tunable electromagnetically induced transparency analogue metamaterials based on graphene in terahertz band

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Yue; Leng, Yanbing; Wang, Li; Dong, Lianhe; Liu, Shunrui; Wang, Jun; Sun, Yanjun

2018-06-01

Most of the actively controlled electromagnetically induced transparency analogue (EIT-like) metamaterials were implemented with narrowband modulations. In this paper, a broadband tunable EIT-like metamaterial based on graphene in the terahertz band is presented. It consists of a cut wire as the bright resonator and two couples of H-shaped resonators in mirror symmetry as the dark resonators. A broadband tunable property of transmission amplitude is realized by changing the Fermi level of graphene. Furthermore, the geometries of the metamaterial structure are optimized to achieve the ideal curve through the simulation. Such EIT-like metamaterials proposed here are promising candidates for designing active wide-band slow-light devices, wide-band terahertz active filters, and wide-band terahertz modulators.

Terahertz radiation by subpicosecond spin-polarized photocurrent originating from Dirac electrons in a Rashba-type polar semiconductor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kinoshita, Yuto; Kida, Noriaki; Miyamoto, Tatsuya; Kanou, Manabu; Sasagawa, Takao; Okamoto, Hiroshi

2018-04-01

The spin-splitting energy bands induced by the relativistic spin-orbit interaction in solids provide a new opportunity to manipulate the spin-polarized electrons on the subpicosecond timescale. Here, we report one such example in a bulk Rashba-type polar semiconductor BiTeBr. Strong terahertz electromagnetic waves are emitted after the resonant excitation of the interband transition between the Rashba-type spin-splitting energy bands with a femtosecond laser pulse circularly polarized. The phase of the emitted terahertz waves is reversed by switching the circular polarization. This suggests that the observed terahertz radiation originates from the subpicosecond spin-polarized photocurrents, which are generated by the asymmetric depopulation of the Dirac state. Our result provides a way for the current-induced terahertz radiation and its phase control by the circular polarization of incident light without external electric fields.

A narrow-band k-distribution model with single mixture gas assumption for radiative flows

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jo, Sung Min; Kim, Jae Won; Kwon, Oh Joon

2018-06-01

In the present study, the narrow-band k-distribution (NBK) model parameters for mixtures of H2O, CO2, and CO are proposed by utilizing the line-by-line (LBL) calculations with a single mixture gas assumption. For the application of the NBK model to radiative flows, a radiative transfer equation (RTE) solver based on a finite-volume method on unstructured meshes was developed. The NBK model and the RTE solver were verified by solving two benchmark problems including the spectral radiance distribution emitted from one-dimensional slabs and the radiative heat transfer in a truncated conical enclosure. It was shown that the results are accurate and physically reliable by comparing with available data. To examine the applicability of the methods to realistic multi-dimensional problems in non-isothermal and non-homogeneous conditions, radiation in an axisymmetric combustion chamber was analyzed, and then the infrared signature emitted from an aircraft exhaust plume was predicted. For modeling the plume flow involving radiative cooling, a flow-radiation coupled procedure was devised in a loosely coupled manner by adopting a Navier-Stokes flow solver based on unstructured meshes. It was shown that the predicted radiative cooling for the combustion chamber is physically more accurate than other predictions, and is as accurate as that by the LBL calculations. It was found that the infrared signature of aircraft exhaust plume can also be obtained accurately, equivalent to the LBL calculations, by using the present narrow-band approach with a much improved numerical efficiency.

Detection of terahertz radiation in metamaterials: giant plasmonic ratchet effect (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rudin, Sergey; Rupper, Greg; Kachorovski, Valentin; Shur, Michael S.

2017-05-01

The electromagnetic wave impinging on the spatially modulated two-dimensional electron liquid (2DEL) induces a direct current (DC) when the wave amplitude modulated with the same wave vector as the 2DEL but is shifted in phase (the ratchet effect). The recent theory of this phenomenon predicted a dramatic enhancement at the plasmonic resonances and a non-trivial polarization dependence [1]. We will present the results of the numerical simulations using a hydrodynamic model exploring the helicity dependence of the DC current for silicon, InGaAs, and GaN metamaterial structures at cryogenic and room temperatures. In particular we will report on the effect of the DEL viscosity and explore the nonlinear effects at large amplitudes of the helical electromagnetic radiation impinging on the ratchet structures. We will then discuss the applications of the ratchet effect for terahertz metamaterials in order to realize ultra-sensitive terahertz (THz) radiation detectors, modulators, phase shifters, and delay lines with cross sections matching the terahertz wavelength and capable of determining the electromagnetic wave polarization and helicity. To this end, we propose and analyze the four contact ratchet devices capable of registering the two perpendicular components of the electric currents induced by the elliptically or circularly polarized radiation and analyze the load impedance effects in the structures optimized for the ratchet metamaterial THz components. The analysis is based on the hydrodynamic model suitable for the multi-gated semiconductor structures, coupled self-consistently with Poisson's equation for the electric potential. The model accounts for the effects of pressure gradients and 2DEL viscosity. Our numerical solutions are applicable to the wide ranges of electron mobility and terahertz power. [1] I. V. Rozhansky, V. Yu. Kachorovskii, and M. S. Shur, Helicity-Driven Ratchet Effect Enhanced by Plasmons, Phys. Rev. Lett. 114, 246601, 15 June 2015

Advances in the biological effects of terahertz wave radiation.

PubMed

Zhao, Li; Hao, Yan-Hui; Peng, Rui-Yun

2014-01-01

The terahertz (THz) band lies between microwave and infrared rays in wavelength and consists of non-ionizing radiation. Both domestic and foreign research institutions, including the army, have attached considerable importance to the research and development of THz technology because this radiation exhibits both photon-like and electron-like properties, which grant it considerable application value and potential. With the rapid development of THz technology and related applications, studies of the biological effects of THz radiation have become a major focus in the field of life sciences. Research in this field has only just begun, both at home and abroad. In this paper, research progress with respect to THz radiation, including its biological effects, mechanisms and methods of protection, will be reviewed.

Time domain analysis of coherent terahertz synchrotron radiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hübers, H.-W.; Semenov, A.; Holldack, K.; Schade, U.; Wüstefeld, G.; Gol'tsman, G.

2005-10-01

The time structure of coherent terahertz synchrotron radiation at the electron storage ring of the Berliner Elektronensynchrotron und Speicherring Gesellschaft has been analyzed with a fast superconducting hot-electron bolometer. The emission from a single bunch of electrons was found to last ˜1500ps at frequencies around 0.4THz, which is much longer than the length of an electron bunch in the time domain (˜5ps). It is suggested that this is caused by multiple reflections at the walls of the beam line. The quadratic increase of the power with the number of electrons in the bunch as predicted for coherent synchrotron radiation and the transition from stable to bursting radiation were determined from a single storage ring fill pattern of bunches with different populations.

Toward remote sensing with broadband terahertz waves

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Clough, Benjamin W.

Terahertz electromagnetic waves, defined as the frequency region between 0.1 and 10 terahertz on the electromagnetic spectrum, have demonstrated remarkable usefulness for imaging and chemical identification with the ability to penetrate many optically opaque barriers. Photon energies at these frequencies are relatively small (meV), which means the radiation is non-ionizing and therefore considered biologically innocuous. With the growing list of applications and demand for terahertz technology, there is a need to develop innovative terahertz sources and detectors that can overcome existing limitations in power, bandwidth, and operating range. Although terahertz radiation has demonstrated unique and exceptional abilities, it has also presented several fundamental challenges. Most notably, the water vapor absorption of terahertz waves in air at habitable altitudes is greater than 100 dB/km. There is an immediate push to utilize the material and vapor identification abilities of terahertz radiation, while extending the effective distances over which the technology can be used. Remote terahertz detection, until recently, was thought to be impossible due to the high water content in the atmosphere, limited signal collection geometries, and solid state materials necessary for generation and detection. This dissertation focuses on laser air-photonics used for sensing short pulses of electromagnetic radiation. Through the ionization process, the very air that we breathe is capable of generating terahertz field strengths greater than 1 MV/cm, useful bandwidths over 100 terahertz, and highly directional emission patterns. Following ionization and plasma formation, the emitted plasma acoustics or fluorescence can be modulated by an external field to serve as omnidirectional, broadband, electromagnetic sensor. A deeper understanding of terahertz wave-plasma interaction is used to develop methods for retrieving coherent terahertz wave information that can be encoded into plasma

Smith-Purcell terahertz radiation from laser modulated electron beam over a metallic grating

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumar, Pawan; Bhasin, Lalita; Tripathi, V. K.; Kumar, Ashok; Kumar, Manoj

2016-09-01

We propose a novel scheme of terahertz (THz) radiation generation from the beat frequency modulation of an electron beam by two co-propagating lasers and the generation of terahertz radiation by the modulated beam passing over a periodic metallic grating. The lasers cause velocity modulation of the beam by exerting a longitudinal ponderomotive force on it. In the drift space between the modulator and metallic grating, the velocity modulation translates into density and current modulation. The modulated beam, propagating over the grating of specific wave number, induces space periodic image current in the conductor that emits beat frequency Smith-Purcell radiation. With 1 μm, 4 × 1016 W/cm2 lasers, beam current modulation of the order of 50% can be achieved at optimum lengths of the modulator and drift space. Employing 10 mA, 0.5 MeV short-period electron beam, propagating at a height of 50 μ m above the grating of period 150 μm, one may obtain THz radiated power of the order of 6 mW at 10 THz.

High-energy coherent terahertz radiation emitted by wide-angle electron beams from a laser-wakefield accelerator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Xue; Brunetti, Enrico; Jaroszynski, Dino A.

2018-04-01

High-charge electron beams produced by laser-wakefield accelerators are potentially novel, scalable sources of high-power terahertz radiation suitable for applications requiring high-intensity fields. When an intense laser pulse propagates in underdense plasma, it can generate femtosecond duration, self-injected picocoulomb electron bunches that accelerate on-axis to energies from 10s of MeV to several GeV, depending on laser intensity and plasma density. The process leading to the formation of the accelerating structure also generates non-injected, sub-picosecond duration, 1–2 MeV nanocoulomb electron beams emitted obliquely into a hollow cone around the laser propagation axis. These wide-angle beams are stable and depend weakly on laser and plasma parameters. Here we perform simulations to characterise the coherent transition radiation emitted by these beams if passed through a thin metal foil, or directly at the plasma–vacuum interface, showing that coherent terahertz radiation with 10s μJ to mJ-level energy can be produced with an optical to terahertz conversion efficiency up to 10‑4–10‑3.

EDITORIAL: Terahertz nanotechnology Terahertz nanotechnology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Demming, Anna; Tonouchi, Masayoshi; Reno, John L.

2013-05-01

A useful synergy is being established between terahertz research and nanotechnology. High power sources [1-3] and detectors [4] in what was once considered the terahertz 'frequency gap' [5] in the electromagnetic spectrum have stimulated research with huge potential benefits in a range of industries including food, medicine and security, as well as fundamental physics and astrophysics. This special section, with guest editors Masayoshi Tonouchi and John Reno, gives a glimpse of the new horizons nanotechnology is broaching in terahertz research. While the wavelengths relevant to the terahertz domain range from hundreds of micrometres to millimetres, structures at the nanoscale reveal interesting low energy dynamics in this region. As a result terahertz spectroscopy techniques are becoming increasingly important in nanomaterial characterization, as demonstrated in this special section by colleagues at the University of Oxford in the UK and the Australian National University. They use terahertz spectroscopy to identify the best nanostructure parameters for specific applications [6]. The low energy dynamics in nanostructures also makes them valuable tools for terahertz detection [7]. In addition the much sought after terahertz detection over broadband frequency ranges has been demonstrated, providing versatility that has been greatly in demand, particularly in spectroscopy applications [8, 9]. Also in this special section, researchers in Germany and China tackle some of the coupling issues in terahertz time domain spectroscopy with an emitter specifically well suited for systems operated with an amplified fibre [3]. 'In medical imaging, the advantage of THz radiation is safety, because its energy is much lower than the ionization energy of biological molecules, in contrast to hazardous x-ray radiation,' explains Joo-Hiuk Son from the University of Seoul in Korea in his review [10]. As he also points out, the rotational and vibrational energies of water molecules are

Room temperature broadband terahertz gains in graphene heterostructures based on inter-layer radiative transitions

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

Tang, Linlong; Chongqing institute of green and intelligent technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing, 401122; Du, Jinglei, E-mail: dujl@scu.edu.cn

We exploit inter-layer radiative transitions to provide gains to amplify terahertz waves in graphene heterostructures. This is achieved by properly doping graphene sheets and aligning their energy bands so that the processes of stimulated emissions can overwhelm absorptions. We derive an expression for the gain estimation and show the gain is insensitive to temperature variation. Moreover, the gain is broadband and can be strong enough to compensate the free carrier loss, indicating graphene based room temperature terahertz lasers are feasible.

Measurement of the surface wavelength distribution of narrow-band radiation by a colorimetric method

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

Kraiskii, A V; Mironova, T V; Sultanov, T T

2010-09-10

A method is suggested for determining the wavelength of narrow-band light from a digital photograph of a radiating surface. The digital camera used should be appropriately calibrated. The accuracy of the wavelength measurement is better than 1 nm. The method was tested on the yellow doublet of mercury spectrum and on the adjacent continuum of the incandescent lamp radiation spectrum. By means of the method suggested the homogeneity of holographic sensor swelling was studied in stationary and transient cases. (laser applications and other topics in quantum electronics)

Semiconductor activated terahertz metamaterials

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

Chen, Hou-Tong

Metamaterials have been developed as a new class of artificial effective media realizing many exotic phenomena and unique properties not normally found in nature. Metamaterials enable functionality through structure design, facilitating applications by addressing the severe material issues in the terahertz frequency range. Consequently, prototype functional terahertz devices have been demonstrated, including filters, antireflection coatings, perfect absorbers, polarization converters, and arbitrary wavefront shaping devices. Further integration of functional materials into metamaterial structures have enabled actively and dynamically switchable and frequency tunable terahertz metamaterials through the application of external stimuli. The enhanced light-matter interactions in active terahertz metamaterials may result inmore » unprecedented control and manipulation of terahertz radiation, forming the foundation of many terahertz applications. In this paper, we review the progress during the past few years in this rapidly growing research field. We particularly focus on the design principles and realization of functionalities using single-layer and few-layer terahertz planar metamaterials, and active terahertz metamaterials through the integration of semiconductors to achieve switchable and frequency-tunable response.« less

Semiconductor activated terahertz metamaterials

DOE PAGES

Chen, Hou-Tong

2014-08-01

Metamaterials have been developed as a new class of artificial effective media realizing many exotic phenomena and unique properties not normally found in nature. Metamaterials enable functionality through structure design, facilitating applications by addressing the severe material issues in the terahertz frequency range. Consequently, prototype functional terahertz devices have been demonstrated, including filters, antireflection coatings, perfect absorbers, polarization converters, and arbitrary wavefront shaping devices. Further integration of functional materials into metamaterial structures have enabled actively and dynamically switchable and frequency tunable terahertz metamaterials through the application of external stimuli. The enhanced light-matter interactions in active terahertz metamaterials may result inmore » unprecedented control and manipulation of terahertz radiation, forming the foundation of many terahertz applications. In this paper, we review the progress during the past few years in this rapidly growing research field. We particularly focus on the design principles and realization of functionalities using single-layer and few-layer terahertz planar metamaterials, and active terahertz metamaterials through the integration of semiconductors to achieve switchable and frequency-tunable response.« less

Observation of superradiant synchrotron radiation in the terahertz region

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Billinghurst, B. E.; Bergstrom, J. C.; Dallin, L.; de Jong, M.; May, T. E.; Vogt, J. M.; Wurtz, W. A.

2013-06-01

We report the first high-resolution measurement of superradiance, using coherent synchrotron radiation in the terahertz region from the Canadian Light Source synchrotron and a Michelson interferometer with a nominal frequency resolution of 0.00096cm-1. Superradiance arises when a high degree of phase coherence exists between the radiation fields of the individual electron bunches, and manifests itself as a series of narrow spectral peaks at harmonics of the bunch frequency. We observe an enhancement factor of 16 at the spectral peaks, limited by the interferometer resolution. The spectral distribution and relative amplitudes of the superradiant peaks are modified by altering the pattern of bunches along the bunch train.

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.

An Overview of the Technological and Scientific Achievements of the Terahertz

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rostami, Ali; Rasooli, Hassan; Baghban, Hamed

2011-01-01

Due to the importance of terahertz radiation in the past several years in spectroscopy, astrophysics, and imaging techniques namely for biomedical applications (its low interference and non-ionizing characteristics, has been made to be a good candidate to be used as a powerful technique for safe, in vivo medical imaging), we decided to review of the terahertz technology and its associated science achievements. The review consists of terahertz terminology, different applications, and main components which are used for detection and generation of terahertz radiation. Also a brief theoretical study of generation and detection of terahertz pulses will be considered. Finally, the chapter will be ended by providing the usage of organic materials for generation and detection of terahertz radiation.

Multiple scattering of broadband terahertz pulses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pearce, Jeremiah Glen

Propagation of single-cycle terahertz (THz) pulses through a random medium leads to dramatic amplitude and phase variations of the electric field because of multiple scattering. We present the first set of experiments that investigate the propagation of THz pulses through scattering media. The scattering of short pulses is a relevant subject to many communities in science and engineering, because the properties of multiply scattered or diffuse waves provide insights into the characteristics of the random medium. For example, the depolarization of diffuse waves has been used to form images of objects embedded in inhomogeneous media. Most of the previous scattering experiments have used narrowband optical radiation where measurements are limited to time averaged intensities or autocorrelation quantities, which contain no phase information of the pulses. In the experiments presented here, a terahertz time-domain spectrometer (THz-TDS) is used. A THz-TDS propagates single-cycle sub-picosecond pulses with bandwidths of over 1 THz into free space. The THz-TDS is a unique tool to study such phenomena, because it provides access to both the intensity and phase of those pulses through direct measurement of the temporal electric field. Because of the broad bandwidth and linear phase of the pulses, it is possible to simultaneously study Rayleigh scattering and the short wavelength limit in a single measurement. We study the diffusion of broadband single-cycle THz pulses by propagating the pulses through a highly scattering medium. Using the THz-TDS, time-domain measurements provide information on the statistics of both the amplitude and phase of the diffusive waves. We develop a theoretical description, suitable for broadband radiation, which accurately describes the experimental results. We measure the time evolution of the degree of polarization, and directly correlate it with the single-scattering regime in the time domain. Measurements of the evolution of the temporal

FDTD-based computed terahertz wave propagation in multilayer medium structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tu, Wan-li; Zhong, Shun-cong; Yao, Hai-zi; Shen, Yao-chun

2013-08-01

The terahertz region of the electromagnetic spectrum spans the frequency range of 0.1THz~10THz, which means it sandwiches between the mid-infrared (IR) and the millimeter/ microwave. With the development and commercialization of terahertz pulsed spectroscopy (TPS) and terahertz pulsed imaging (TPI) systems, terahertz technologies have been widely used in the sensing and imaging fields. It allows high quality cross-sectional images from within scattering media to be obtained nondestructively. Characterizing the interaction of terahertz radiation with multilayer medium structures is critical for the development of nondestructive testing technology. Currently, there was much experimental investigation of using TPI for the characterization of terahertz radiation in materials (e.g., pharmaceutical tablet coatings), but there were few theoretical researches on propagation of terahertz radiation in multilayer medium structures. Finite Difference Time Domain (FDTD) algorithm is a proven method for electromagnetic scattering theory, which analyzes continuous electromagnetic problems by employing finite difference and obtains electromagnetic field value at the sampling point to approach the actual continuous solutions. In the present work, we investigated the propagation of terahertz radiation in multilayer medium structures based on FDTD method. The model of multilayer medium structures under the THz frequency plane wave incidence was established, and the reflected radiation properties were recorded and analyzed. The terahertz radiation used was broad-band in the frequency up to 2 THz. A batch of single layer coated pharmaceutical tablets, whose coating thickness in the range of 40~100μm, was computed by FDTD method. We found that the simulation results on pharmaceutical tablet coatings were in good agreement with the experimental results obtained using a commercial system (TPI imaga 2000, TeraView, Cambridge, UK) , demonstrating its usefulness in simulating and analyzing

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.

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.

Theoretical study of the generation of terahertz radiation by the interaction of two laser beams with graphite nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sepehri Javan, N.; Rouhi Erdi, F.

2017-12-01

In this theoretical study, we investigate the generation of terahertz radiation by considering the beating of two similar Gaussian laser beams with different frequencies of ω1 and ω2 in a spatially modulated medium of graphite nanoparticles. The medium is assumed to contain spherical graphite nanoparticles of two different configurations: in the first configuration, the electric fields of the laser beams are parallel to the normal vector of the basal plane of the graphite structure, whereas in the second configuration, the electric fields are perpendicular to the normal vector of the basal plane. The interaction of the electric fields of lasers with the electronic clouds of the nanoparticles generates a ponderomotive force that in turn leads to the creation of a macroscopic electron current in the direction of laser polarizations and at the beat frequency ω1-ω2 , which can generate terahertz radiation. We show that, when the beat frequency lies near the effective plasmon frequency of the nanoparticles and the electric fields are parallel to the basal-plane normal, a resonant interaction of the laser beams causes intense terahertz radiation.

Terahertz Technology: A Boon to Tablet Analysis

PubMed Central

Wagh, M. P.; Sonawane, Y. H.; Joshi, O. U.

2009-01-01

The terahertz gap has a frequency ranges from ∼0.3 THz to ∼10 THz in the electromagnetic spectrum which is in between microwave and infrared. The terahertz radiations are invisible to naked eye. In comparison with x-ray they are intrinsically safe, non-destructive and non-invasive. Terahertz spectroscopy enables 3D imaging of structures and materials, and the measurement of the unique spectral fingerprints of chemical and physical forms. Terahertz radiations are produced by a dendrimer based high power terahertz source and spectroscopy technologies. It resolves many of the questions left unanswered by complementary techniques, such as optical imaging, Raman and infrared spectra. In the pharmaceutical industries it enables nondestructive, internal, chemical analysis of tablets, capsules, and other dosage forms. Tablet coatings are a major factor in drug bioavailability. Therefore tablet coatings integrity and uniformity are of crucial importance to quality. Terahertz imaging gives an unparalleled certainty about the integrity of tablet coatings and the matrix performance of tablet cores. This article demonstrates the potential of terahertz pulse imaging for the analysis of tablet coating thickness by illustrating the technique on tablets. PMID:20490288

Investigation of radiant millimeter wave/terahertz radiation from low-infrared signature targets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aytaç, B.; Alkuş, Ü.; Sivaslıgil, M.; Şahin, A. B.; Altan, H.

2017-10-01

Millimeter (mm) and sub-mm wave radiation is increasingly becoming a region of interest as better methods are developed to detect in this wavelength range. The development of sensitive focal plane array (FPA) architectures as well as single pixel scanners has opened up a new field of passive detection and imaging. Spectral signatures of objects, a long standing area of interest in the Short Wave Infrared (SWIR), Mid-Wave (MWIR) and Long Wave-IR (LWIR) bands can now be assessed in the mm-wave/terahertz (THz) region. The advantage is that this form of radiation is not as adversely affected by poor atmospheric conditions compared to other bands. In this study, a preliminary experiment in a laboratory environment is performed to assess the radiance from targets with low infrared signatures in the millimeter wave/terahertz (THz) band (<1 THz). The goal of this approach is to be able to model the experimental results to better understand the mm-wave/THz signature of targets with low observability in the IR bands.

Application of Terahertz Radiation to the Detection of Corrosion Under the Shuttle's Thermal Protection System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Madaras, Eric I.; Anastasi, Robert F.; Smith, Stephen W.; Seebo, Jeffrey P.; Walker, James L.; Lomness, Janice K.; Hintze, Paul E.; Kammerer, Catherine C.; Winfree, William P.; Russell, Richard W.

2008-02-01

There is currently no method for detecting corrosion under Shuttle tiles except for the expensive process of tile removal and replacement; hence NASA is investigating new NDE methods for detecting hidden corrosion. Time domain terahertz radiation has been applied to corrosion detection under tiles in samples ranging from small lab samples to a Shuttle with positive results. Terahertz imaging methods have been able to detect corrosion at thicknesses of 5 mils or greater under 1" thick Shuttle tiles and 7-12 mils or greater under 2" thick Shuttle tiles.

Application of Terahertz Radiation to the Detection of Corrosion under the Shuttle's Thermal Protection System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Madaras, Eric I.; Anastasi, Robert F.; Smith, Stephen W.; Seebo, Jeffrey P.; Walker, James L.; Lomness, Janice K.; Hintze, Paul E.; Kammerer, Catherine C.; Winfree, William P.; Russell, Richard W.

2007-01-01

There is currently no method for detecting corrosion under Shuttle tiles except for the expensive process of tile removal and replacement; hence NASA is investigating new NDE methods for detecting hidden corrosion. Time domain terahertz radiation has been applied to corrosion detection under tiles in samples ranging from small lab samples to a Shuttle with positive results. Terahertz imaging methods have been able to detect corrosion at thicknesses of 5 mils or greater under 1" thick Shuttle tiles and 7-12 mils or greater under 2" thick Shuttle tiles.

Two-dimensional tomographic terahertz imaging by homodyne self-mixing.

PubMed

Mohr, Till; Breuer, Stefan; Giuliani, G; Elsäßer, Wolfgang

2015-10-19

We realize a compact two-dimensional tomographic terahertz imaging experiment involving only one photoconductive antenna (PCA) simultaneously serving as a transmitter and receiver of the terahertz radiation. A hollow-core Teflon cylinder filled with α-Lactose monohydrate powder is studied at two terahertz frequencies, far away and at a specific absorption line of the powder. This sample is placed between the antenna and a chopper wheel, which serves as back reflector of the terahertz radiation into the PCA. Amplitude and phase information of the continuous-wave (CW) terahertz radiation are extracted from the measured homodyne self-mixing (HSM) signal after interaction with the cylinder. The influence of refraction is studied by modeling the set-up utilizing ZEMAX and is discussed by means of the measured 1D projections. The tomographic reconstruction by using the Simultaneous Algebraic Reconstruction Technique (SART) allows to identify both object geometry and α-Lactose filling.

Radiative damping and synchronization in a graphene-based terahertz emitter

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

Moskalenko, A. S., E-mail: andrey.moskalenko@physik.uni-augsburg.de; Mikhailov, S. A., E-mail: sergey.mikhailov@physik.uni-augsburg.de

2014-05-28

We investigate the collective electron dynamics in a recently proposed graphene-based terahertz emitter under the influence of the radiative damping effect, which is included self-consistently in a molecular dynamics approach. We show that under appropriate conditions synchronization of the dynamics of single electrons takes place, leading to a rise of the oscillating component of the charge current. The synchronization time depends dramatically on the applied dc electric field and electron scattering rate and is roughly inversely proportional to the radiative damping rate that is determined by the carrier concentration and the geometrical parameters of the device. The emission spectra inmore » the synchronized state, determined by the oscillating current component, are analyzed. The effective generation of higher harmonics for large values of the radiative damping strength is demonstrated.« less

Broadband terahertz-power extracting by using electron cyclotron maser.

PubMed

Pan, Shi; Du, Chao-Hai; Qi, Xiang-Bo; Liu, Pu-Kun

2017-08-04

Terahertz applications urgently require high performance and room temperature terahertz sources. The gyrotron based on the principle of electron cyclotron maser is able to generate watt-to-megawatt level terahertz radiation, and becomes an exceptional role in the frontiers of energy, security and biomedicine. However, in normal conditions, a terahertz gyrotron could generate terahertz radiation with high efficiency on a single frequency or with low efficiency in a relatively narrow tuning band. Here a frequency tuning scheme for the terahertz gyrotron utilizing sequentially switching among several whispering-gallery modes is proposed to reach high performance with broadband, coherence and high power simultaneously. Such mode-switching gyrotron has the potential of generating broadband radiation with 100-GHz-level bandwidth. Even wider bandwidth is limited by the frequency-dependent effective electrical length of the cavity. Preliminary investigation applies a pre-bunched circuit to the single-mode wide-band tuning. Then, more broadband sweeping is produced by mode switching in great-range magnetic tuning. The effect of mode competition, as well as critical engineering techniques on frequency tuning is discussed to confirm the feasibility for the case close to reality. This multi-mode-switching scheme could make gyrotron a promising device towards bridging the so-called terahertz gap.

Quantum Well Intrasubband Photodetector for Far Infared and Terahertz Radiation Detection

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ting, David Z. -Y.; Chang, Yia-Chung; Bandara, Sumith V.; Gunapala, Sarath D.

2007-01-01

The authors present a theoretical analysis on the possibility of using the dopant-assisted intrasubband absorption mechanism in quantum wells for normal-incidence far infrared/terahertz radiation detection. The authors describe the proposed concept of the quantum well intrasubband photodetector (QWISP), which is a compact semiconductor heterostructure device compatible with existing GaAs focal-plane array technology, and present theoretical results demonstrating strong normal-incidence absorption and responsivity in the QWISP.

Terahertz-radiation generation in low-temperature InGaAs epitaxial films on (100) and (411) InP substrates

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

Galiev, G. B., E-mail: galiev-galib@mail.ru; Grekhov, M. M.; Kitaeva, G. Kh.

2017-03-15

The spectrum and waveforms of broadband terahertz-radiation pulses generated by low-temperature In{sub 0.53}Ga{sub 0.47}As epitaxial films under femtosecond laser pumping are investigated by terahertz time-resolved spectroscopy. The In{sub 0.53}Ga{sub 0.47}As films are fabricated by molecular-beam epitaxy at a temperature of 200°C under different arsenic pressures on (100)-oriented InP substrates and, for the first time, on (411)A InP substrates. The surface morphology of the samples is studied by atomic-force microscopy and the structural quality is established by high-resolution X-ray diffraction analysis. It is found that the amplitude of terahertz radiation from the LT-InGaAs layers on the (411)A InP substrates exceeds thatmore » from similar layers formed on the (100) InP substrates by a factor of 3–5.« less

Terahertz waves radiated from two noncollinear femtosecond plasma filaments

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

Du, Hai-Wei; Hoshina, Hiromichi; Otani, Chiko, E-mail: otani@riken.jp

2015-11-23

Terahertz (THz) waves radiated from two noncollinear femtosecond plasma filaments with a crossing angle of 25° are investigated. The irradiated THz waves from the crossing filaments show a small THz pulse after the main THz pulse, which was not observed in those from single-filament scheme. Since the position of the small THz pulse changes with the time-delay of two filaments, this phenomenon can be explained by a model in which the small THz pulse is from the second filament. The denser plasma in the overlap region of the filaments changes the movement of space charges in the plasma, thereby changingmore » the angular distribution of THz radiation. As a result, this schematic induces some THz wave from the second filament to propagate along the path of the THz wave from the first filament. Thus, this schematic alters the direction of the THz radiation from the filamentation, which can be used in THz wave remote sensing.« less

GaN-based metamaterial terahertz bandpass filter design: tunability and ultra-broad passband attainment.

PubMed

Khodaee, M; Banakermani, M; Baghban, H

2015-10-10

Engineering metamaterial-based devices such as terahertz bandpass filters (BPFs) play a definitive role in advancement of terahertz technology. In this article, we propose a design procedure to obtain a considerably broadband terahertz BPF at a normal incidence; it shows promising filtering characteristics, including a wide passband of ∼1.34  THz at a central frequency of 1.17 THz, a flat top in a broad band, and high transmission, compared to previous reports. Then, exploiting the voltage-dependent carrier density control in an AlGaN/GaN heterostructure with a Schottky gate configuration, we investigate the tuning of the transmission properties in a narrow-band terahertz filter. A combination of the ultra-wide, flat-top BPF in series with the tunable, narrow band filter designed in the current study offers the ability to tune the desired resonance frequency along with high out-of-band rejection and the suppression of unwanted resonances in a large spectral range. The proposed structure exhibits a frequency tunability of 103 GHz for a voltage change between -8 and 2 V, and a transmission amplitude change of ∼0.51. This scheme may open up a route for the improved design of terahertz filters and modulators.

Physical Approaches to Designing a Two-Cascade Terahertz Laser Generating Difference-Frequency Radiation in a Nonlinear Optical ZnGeP2 Crystal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gribenyukov, A. I.; Dyomin, V. V.; Polovtsev, I. G.; Yudin, N. N.

2018-03-01

An optical layout of a two-cascade frequency converter of the mid-IR laser radiation into the terahertz (THz) radiation is proposed. In the first stage it is assumed to convert the Tm:YLF-laser frequency in a Cr+2:ZnSe polycrystal into the radiation with the wavelength 2-3 μm. The second cascade can be presented as a parametric conversion of the frequencies of two laser sources operating in the 2-3 μm range into the THz radiation via the difference-frequency mixing in a nonlinear optical ZnGeP2 crystal. The estimates of the terahertz output signal are reported.

Changing growth of neurites of sensory ganglion by terahertz radiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tsurkan, M. V.; Smolyanskaya, O. A.; Bespalov, V. G.; Penniyainen, V. A.; Kipenko, A. V.; Lopatina, E. V.; Krylov, B. V.

2012-02-01

Application of terahertz radiation for the creation of medical equipment and solving of biological problems has become widely spread. From this point of view, the influence of THz radiation on the nerve fibers is of primary concern. In addition, several studies indicated both stimulating and depressive effects on nerve cells. However, the mechanism of this effect has not yet been studied, including the dose and exposure time. Our research was devoted to the impact of broadband pulsed THz radiation in the frequency range of 0.05 to 2 THz on the neurite growth in the sensory ganglia of 10-12-day chicken embryos. Dependence of changes in functional responses of cells on the average output power has been found. An increase in the stimulating effect was observed at the lowest power density used (0.5 μW/cm2). Through non-destructive process and choosing the correct parameters of THz radiation, potential control of neural response becomes possible, which can subsequently lead to new medical treatments.

Large dynamic range terahertz spectrometers based on plasmonic photomixers (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Ning; Javadi, Hamid; Jarrahi, Mona

2017-02-01

Heterodyne terahertz spectrometers are highly in demand for space explorations and astrophysics studies. A conventional heterodyne terahertz spectrometer consists of a terahertz mixer that mixes a received terahertz signal with a local oscillator signal to generate an intermediate frequency signal in the radio frequency (RF) range, where it can be easily processed and detected by RF electronics. Schottky diode mixers, superconductor-insulator-superconductor (SIS) mixers and hot electron bolometer (HEB) mixers are the most commonly used mixers in conventional heterodyne terahertz spectrometers. While conventional heterodyne terahertz spectrometers offer high spectral resolution and high detection sensitivity levels at cryogenic temperatures, their dynamic range and bandwidth are limited by the low radiation power of existing terahertz local oscillators and narrow bandwidth of existing terahertz mixers. To address these limitations, we present a novel approach for heterodyne terahertz spectrometry based on plasmonic photomixing. The presented design replaces terahertz mixer and local oscillator of conventional heterodyne terahertz spectrometers with a plasmonic photomixer pumped by an optical local oscillator. The optical local oscillator consists of two wavelength-tunable continuous-wave optical sources with a terahertz frequency difference. As a result, the spectrometry bandwidth and dynamic range of the presented heterodyne spectrometer is not limited by radiation frequency and power restrictions of conventional terahertz sources. We demonstrate a proof-of-concept terahertz spectrometer with more than 90 dB dynamic range and 1 THz spectrometry bandwidth.

Extremely frequency-widened terahertz wave generation using Cherenkov-type radiation.

PubMed

Suizu, Koji; Koketsu, Kaoru; Shibuya, Takayuki; Tsutsui, Toshihiro; Akiba, Takuya; Kawase, Kodo

2009-04-13

Terahertz (THz) wave generation based on nonlinear frequency conversion is promising way for realizing a tunable monochromatic bright THz-wave source. Such a development of efficient and wide tunable THz-wave source depends on discovery of novel brilliant nonlinear crystal. Important factors of a nonlinear crystal for THz-wave generation are, 1. High nonlinearity and 2. Good transparency at THz frequency region. Unfortunately, many nonlinear crystals have strong absorption at THz frequency region. The fact limits efficient and wide tunable THz-wave generation. Here, we show that Cherenkov radiation with waveguide structure is an effective strategy for achieving efficient and extremely wide tunable THz-wave source. We fabricated MgO-doped lithium niobate slab waveguide with 3.8 microm of thickness and demonstrated difference frequency generation of THz-wave generation with Cherenkov phase matching. Extremely frequency-widened THz-wave generation, from 0.1 to 7.2 THz, without no structural dips successfully obtained. The tuning frequency range of waveguided Cherenkov radiation source was extremely widened compare to that of injection seeded-Terahertz Parametric Generator. The tuning range obtained in this work for THz-wave generation using lithium niobate crystal was the widest value in our knowledge. The highest THz-wave energy obtained was about 3.2 pJ, and the energy conversion efficiency was about 10(-5) %. The method can be easily applied for many conventional nonlinear crystals, results in realizing simple, reasonable, compact, high efficient and ultra broad band THz-wave sources.

A High-Power Broadband Terahertz Source Enabled by Three-Dimensional Light Confinement in a Plasmonic Nanocavity.

PubMed

Yardimci, Nezih Tolga; Cakmakyapan, Semih; Hemmati, Soroosh; Jarrahi, Mona

2017-06-23

The scope and potential uses of time-domain terahertz imaging and spectroscopy are mainly limited by the low optical-to-terahertz conversion efficiency of photoconductive terahertz sources. State-of-the-art photoconductive sources utilize short-carrier-lifetime semiconductors to recombine carriers that cannot contribute to efficient terahertz generation and cause additional thermal dissipation. Here, we present a novel photoconductive terahertz source that offers a significantly higher efficiency compared with terahertz sources fabricated on short-carrier-lifetime substrates. The key innovative feature of this source is the tight three-dimensional confinement of the optical pump beam around the terahertz nanoantennas that are used as radiating elements. This is achieved by means of a nanocavity formed by plasmonic structures and a distributed Bragg reflector. Consequently, almost all of the photo-generated carriers can be routed to the terahertz nanoantennas within a sub-picosecond time-scale. This results in a very strong, ultrafast current that drives the nanoantennas to produce broadband terahertz radiation. We experimentally demonstrate that this terahertz source can generate 4 mW pulsed terahertz radiation under an optical pump power of 720 mW over the 0.1-4 THz frequency range. This is the highest reported power level for terahertz radiation from a photoconductive terahertz source, representing more than an order of magnitude of enhancement in the optical-to-terahertz conversion efficiency compared with state-of-the-art photoconductive terahertz sources fabricated on short-carrier-lifetime substrates.

A High-Power Broadband Terahertz Source Enabled by Three-Dimensional Light Confinement in a Plasmonic Nanocavity

DOE PAGES

Yardimci, Nezih Tolga; Cakmakyapan, Semih; Hemmati, Soroosh; ...

2017-06-23

The scope and potential uses of time-domain terahertz imaging and spectroscopy are mainly limited by the low optical-to-terahertz conversion efficiency of photoconductive terahertz sources. State-of-theart photoconductive sources utilize short-carrier-lifetime semiconductors to recombine carriers that cannot contribute to efficient terahertz generation and cause additional thermal dissipation. Here, we present a novel photoconductive terahertz source that offers a significantly higher efficiency compared with terahertz sources fabricated on short-carrier-lifetime substrates. The key innovative feature of this source is the tight three-dimensional confinement of the optical pump beam around the terahertz nanoantennas that are used as radiating elements. This is achieved by means ofmore » a nanocavity formed by plasmonic structures and a distributed Bragg reflector. Consequently, almost all of the photo-generated carriers can be routed to the terahertz nanoantennas within a sub-picosecond time-scale. This results in a very strong, ultrafast current that drives the nanoantennas to produce broadband terahertz radiation. We experimentally demonstrate that this terahertz source can generate 4 mW pulsed terahertz radiation under an optical pump power of 720 mW over the 0.1–4 THz frequency range. This is the highest reported power level for terahertz radiation from a photoconductive terahertz source, representing more than an order of magnitude of enhancement in the optical-to-terahertz conversion efficiency compared with state-of-the-art photoconductive terahertz sources fabricated on shortcarrier- lifetime substrates.« less

Design, fabrication, and experimental characterization of plasmonic photoconductive terahertz emitters.

PubMed

Berry, Christopher; Hashemi, Mohammad Reza; Unlu, Mehmet; Jarrahi, Mona

2013-07-08

In this video article we present a detailed demonstration of a highly efficient method for generating terahertz waves. Our technique is based on photoconduction, which has been one of the most commonly used techniques for terahertz generation (1-8). Terahertz generation in a photoconductive emitter is achieved by pumping an ultrafast photoconductor with a pulsed or heterodyned laser illumination. The induced photocurrent, which follows the envelope of the pump laser, is routed to a terahertz radiating antenna connected to the photoconductor contact electrodes to generate terahertz radiation. Although the quantum efficiency of a photoconductive emitter can theoretically reach 100%, the relatively long transport path lengths of photo-generated carriers to the contact electrodes of conventional photoconductors have severely limited their quantum efficiency. Additionally, the carrier screening effect and thermal breakdown strictly limit the maximum output power of conventional photoconductive terahertz sources. To address the quantum efficiency limitations of conventional photoconductive terahertz emitters, we have developed a new photoconductive emitter concept which incorporates a plasmonic contact electrode configuration to offer high quantum-efficiency and ultrafast operation simultaneously. By using nano-scale plasmonic contact electrodes, we significantly reduce the average photo-generated carrier transport path to photoconductor contact electrodes compared to conventional photoconductors (9). Our method also allows increasing photoconductor active area without a considerable increase in the capacitive loading to the antenna, boosting the maximum terahertz radiation power by preventing the carrier screening effect and thermal breakdown at high optical pump powers. By incorporating plasmonic contact electrodes, we demonstrate enhancing the optical-to-terahertz power conversion efficiency of a conventional photoconductive terahertz emitter by a factor of 50 (10).

Heterogeneously integrated III-V/silicon dual-mode distributed feedback laser array for terahertz generation.

PubMed

Shao, Haifeng; Keyvaninia, Shahram; Vanwolleghem, Mathias; Ducournau, Guillaume; Jiang, Xiaoqing; Morthier, Geert; Lampin, Jean-Francois; Roelkens, Gunther

2014-11-15

We demonstrate an integrated distributed feedback (DFB) laser array as a dual-wavelength source for narrowband terahertz (THz) generation. The laser array is composed of four heterogeneously integrated III-V-on-silicon DFB lasers with different lengths enabling dual-mode lasing tolerant to process variations, bias fluctuations, and ambient temperature variations. By optical heterodyning the two modes emitted by the dual-wavelength DFB laser in the laser array using a THz photomixer composed of an uni-traveling carrier photodiode (UTC-PD), a narrow and stable carrier signal with a frequency of 0.357 THz is generated. The central operating frequency and the emitted terahertz wave linewidth are analyzed, along with their dependency on the bias current applied to the laser diode and ambient temperature.

Terahertz radiation in graphene hyperbolic medium excited by an electric dipole.

PubMed

Feng, Xiaodong; Gong, Sen; Zhong, Renbin; Zhao, Tao; Hu, Min; Zhang, Chao; Liu, Shenggang

2018-03-01

In this Letter, the enhanced and directional radiation in a wide terahertz (THz) frequency range in a graphene hyperbolic medium excited by an electric dipole is presented. The numerical simulations and theoretical analyses indicate that the enhanced radiation comes from the strong surface plasmon couplings in the graphene hyperbolic medium, consisting of alternative graphene and dielectric substrate layers. The simulation results also show that the peak power flow of the enhanced THz radiation in the graphene hyperbolic medium is dramatically enhanced by more than 1 order of magnitude over that in a general medium within a certain distance from the dipole, and the electromagnetic fields are strongly concentrated in a narrow angle. Also, the radiation fields can be manipulated, and the fields' angular distributions can be tuned by adjusting the dielectric permittivity and thickness of the substrates, and the chemical potential of graphene. Accordingly, it provides a good opportunity for developing miniature, integratable, high-power-density, and tunable radiation sources in the THz band at room temperature.

Measurements of terahertz radiation generated using a metallic, corrugated pipe

DOE PAGES

Bane, Karl; Stupakov, Gennady; Antipov, Sergey; ...

2016-11-23

Here, a method for producing narrow-band THz radiation proposes passing an ultra-relativistic beam through a metallic pipe with small periodic corrugations. We present results of a measurement of such an arrangement at Brookhaven's Accelerator Test Facility (ATF). Our pipe was copper and was 5 cm long; the aperture was cylindrically symmetric, with a 1 mm (radius) bore and a corrugation depth (peak-to-peak) of 60 µm. In the experiment we measured both the effect on the beam of the structure wakefield and the spectral properties of the radiation excited by the beam. We began by injecting a relatively long beam comparedmore » to the wavelength of the radiation, but with short rise time, to excite the structure, and then used a downstream spectrometer to infer the radiation wavelength. This was followed by injecting a shorter bunch, and then using an interferometer (also downstream of the corrugated pipe) to measure the spectrum of the induced THz radiation. For the THz pulse we obtain and compare with calculations: the central frequency, the bandwidth, and the spectral power—compared to a diffraction radiation background signal.« less

Measurements of terahertz radiation generated using a metallic, corrugated pipe

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

Bane, Karl; Stupakov, Gennady; Antipov, Sergey

Here, a method for producing narrow-band THz radiation proposes passing an ultra-relativistic beam through a metallic pipe with small periodic corrugations. We present results of a measurement of such an arrangement at Brookhaven's Accelerator Test Facility (ATF). Our pipe was copper and was 5 cm long; the aperture was cylindrically symmetric, with a 1 mm (radius) bore and a corrugation depth (peak-to-peak) of 60 µm. In the experiment we measured both the effect on the beam of the structure wakefield and the spectral properties of the radiation excited by the beam. We began by injecting a relatively long beam comparedmore » to the wavelength of the radiation, but with short rise time, to excite the structure, and then used a downstream spectrometer to infer the radiation wavelength. This was followed by injecting a shorter bunch, and then using an interferometer (also downstream of the corrugated pipe) to measure the spectrum of the induced THz radiation. For the THz pulse we obtain and compare with calculations: the central frequency, the bandwidth, and the spectral power—compared to a diffraction radiation background signal.« less

Epitaxial stresses in an InGaAs photoconductive layer for terahertz antennas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khusyainov, D. I.; Buryakov, A. M.; Bilyk, V. R.; Mishina, E. D.; Ponomarev, D. S.; Khabibullin, R. A.; Yachmenev, A. E.

2017-11-01

The effect of epitaxial stresses on the excess-carrier dynamics and the terahertz radiation spectrum of the InyGa1-yAs films have been investigated by optical pump-probe and terahertz time-domain spectroscopy. It has been demonstrated that a InyGa1-yAs film with a higher mechanical stress has the shorter excesscarrier lifetime and broader terahertz radiation spectrum.

Excitation of terahertz radiation by an electron beam in a dielectric lined waveguide with rippled dielectric surface

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

Tripathi, Deepak; Uma, R.; Tripathi, V. K.

A relativistic electron beam propagating through a dielectric lined waveguide, with ripple on the dielectric surface, excites a free electron laser type instability where ripple acts as a wiggler. The spatial modulation of permittivity in the ripple region couples a terahertz radiation mode to a driven mode of lower phase velocity, where the beam is in Cerenkov resonance with the slow mode. Both the modes grow at the expanse of beam energy. The terahertz frequency increases as the beam velocity increases. The growth rate of the instability goes as one third power of beam density.

Anti-reflection coating design for metallic terahertz meta-materials.

PubMed

Pancaldi, Matteo; Freeman, Ryan; Hudl, Matthias; Hoffmann, Matthias C; Urazhdin, Sergei; Vavassori, Paolo; Bonetti, Stefano

2018-02-05

We demonstrate a silicon-based, single-layer anti-reflection coating that suppresses the reflectivity of metals at near-infrared frequencies, enabling optical probing of nano-scale structures embedded in highly reflective surroundings. Our design does not affect the interaction of terahertz radiation with metallic structures that can be used to achieve terahertz near-field enhancement. We have verified the functionality of the design by calculating and measuring the reflectivity of both infrared and terahertz radiation from a silicon/gold double layer as a function of the silicon thickness. We have also fabricated the unit cell of a terahertz meta-material, a dipole antenna comprising two 20-nm thick extended gold plates separated by a 2 μm gap, where the terahertz field is locally enhanced. We used the time-domain finite element method to demonstrate that such near-field enhancement is preserved in the presence of the anti-reflection coating. Finally, we performed magneto-optical Kerr effect measurements on a single 3-nm thick, 1-μm wide magnetic wire placed in the gap of such a dipole antenna. The wire only occupies 2% of the area probed by the laser beam, but its magneto-optical response can be clearly detected. Our design paves the way for ultrafast time-resolved studies, using table-top femtosecond near-infrared lasers, of dynamics in nano-structures driven by strong terahertz radiation.

Biomedical terahertz imaging with a quantum cascade laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Seongsin M.; Hatami, Fariba; Harris, James S.; Kurian, Allison W.; Ford, James; King, Douglas; Scalari, Giacomo; Giovannini, Marcella; Hoyler, Nicolas; Faist, Jerome; Harris, Geoff

2006-04-01

We present biomedical imaging using a single frequency terahertz imaging system based on a low threshold quantum cascade laser emitting at 3.7THz (λ=81μm). With a peak output power of 4mW, coherent terahertz radiation and detection provide a relatively large dynamic range and high spatial resolution. We study image contrast based on water/fat content ratios in different tissues. Terahertz transmission imaging demonstrates a distinct anatomy in a rat brain slice. We also demonstrate malignant tissue contrast in an image of a mouse liver with developed tumors, indicating potential use of terahertz imaging for probing cancerous tissues.

A Concealed Barcode Identification System Using Terahertz Time-domain Spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guan, Yu; Yamamoto, Manabu; Kitazawa, Toshiyuki; Tripathi, Saroj R.; Takeya, Kei; Kawase, Kodo

2015-03-01

We present a concealed terahertz barcode/chipless tag to achieve remote identification through an obstructing material using terahertz radiation. We show scanned terahertz reflection spectral images of barcodes concealed by a thick obstacle. A concealed and double- side printed terahertz barcode structure is proposed, and we demonstrate that our design has better performance in definition than a single-side printed barcode using terahertz time-domain spectroscopy. This technique combines the benefits of a chipless tag to read encoded information covered by an optically opaque material with low cost and a simple fabrication process. Simulations are also described, along with an explanation of the principle of the terahertz barcode identification system.

Terahertz Tools Advance Imaging for Security, Industry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2010-01-01

Picometrix, a wholly owned subsidiary of Advanced Photonix Inc. (API), of Ann Arbor, Michigan, invented the world s first commercial terahertz system. The company improved the portability and capabilities of their systems through Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) agreements with Langley Research Center to provide terahertz imaging capabilities for inspecting the space shuttle external tanks and orbiters. Now API s systems make use of the unique imaging capacity of terahertz radiation on manufacturing floors, for thickness measurements of coatings, pharmaceutical tablet production, and even art conservation.

Continuous wave terahertz radiation from an InAs/GaAs quantum-dot photomixer device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kruczek, T.; Leyman, R.; Carnegie, D.; Bazieva, N.; Erbert, G.; Schulz, S.; Reardon, C.; Reynolds, S.; Rafailov, E. U.

2012-08-01

Generation of continuous wave radiation at terahertz (THz) frequencies from a heterodyne source based on quantum-dot (QD) semiconductor materials is reported. The source comprises an active region characterised by multiple alternating photoconductive and QD carrier trapping layers and is pumped by two infrared optical signals with slightly offset wavelengths, allowing photoconductive device switching at the signals' difference frequency ˜1 THz.

Anti-reflection coating design for metallic terahertz meta-materials

DOE PAGES

Pancaldi, Matteo; Freeman, Ryan; Hudl, Matthias; ...

2018-01-26

We demonstrate a silicon-based, single-layer anti-reflection coating that suppresses the reflectivity of metals at near-infrared frequencies, enabling optical probing of nano-scale structures embedded in highly reflective surroundings. Our design does not affect the interaction of terahertz radiation with metallic structures that can be used to achieve terahertz near-field enhancement. We have verified the functionality of the design by calculating and measuring the reflectivity of both infrared and terahertz radiation from a silicon/gold double layer as a function of the silicon thickness. We have also fabricated the unit cell of a terahertz meta-material, a dipole antenna comprising two 20-nm thick extendedmore » gold plates separated by a 2 μm gap, where the terahertz field is locally enhanced. We used the time-domain finite element method to demonstrate that such near-field enhancement is preserved in the presence of the anti-reflection coating. Finally, we performed magneto-optical Kerr effect measurements on a single 3-nm thick, 1-μm wide magnetic wire placed in the gap of such a dipole antenna. The wire only occupies 2% of the area probed by the laser beam, but its magneto-optical response can be clearly detected. Our design paves the way for ultrafast time-resolved studies, using table-top femtosecond near-infrared lasers, of dynamics in nano-structures driven by strong terahertz radiation.« less

Anti-reflection coating design for metallic terahertz meta-materials

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

Pancaldi, Matteo; Freeman, Ryan; Hudl, Matthias

We demonstrate a silicon-based, single-layer anti-reflection coating that suppresses the reflectivity of metals at near-infrared frequencies, enabling optical probing of nano-scale structures embedded in highly reflective surroundings. Our design does not affect the interaction of terahertz radiation with metallic structures that can be used to achieve terahertz near-field enhancement. We have verified the functionality of the design by calculating and measuring the reflectivity of both infrared and terahertz radiation from a silicon/gold double layer as a function of the silicon thickness. We have also fabricated the unit cell of a terahertz meta-material, a dipole antenna comprising two 20-nm thick extendedmore » gold plates separated by a 2 μm gap, where the terahertz field is locally enhanced. We used the time-domain finite element method to demonstrate that such near-field enhancement is preserved in the presence of the anti-reflection coating. Finally, we performed magneto-optical Kerr effect measurements on a single 3-nm thick, 1-μm wide magnetic wire placed in the gap of such a dipole antenna. The wire only occupies 2% of the area probed by the laser beam, but its magneto-optical response can be clearly detected. Our design paves the way for ultrafast time-resolved studies, using table-top femtosecond near-infrared lasers, of dynamics in nano-structures driven by strong terahertz radiation.« less

[A Compact Source of Terahertz Radiation Based on Interaction of Electrons in à Quantum Well with an Electromagnetic Wave of a Corrugated Waveguide].

PubMed

Shchurova, L Yu; Namiot, V A; Sarkisyan, D R

2015-01-01

Coherent sources of electromagnetic waves in the terahertz frequency range are very promising for various applications, including biology and medicine. In this paper we propose a scheme of a compact terahertz source, in which terahertz radiation is generated due to effective interaction of electrons in a quantum well with an electromagnetic wave of a corrugated waveguide. We have shown that the generation of electromagnetic waves with a frequency of 1012 sec(-1) and an output power of up to 25. mW is possible in the proposed scheme.

Absorption of laser plasma in competition with oscillation currents for a terahertz spectrum.

PubMed

Li, Xiaolu; Bai, Ya; Li, Na; Liu, Peng

2018-01-01

We generate terahertz radiation in a supersonic jet of nitrogen molecules pumped by intense two-color laser pulses. The tuning of terahertz spectra from blue shift to red shift is observed by increasing laser power and stagnation pressure, and the red shift range is enlarged with the increased stagnation pressure. Our simulation reveals that the plasma absorption of the oscillation currents and expanded plasma column owing to increased laser intensity and gas number density are crucial factors in the recurrence of the red shift of terahertz spectra. The findings disclose the microscopic mechanism of terahertz radiation and present a controlling knob for the manipulation of a broadband terahertz spectrum from laser plasma.

Squeezing terahertz light into nanovolumes: nanoantenna enhanced terahertz spectroscopy (NETS) of semiconductor quantum dots.

PubMed

Toma, Andrea; Tuccio, Salvatore; Prato, Mirko; De Donato, Francesco; Perucchi, Andrea; Di Pietro, Paola; Marras, Sergio; Liberale, Carlo; Proietti Zaccaria, Remo; De Angelis, Francesco; Manna, Liberato; Lupi, Stefano; Di Fabrizio, Enzo; Razzari, Luca

2015-01-14

Terahertz spectroscopy has vast potentialities in sensing a broad range of elementary excitations (e.g., collective vibrations of molecules, phonons, excitons, etc.). However, the large wavelength associated with terahertz radiation (about 300 μm at 1 THz) severely hinders its interaction with nano-objects, such as nanoparticles, nanorods, nanotubes, and large molecules of biological relevance, practically limiting terahertz studies to macroscopic ensembles of these compounds, in the form of thick pellets of crystallized molecules or highly concentrated solutions of nanomaterials. Here we show that chains of terahertz dipole nanoantennas spaced by nanogaps of 20 nm allow retrieving the spectroscopic signature of a monolayer of cadmium selenide quantum dots, a significant portion of the signal arising from the dots located within the antenna nanocavities. A Fano-like interference between the fundamental antenna mode and the phonon resonance of the quantum dots is observed, accompanied by an absorption enhancement factor greater than one million. NETS can find immediate applications in terahertz spectroscopic studies of nanocrystals and molecules at extremely low concentrations. Furthermore, it shows a practicable route toward the characterization of individual nano-objects at these frequencies.

Graphene based terahertz phase modulators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kakenov, N.; Ergoktas, M. S.; Balci, O.; Kocabas, C.

2018-07-01

Electrical control of amplitude and phase of terahertz radiation (THz) is the key technological challenge for high resolution and noninvasive THz imaging. The lack of active materials and devices hinders the realization of these imaging systems. Here, we demonstrate an efficient terahertz phase and amplitude modulation using electrically tunable graphene devices. Our device structure consists of electrolyte-gated graphene placed at quarter wavelength distance from a reflecting metallic surface. In this geometry, graphene operates as a tunable impedance surface which yields electrically controlled reflection phase. Terahertz time domain reflection spectroscopy reveals the voltage controlled phase modulation of π and the reflection modulation of 50 dB. To show the promises of our approach, we demonstrate a multipixel phase modulator array which operates as a gradient impedance surface.

High power telecommunication-compatible photoconductive terahertz emitters based on plasmonic nano-antenna arrays.

PubMed

Yardimci, Nezih Tolga; Lu, Hong; Jarrahi, Mona

2016-11-07

We present a high-power and broadband photoconductive terahertz emitter operating at telecommunication optical wavelengths, at which compact and high-performance fiber lasers are commercially available. The presented terahertz emitter utilizes an ErAs:InGaAs substrate to achieve high resistivity and short carrier lifetime characteristics required for robust operation at telecommunication optical wavelengths. It also uses a two-dimensional array of plasmonic nano-antennas to offer significantly higher optical-to-terahertz conversion efficiencies compared to the conventional photoconductive emitters, while maintaining broad operation bandwidths. We experimentally demonstrate pulsed terahertz radiation over 0.1-5 THz frequency range with the power levels as high as 300  μ W. This is the highest-reported terahertz radiation power from a photoconductive emitter operating at telecommunication optical wavelengths.

Laser-produced lithium plasma as a narrow-band extended ultraviolet radiation source for photoelectron spectroscopy.

PubMed

Schriever, G; Mager, S; Naweed, A; Engel, A; Bergmann, K; Lebert, R

1998-03-01

Extended ultraviolet (EUV) emission characteristics of a laser-produced lithium plasma are determined with regard to the requirements of x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The main features of interest are spectral distribution, photon flux, bandwidth, source size, and emission duration. Laser-produced lithium plasmas are characterized as emitters of intense narrow-band EUV radiation. It can be estimated that the lithium Lyman-alpha line emission in combination with an ellipsoidal silicon/molybdenum multilayer mirror is a suitable EUV source for an x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy microscope with a 50-meV energy resolution and a 10-mum lateral resolution.

Frequency-tunable continuous-wave terahertz sources based on GaAs plasmonic photomixers

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

Yang, Shang-Hua; Jarrahi, Mona; Electrical Engineering Department, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095

2015-09-28

We present frequency-tunable, continuous-wave terahertz sources based on GaAs plasmonic photomixers, which offer high terahertz radiation power levels at 50% radiation duty cycle. The use of plasmonic contact electrodes enhances photomixer quantum efficiency while maintaining its ultrafast operation by concentrating a large number of photocarriers in close proximity to the device contact electrodes. Additionally, the relatively high thermal conductivity and high resistivity of GaAs allow operation under high optical pump power levels and long duty cycles without reaching the thermal breakdown limit of the photomixer. We experimentally demonstrate continuous-wave terahertz radiation with a radiation frequency tuning range of more thanmore » 2 THz and a record-high radiation power of 17 μW at 1 THz through plasmonic photomixers fabricated on a low temperature grown GaAs substrate at 50% radiation duty cycle.« less

Diffraction mode terahertz tomography

DOEpatents

Ferguson, Bradley; Wang, Shaohong; Zhang, Xi-Cheng

2006-10-31

A method of obtaining a series of images of a three-dimensional object. The method includes the steps of transmitting pulsed terahertz (THz) radiation through the entire object from a plurality of angles, optically detecting changes in the transmitted THz radiation using pulsed laser radiation, and constructing a plurality of imaged slices of the three-dimensional object using the detected changes in the transmitted THz radiation. The THz radiation is transmitted through the object as a two-dimensional array of parallel rays. The optical detection is an array of detectors such as a CCD sensor.

High power telecommunication-compatible photoconductive terahertz emitters based on plasmonic nano-antenna arrays

PubMed Central

Yardimci, Nezih Tolga; Lu, Hong; Jarrahi, Mona

2016-01-01

We present a high-power and broadband photoconductive terahertz emitter operating at telecommunication optical wavelengths, at which compact and high-performance fiber lasers are commercially available. The presented terahertz emitter utilizes an ErAs:InGaAs substrate to achieve high resistivity and short carrier lifetime characteristics required for robust operation at telecommunication optical wavelengths. It also uses a two-dimensional array of plasmonic nano-antennas to offer significantly higher optical-to-terahertz conversion efficiencies compared to the conventional photoconductive emitters, while maintaining broad operation bandwidths. We experimentally demonstrate pulsed terahertz radiation over 0.1–5 THz frequency range with the power levels as high as 300 μW. This is the highest-reported terahertz radiation power from a photoconductive emitter operating at telecommunication optical wavelengths. PMID:27916999

Single mode terahertz quantum cascade amplifier

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

Ren, Y., E-mail: yr235@cam.ac.uk; Wallis, R.; Shah, Y. D.

2014-10-06

A terahertz (THz) optical amplifier based on a 2.9 THz quantum cascade laser (QCL) structure has been demonstrated. By depositing an antireflective coating on the QCL facet, the laser mirror losses are enhanced to fully suppress the lasing action, creating a THz quantum cascade (QC) amplifier. Terahertz radiation amplification has been obtained, by coupling a separate multi-mode THz QCL of the same active region design to the QC amplifier. A bare cavity gain is achieved and shows excellent agreement with the lasing spectrum from the original QCL without the antireflective coating. Furthermore, a maximum optical gain of ∼30 dB with single-modemore » radiation output is demonstrated.« less

A promising diagnostic method: Terahertz pulsed imaging and spectroscopy

PubMed Central

Sun, Yiwen; Sy, Ming Yiu; Wang, Yi-Xiang J; Ahuja, Anil T; Zhang, Yuan-Ting; Pickwell-MacPherson, Emma

2011-01-01

The terahertz band lies between the microwave and infrared regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. This radiation has very low photon energy and thus it does not pose any ionization hazard for biological tissues. It is strongly attenuated by water and very sensitive to water content. Unique absorption spectra due to intermolecular vibrations in this region have been found in different biological materials. These unique features make terahertz imaging very attractive for medical applications in order to provide complimentary information to existing imaging techniques. There has been an increasing interest in terahertz imaging and spectroscopy of biologically related applications within the last few years and more and more terahertz spectra are being reported. This paper introduces terahertz technology and provides a short review of recent advances in terahertz imaging and spectroscopy techniques, and a number of applications such as molecular spectroscopy, tissue characterization and skin imaging are discussed. PMID:21512652

Investigation of broadband terahertz generation from metasurface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fang, Ming; Niu, Kaikun; Huang, Zhiaxiang; Sha, Wei E. I.; Wu, Xianliang; Koschny, Thomas; Soukoulis, Costas M.

2018-05-01

The nonlinear metamaterials have been shown to provide nonlinear properties with high nonlinear conversion efficiency and in a myriad of light manipulation. Here we study terahertz generation from nonlinear metasurface consisting of single layer nanoscale split-ring resonator array. The terahertz generation due to optical rectification by the second-order nonlinearity of the split-ring resonator is investigated by a time-domain implementation of the hydrodynamic model for electron dynamics in metal. The results show that the nonlinear metasurface enables us to generate broadband terahertz radiation and free from quasi-phase-matching conditions. The proposed scheme provides a new concept of broadband THz source and designing nonlinear plasmonic metamaterials.

Investigation of broadband terahertz generation from metasurface.

PubMed

Fang, Ming; Niu, Kaikun; Huang, Zhiaxiang; Sha, Wei E I; Wu, Xianliang; Koschny, Thomas; Soukoulis, Costas M

2018-05-28

The nonlinear metamaterials have been shown to provide nonlinear properties with high nonlinear conversion efficiency and in a myriad of light manipulation. Here we study terahertz generation from nonlinear metasurface consisting of single layer nanoscale split-ring resonator array. The terahertz generation due to optical rectification by the second-order nonlinearity of the split-ring resonator is investigated by a time-domain implementation of the hydrodynamic model for electron dynamics in metal. The results show that the nonlinear metasurface enables us to generate broadband terahertz radiation and free from quasi-phase-matching conditions. The proposed scheme provides a new concept of broadband THz source and designing nonlinear plasmonic metamaterials.

Field transients of coherent terahertz synchrotron radiation accessed via time-resolving and correlation techniques

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

Pohl, A.; Hübers, H.-W.; Institute of Optical Sensor Systems, German Aerospace Center

2016-03-21

Decaying oscillations of the electric field in repetitive pulses of coherent synchrotron radiation in the terahertz frequency range was evaluated by means of time-resolving and correlation techniques. Comparative analysis of real-time voltage transients of the electrical response and interferograms, which were obtained with an ultrafast zero-bias Schottky diode detector and a Martin-Puplett interferometer, delivers close values of the pulse duration. Consistent results were obtained via the correlation technique with a pair of Golay Cell detectors and a pair of resonant polarisation-sensitive superconducting detectors integrated on one chip. The duration of terahertz synchrotron pulses does not closely correlate with the durationmore » of single-cycle electric field expected for the varying size of electron bunches. We largely attribute the difference to the charge density oscillations in electron bunches and to the low-frequency spectral cut-off imposed by both the synchrotron beamline and the coupling optics of our detectors.« less

Single-shot terahertz time-domain spectroscopy in pulsed high magnetic fields.

PubMed

Noe, G Timothy; Katayama, Ikufumi; Katsutani, Fumiya; Allred, James J; Horowitz, Jeffrey A; Sullivan, David M; Zhang, Qi; Sekiguchi, Fumiya; Woods, Gary L; Hoffmann, Matthias C; Nojiri, Hiroyuki; Takeda, Jun; Kono, Junichiro

2016-12-26

We have developed a single-shot terahertz time-domain spectrometer to perform optical-pump/terahertz-probe experiments in pulsed, high magnetic fields up to 30 T. The single-shot detection scheme for measuring a terahertz waveform incorporates a reflective echelon to create time-delayed beamlets across the intensity profile of the optical gate beam before it spatially and temporally overlaps with the terahertz radiation in a ZnTe detection crystal. After imaging the gate beam onto a camera, we can retrieve the terahertz time-domain waveform by analyzing the resulting image. To demonstrate the utility of our technique, we measured cyclotron resonance absorption of optically excited carriers in the terahertz frequency range in intrinsic silicon at high magnetic fields, with results that agree well with published values.

Application of a Terahertz Multi-Frequency Radiation Source Based on Quantum-Cascade Lasers for Identification of Substances Basing on the Amplitude-Spectral Analysis of the Scattered Field

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aksenov, V. N.; Angeluts, A. A.; Balakin, A. V.; Maksimov, E. M.; Ozheredov, I. A.; Shkurinov, A. P.

2018-05-01

We demonstrate the possibility of using a multi-frequency terahertz source to identify substances basing on the analysis of relative amplitudes of the terahertz waves scattered by the object. The results of studying experimentally the scattering of quasi-monochromatic radiation generated by a two-frequency terahertz quantum-cascade laser by the surface of the samples containing inclusions of absorbing substances are presented. It is shown that the spectral features of absorption of these substances within the terahertz frequency range manifest themselves in variations of the amplitudes of the waves at frequencies of 3.0 and 3.7 THz, which are scattered by the samples under consideration.

Terahertz Absorption and Circular Dichroism Spectroscopy of Solvated Biopolymers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Jing; Plaxco, Kevin; Allen, S. James

2006-03-01

Biopolymers are expected to exhibit broad spectral features in the terahertz frequency range, corresponding to their functionally relevant, global and sub-global collective vibrational modes with ˜ picosecond timescale. Recent advances in terahertz technology have stimulated researchers to employ terahertz absorption spectroscopy to directly probe these postulated collective modes. However, these pioneering studies have been limited to dry and, at best, moist samples. Successful isolation of low frequency vibrational activities of solvated biopolymers in their natural water environment has remained elusive, due to the overwhelming attenuation of the terahertz radiation by water. Here we have developed a terahertz absorption and circular dichroism spectrometer suitable for studying biopolymers in biologically relevant water solutions. We have precisely isolated, for the first time, the terahertz absorption of solvated prototypical proteins, Bovine Serum Albumin and Lysozyme, and made important direct comparison to the existing molecular dynamic simulations and normal mode calculations. We have also successfully demonstrated the magnetic circular dichroism in semiconductors, and placed upper bounds on the terahertz circular dichroism signatures of prototypical proteins in water solution.

Ultrabright continuously tunable terahertz-wave generation at room temperature

PubMed Central

Hayashi, Shin'ichiro; Nawata, Kouji; Taira, Takunori; Shikata, Jun-ichi; Kawase, Kodo; Minamide, Hiroaki

2014-01-01

The hottest frequency region in terms of research currently lies in the ‘frequency gap' region between microwaves and infrared: terahertz waves. Although new methods for generating terahertz radiation have been developed, most sources cannot generate high-brightness terahertz beams. Here we demonstrate the generation of ultrabright terahertz waves (brightness ~0.2 GW/sr·cm2, brightness temperature of ~1018 K, peak power of >50 kW) using parametric wavelength conversion in a nonlinear crystal; this is brighter than many specialized sources such as far-infrared free-electron lasers (~1016 K, ~2 kW). We revealed novel parametric wavelength conversion using stimulated Raman scattering in LiNbO3 without stimulated Brillouin scattering using recently-developed microchip laser. Furthermore, nonlinear up-conversion techniques allow the intense terahertz waves to be visualized and their frequency determined. These results are very promising for extending applied research into the terahertz region, and we expect that this source will open up new research fields such as nonlinear optics in the terahertz region. PMID:24898269

Ultrabright continuously tunable terahertz-wave generation at room temperature.

PubMed

Hayashi, Shin'ichiro; Nawata, Kouji; Taira, Takunori; Shikata, Jun-ichi; Kawase, Kodo; Minamide, Hiroaki

2014-06-05

The hottest frequency region in terms of research currently lies in the 'frequency gap' region between microwaves and infrared: terahertz waves. Although new methods for generating terahertz radiation have been developed, most sources cannot generate high-brightness terahertz beams. Here we demonstrate the generation of ultrabright terahertz waves (brightness ~0.2 GW/sr·cm(2), brightness temperature of ~10(18) K, peak power of >50 kW) using parametric wavelength conversion in a nonlinear crystal; this is brighter than many specialized sources such as far-infrared free-electron lasers (~10(16) K, ~2 kW). We revealed novel parametric wavelength conversion using stimulated Raman scattering in LiNbO3 without stimulated Brillouin scattering using recently-developed microchip laser. Furthermore, nonlinear up-conversion techniques allow the intense terahertz waves to be visualized and their frequency determined. These results are very promising for extending applied research into the terahertz region, and we expect that this source will open up new research fields such as nonlinear optics in the terahertz region.

Stimulated Emission of Terahertz Radiation from Internal ExcitonTransitions in Cu2O

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schmid, B. A.; Huber, R.; Shen, Y. R.; Kaindl, R. A.; Chemla, D. S.

2006-03-01

Excitons are among the most fundamental optical excitation modes in semiconductors. Resonant infrared pulses have been used to sensitively probe absorptive transitions between hydrogen-like bound pair states [1,2]. We report the first observation of the reverse quantum process: stimulated emission of electromagnetic radiation from intra-excitonic transitions [3]. Broadband terahertz pulses monitor the far-infrared electromagnetic response of Cu2O after ultrafast resonant photogeneration of 3p excitons. Stimulated emission from the 3p to the energetically lower 2s bound level occurs at a photon energy of 6.6 meV, with a cross section of ˜10-14 cm^2. Simultaneous excitation of both exciton levels, in turn, drives quantum beats which lead to efficient terahertz emission sharply peaked at the difference frequency. Our results demonstrate a new fundamental process of THz quantum optics and highlight analogies and differences between excitonic and atomic systems. [1] R. A. Kaindl et al., Nature 423, 734 (2003). [2] M. Kubouchi et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 94, 016403 (2005). [3] R. Huber et al., Phys. Rev. Lett., to appear.

Resonant features of the terahertz generation in semiconductor nanowires

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

Trukhin, V. N., E-mail: valera.truchin@mail.ioffe.ru; Bouravleuv, A. D.; Mustafin, I. A.

2016-12-15

The paper presents the results of experimental studies of the generation of terahertz radiation in periodic arrays of GaAs nanowires via excitation by ultrashort optical pulses. It is found that the generation of THz radiation exhibits resonant behavior due to the resonant excitation of cylindrical modes in the nanowires. At the optimal geometric parameters of the nanowire array, the generation efficiency is found to be higher than that for bulk p-InAs, which is one of the most effective coherent terahertz emitters.

LASER APPLICATIONS AND OTHER TOPICS IN QUANTUM ELECTRONICS: Measurement of the surface wavelength distribution of narrow-band radiation by a colorimetric method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kraiskii, A. V.; Mironova, T. V.; Sultanov, T. T.

2010-09-01

A method is suggested for determining the wavelength of narrow-band light from a digital photograph of a radiating surface. The digital camera used should be appropriately calibrated. The accuracy of the wavelength measurement is better than 1 nm. The method was tested on the yellow doublet of mercury spectrum and on the adjacent continuum of the incandescent lamp radiation spectrum. By means of the method suggested the homogeneity of holographic sensor swelling was studied in stationary and transient cases.

Narrow-band injection seeding of a terahertz frequency quantum cascade laser: Selection and suppression of longitudinal modes

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

Nong, Hanond, E-mail: Nong.Hanond@rub.de; Markmann, Sergej; Hekmat, Negar

2014-09-15

A periodically poled lithium niobate (PPLN) crystal with multiple poling periods is used to generate tunable narrow-bandwidth THz pulses for injection seeding a quantum cascade laser (QCL). We demonstrate that longitudinal modes of the quantum cascade laser close to the gain maximum can be selected or suppressed according to the seed spectrum. The QCL emission spectra obtained by electro-optic sampling from the quantum cascade laser, in the most favorable case, shows high selectivity and amplification of the longitudinal modes that overlap the frequency of the narrow-band seed. Proper selection of the narrow-band THz seed from the PPLN crystal discretely tunesmore » the longitudinal mode emission of the quantum cascade laser. Moreover, the THz wave build-up within the laser cavity is studied as a function of the round-trip time. When the seed frequency is outside the maximum of the gain spectrum the laser emission shifts to the preferential longitudinal mode.« less

Terahertz Quantum Cascade Laser With Efficient Coupling and Beam Profile

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chattopadhyay, Goutam; Kawamura, Jonathan H.; Lin, Robert H.; Williams, Benjamin

2012-01-01

Quantum cascade lasers (QCLs) are unipolar semiconductor lasers, where the wavelength of emitted radiation is determined by the engineering of quantum states within the conduction band in coupled multiple-quantum-well heterostructures to have the desired energy separation. The recent development of terahertz QCLs has provided a new generation of solid-state sources for radiation in the terahertz frequency range. Terahertz QCLs have been demonstrated from 0.84 to 5.0 THz both in pulsed mode and continuous wave mode (CW mode). The approach employs a resonant-phonon depopulation concept. The metal-metal (MM) waveguide fabrication is performed using Cu-Cu thermo-compression bonding to bond the GaAs/AlGaAs epitaxial layer to a GaAs receptor wafer.

Single-shot terahertz time-domain spectroscopy in pulsed high magnetic fields

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

Noe, II, G. Timothy; Katayama, Ikufumi; Katsutani, Fumiya

Here, we have developed a single-shot terahertz time-domain spectrometer to perform optical-pump/terahertz-probe experiments in pulsed, high magnetic fields up to 30 T. The single-shot detection scheme for measuring a terahertz waveform incorporates a reflective echelon to create time-delayed beamlets across the intensity profile of the optical gate beam before it spatially and temporally overlaps with the terahertz radiation in a ZnTe detection crystal. After imaging the gate beam onto a camera, we can retrieve the terahertz time-domain waveform by analyzing the resulting image. To demonstrate the utility of our technique, we measured cyclotron resonance absorption of optically excited carriers inmore » the terahertz frequency range in intrinsic silicon at high magnetic fields, with results that agree well with published values.« less

Single-shot terahertz time-domain spectroscopy in pulsed high magnetic fields

DOE PAGES

Noe, II, G. Timothy; Katayama, Ikufumi; Katsutani, Fumiya; ...

2016-12-22

Here, we have developed a single-shot terahertz time-domain spectrometer to perform optical-pump/terahertz-probe experiments in pulsed, high magnetic fields up to 30 T. The single-shot detection scheme for measuring a terahertz waveform incorporates a reflective echelon to create time-delayed beamlets across the intensity profile of the optical gate beam before it spatially and temporally overlaps with the terahertz radiation in a ZnTe detection crystal. After imaging the gate beam onto a camera, we can retrieve the terahertz time-domain waveform by analyzing the resulting image. To demonstrate the utility of our technique, we measured cyclotron resonance absorption of optically excited carriers inmore » the terahertz frequency range in intrinsic silicon at high magnetic fields, with results that agree well with published values.« less

Investigation of broadband terahertz generation from metasurface

DOE PAGES

Fang, Ming; Niu, Kaikun; Huang, ZHixiang; ...

2018-01-01

The nonlinear metamaterials have been shown to provide nonlinear properties with high nonlinear conversion efficiency and in a myriad of light manipulation. Here we study terahertz generation from nonlinear metasurface consisting of single layer nanoscale split-ring resonator array. The terahertz generation due to optical rectification by the second-order nonlinearity of the split-ring resonator is investigated by a time-domain implementation of the hydrodynamic model for electron dynamics in metal. The results show that the nonlinear metasurface enables us to generate broadband terahertz radiation and free from quasi-phase-matching conditions. The proposed scheme provides a new concept of broadband THz source and designingmore » nonlinear plasmonic metamaterials.« less

Investigation of broadband terahertz generation from metasurface

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

Fang, Ming; Niu, Kaikun; Huang, ZHixiang

The nonlinear metamaterials have been shown to provide nonlinear properties with high nonlinear conversion efficiency and in a myriad of light manipulation. Here we study terahertz generation from nonlinear metasurface consisting of single layer nanoscale split-ring resonator array. The terahertz generation due to optical rectification by the second-order nonlinearity of the split-ring resonator is investigated by a time-domain implementation of the hydrodynamic model for electron dynamics in metal. The results show that the nonlinear metasurface enables us to generate broadband terahertz radiation and free from quasi-phase-matching conditions. The proposed scheme provides a new concept of broadband THz source and designingmore » nonlinear plasmonic metamaterials.« less

Investigation of broadband terahertz generation from metasurface

DOE PAGES

Fang, Ming; Niu, Kaikun; Huang, ZHixiang; ...

2018-05-21

The nonlinear metamaterials have been shown to provide nonlinear properties with high nonlinear conversion efficiency and in a myriad of light manipulation. Here we study terahertz generation from nonlinear metasurface consisting of single layer nanoscale split-ring resonator array. The terahertz generation due to optical rectification by the second-order nonlinearity of the split-ring resonator is investigated by a time-domain implementation of the hydrodynamic model for electron dynamics in metal. The results show that the nonlinear metasurface enables us to generate broadband terahertz radiation and free from quasi-phase-matching conditions. The proposed scheme provides a new concept of broadband THz source and designingmore » nonlinear plasmonic metamaterials.« less

Terahertz Radiation from Laser Created Plasma by Applying a Transverse Static Electric Field

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fukuda, Takuya; Katahira, Koji; Yugami, Noboru; Sentoku, Yasuhiko; Sakagami, Hitoshi; Nagatomo, Hideo

2016-10-01

Terahertz (THz) radiation, which is emitted in narrow cone in the forward direction from laser created plasma has been observed by N.Yugami et al.. Additionally, Löffler et al. have observed that a significantly increased THz emission intensity in the forward direction when the transverse static electric field is applied to the plasma. The purpose of our study is to derive the mechanism of the THz radiation from laser created plasma by applying the transverse static electric field. To study the radiation mechanism, we conducted 2D-PIC simulation. With the static electric field of 10 kV/cm and gas density of 1020 cm-3, we obtain 1.2 THz single cycle pulse radiation, whose intensity is 1.3 ×105 W/cm2. The magnetic field called ``picket fence mode'' is generated in the laser created plasma. At the boundary surface between the plasma and vacuum, the magnetic field is canceled because eddy current flows. We conclude that the temporal behavior of the magnetic field at the boundary surface radiates the THz wave.

Terahertz Radiation: A Non-contact Tool for the Selective Stimulation of Biological Responses in Human Cells

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-01-01

computational and empirical dosimetric tools [31]. For the computational dosimetry, we employed finite-dif- ference time- domain (FDTD) modeling techniques to...temperature-time data collected for a well exposed to THz radiation using finite-difference time- domain (FDTD) modeling techniques and thermocouples... like )). Alter- ation in the expression of such genes underscores the signif- 62 IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON TERAHERTZ SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, VOL. 6, NO. 1

Ultra-broadband near-field antenna for terahertz plasmonic applications

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

Polischuk, O. V., E-mail: polischuk.sfire@mail.ru; Popov, V. V., E-mail: popov-slava@yahoo.co.uk; Knap, W.

A new type of ultra-broadband near-field antenna for terahertz frequencies is proposed. This antenna is a short-period planar metal array. It is theoretically shown that irradiation of the short-period array antenna by a plane homogeneous terahertz waves excite a highly inhomogeneous near electric field near the metal array. In this case, the amplitude of the excited inhomogeneous near electric field is almost independent of frequency in the entire terahertz frequency range. The excitation of plasma oscillations in a two-dimensional electron system using the antenna under study is numerically simulated in the resonant and non-resonant plasmonic response modes. This type ofmore » antenna can be used for developing ultra-broadband plasmonic detectors of terahertz radiation.« less

FDTD-based quantitative analysis of terahertz wave detection for multilayered structures.

PubMed

Tu, Wanli; Zhong, Shuncong; Shen, Yaochun; Zhou, Qing; Yao, Ligang

2014-10-01

Experimental investigations have shown that terahertz pulsed imaging (TPI) is able to quantitatively characterize a range of multilayered media (e.g., biological issues, pharmaceutical tablet coatings, layered polymer composites, etc.). Advanced modeling of the interaction of terahertz radiation with a multilayered medium is required to enable the wide application of terahertz technology in a number of emerging fields, including nondestructive testing. Indeed, there have already been many theoretical analyses performed on the propagation of terahertz radiation in various multilayered media. However, to date, most of these studies used 1D or 2D models, and the dispersive nature of the dielectric layers was not considered or was simplified. In the present work, the theoretical framework of using terahertz waves for the quantitative characterization of multilayered media was established. A 3D model based on the finite difference time domain (FDTD) method is proposed. A batch of pharmaceutical tablets with a single coating layer of different coating thicknesses and different refractive indices was modeled. The reflected terahertz wave from such a sample was computed using the FDTD method, assuming that the incident terahertz wave is broadband, covering a frequency range up to 3.5 THz. The simulated results for all of the pharmaceutical-coated tablets considered were found to be in good agreement with the experimental results obtained using a commercial TPI system. In addition, we studied a three-layered medium to mimic the occurrence of defects in the sample.

Highly efficient broadband terahertz generation from ultrashort laser filamentation in liquids.

PubMed

Dey, Indranuj; Jana, Kamalesh; Fedorov, Vladimir Yu; Koulouklidis, Anastasios D; Mondal, Angana; Shaikh, Moniruzzaman; Sarkar, Deep; Lad, Amit D; Tzortzakis, Stelios; Couairon, Arnaud; Kumar, G Ravindra

2017-10-30

Generation and application of energetic, broadband terahertz pulses (bandwidth ~0.1-50 THz) is an active and contemporary area of research. The main thrust is toward the development of efficient sources with minimum complexities-a true table-top setup. In this work, we demonstrate the generation of terahertz radiation via ultrashort pulse induced filamentation in liquids-a counterintuitive observation due to their large absorption coefficient in the terahertz regime. The generated terahertz energy is more than an order of magnitude higher than that obtained from the two-color filamentation of air (the most standard table-top technique). Such high terahertz energies would generate electric fields of the order of MV cm -1 , which opens the doors for various nonlinear terahertz spectroscopic applications. The counterintuitive phenomenon has been explained via the solution of nonlinear pulse propagation equation in the liquid medium.

A microfabricated low-profile wideband antenna array for terahertz communications.

PubMed

Luk, K M; Zhou, S F; Li, Y J; Wu, F; Ng, K B; Chan, C H; Pang, S W

2017-04-28

While terahertz communications are considered to be the future solutions for the increasing demands on bandwidth, terahertz equivalents of radio frequency front-end components have not been realized. It remains challenging to achieve wideband, low profile antenna arrays with highly directive beams of radiation. Here, based on the complementary antenna approach, a wideband 2 × 2 cavity-backed slot antenna array with a corrugated surface is proposed. The approach is based on a unidirectional antenna with a cardiac radiation pattern and stable frequency characteristics that is achieved by integrating a series-resonant electric dipole with a parallel-resonant magnetic dipole. In this design, the slots work as magnetic dipoles while the corrugated surface radiates as an array of electric dipoles. The proposed antenna is realized at 1 THz operating frequency by stacking multiple metallized layers using the microfabrication technology. S-parameter measurements of this terahertz low-profile metallic antenna array demonstrate high efficiency at terahertz frequencies. Fractional bandwidth and gain are measured to be 26% and 14 dBi which are consistent with the simulated results. The proposed antenna can be used as the building block for larger antenna arrays with more directive beams, paving the way to develop high gain low-profile antennas for future communication needs.

Microfabricated Circuits for Terahertz Wave Amplification and Terahertz Biosensors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fawole, Olutosin Charles

The terahertz frequency band extends from deep infrared (100 THz) down to millimeter waves (0.4 THz), and this band was mostly inaccessible due to the lack of appropriate sources and detectors. Those with access to this band had to endure the small-intensity pulsed signals (nanowatts to microwatts) that the terahertz sources of those times could provide. In recent years, however, sufficient development has led to the availability of terahertz sources with sufficient power (1-100 muW) and the ease of use these sources has in turn enabled researchers to develop newer sources, detectors, and application areas. The terahertz regime is interesting because a) many molecules have vibrational, rotation and transition absorption bands in this regime, b) the terahertz electromagnetic wavelength is sufficiently small to resolve centimeter to millimeter scale objects, and c) scattering and absorption in metals in the terahertz regime make it very challenging to devise terahertz signal processing circuits. Thus, performing terahertz reflection/transmission measurements may enable precise identification of chemicals in a sample. Furthermore, small wavelengths and strong scattering by metallic objects make imaging with terahertz waves quite attractive. Finally, the ability to devise terahertz communication circuits and links will provide access to a frequency domain that is restricted and not available to others. One of the main objectives of this work is to develop 0.75 - 1.1 terahertz (free space wavelength 272 mum - 400 ?mum) amplifiers. Another objective of this work is to explore the suitability of terahertz waves in biological imaging and sensing. The terahertz amplifiers developed in this work consisted of distributed components such as rectangular waveguides and cylindrical dielectric resonators. In contrast to discrete amplifiers, which are based on solid-state devices, distributed traveling wave amplifiers can potentially handle and produce larger powers. Three

Significant performance enhancement in photoconductive terahertz optoelectronics by incorporating plasmonic contact electrodes.

PubMed

Berry, C W; Wang, N; Hashemi, M R; Unlu, M; Jarrahi, M

2013-01-01

Even though the terahertz spectrum is well suited for chemical identification, material characterization, biological sensing and medical imaging, practical development of these applications has been hindered by attributes of existing terahertz optoelectronics. Here we demonstrate that the use of plasmonic contact electrodes can significantly mitigate the low-quantum efficiency performance of photoconductive terahertz optoelectronics. The use of plasmonic contact electrodes offers nanoscale carrier transport path lengths for the majority of photocarriers, increasing the number of collected photocarriers in a subpicosecond timescale and, thus, enhancing the optical-to-terahertz conversion efficiency of photoconductive terahertz emitters and the detection sensitivity of photoconductive terahertz detectors. We experimentally demonstrate 50 times higher terahertz radiation powers from a plasmonic photoconductive emitter in comparison with a similar photoconductive emitter with non-plasmonic contact electrodes, as well as 30 times higher terahertz detection sensitivities from a plasmonic photoconductive detector in comparison with a similar photoconductive detector with non-plasmonic contact electrodes.

Mechanism and modulation of terahertz generation from a semimetal - graphite

PubMed Central

Ye, Tong; Meng, Sheng; Zhang, Jin; E, Yiwen; Yang, Yuping; Liu, Wuming; Yin, Yan; Wang, Li

2016-01-01

Semi-metals might offer a stronger interaction and a better confinement for terahertz wave than semiconductors, while preserve tunability. Particularly, graphene-based materials are envisioned as terahertz modulators, filters and ultra-broadband sources. However, the understanding of terahertz generation from those materials is still not clear, thus limits us recognizing the potential and improving device performances. Graphite, the mother material of graphene and a typical bulk semi-metal, is a good system to study semi-metals and graphene-based materials. Here we experimentally modulate and maximize the terahertz signal from graphite surface, thus reveal the mechanism - surface field driving photon induced carriers into transient current to radiate terahertz wave. We also discuss the differences between graphite and semiconductors; particularly graphite shows very weak temperature dependency from room temperature to 80 °C. Above knowledge will help us understand terahertz generations, achieve maximum output and electric modulation, in semi-metal or graphene based devices. PMID:26972818

Mechanism and modulation of terahertz generation from a semimetal--graphite.

PubMed

Ye, Tong; Meng, Sheng; Zhang, Jin; E, Yiwen; Yang, Yuping; Liu, Wuming; Yin, Yan; Wang, Li

2016-03-14

Semi-metals might offer a stronger interaction and a better confinement for terahertz wave than semiconductors, while preserve tunability. Particularly, graphene-based materials are envisioned as terahertz modulators, filters and ultra-broadband sources. However, the understanding of terahertz generation from those materials is still not clear, thus limits us recognizing the potential and improving device performances. Graphite, the mother material of graphene and a typical bulk semi-metal, is a good system to study semi-metals and graphene-based materials. Here we experimentally modulate and maximize the terahertz signal from graphite surface, thus reveal the mechanism--surface field driving photon induced carriers into transient current to radiate terahertz wave. We also discuss the differences between graphite and semiconductors; particularly graphite shows very weak temperature dependency from room temperature to 80 °C. Above knowledge will help us understand terahertz generations, achieve maximum output and electric modulation, in semi-metal or graphene based devices.

Wide-aperture total absorption of a terahertz wave in a nanoperiodic graphene-based plasmon structure

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

Polischuk, O. V., E-mail: polischuk.sfire@mail.ru; Melnikova, V. S.; Popov, V. V., E-mail: popov-slava@yahoo.co.uk

2016-11-15

The terahertz absorption spectrum in a periodic array of graphene nanoribbons located on the surface of a dielectric substrate with a high refractive index (terahertz prism) is studied theoretically. The total absorption of terahertz radiation is shown to occur in the regime of total internal reflection of the terahertz wave from the periodic array of graphene nanoribbons, at the frequencies of plasma oscillations in graphene, in a wide range of incidence angles of the external terahertz wave even at room temperature.

Terahertz Spectroscopy for Chemical Detection and Burn Characterization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arbab, Mohammad Hassan

Terahertz (THz) frequencies represent the last frontier of the electromagnetic spectrum to be investigated by scientists. One of the main attractions of investigating this frequency range is the richness of the spectral information that can be obtained using a Terahertz Time-Domain Spectroscopy (THz-TDS) setup. Many large molecule chemicals and polymers have vibrational and rotational modes in the THz frequencies. Study of these resonance modes has revealed a wealth of new information about the intermolecular structure, and its transformation during crystallization or polymerization process. This information helps researchers develop new materials to address problems such as efficient energy conversion in polymer solar cells. Moreover, similar signature-like terahertz modes can be used for stand-off identification of substances or for nondestructive evaluation of defects in industrial applications. Finally, terahertz spectroscopy has the potential to provide a safe and non-ionizing imaging modality to study cellular and molecular events in biological and biomedical applications. The high sensitivity of terahertz waves to attenuation by both bound and free water molecules can also provides a source of signal contrast for many future biomedical imaging and diagnostic applications. In this dissertation, we aim to study and develop three such applications of terahertz spectroscopy, which form the three axes of our work: rough-surface scattering mediated stand-off detection of chemicals, characterization of burn injuries using terahertz radiation, and a new electrically tunable bandpass filter device incorporating nano-material transparent electrodes that can enable fast terahertz spectroscopy in the frequency domain.

Simultaneous Noncontact Precision Imaging of Microstructural and Thickness Variation in Dielectric Materials Using Terahertz Energy

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Roth, Donald J (Inventor)

2011-01-01

A process for simultaneously measuring the velocity of terahertz electromagnetic radiation in a dielectric material sample without prior knowledge of the thickness of the sample and for measuring the thickness of a material sample using terahertz electromagnetic radiation in a material sample without prior knowledge of the velocity of the terahertz electromagnetic radiation in the sample is disclosed and claimed. The process evaluates, in a plurality of locations, the sample for microstructural variations and for thickness variations and maps the microstructural and thickness variations by location. A thin sheet of dielectric material may be used on top of the sample to create a dielectric mismatch. The approximate focal point of the radiation source (transceiver) is initially determined for good measurements.

Graphene-based magnetless converter of terahertz wave polarization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Melnikova, Veronica S.; Polischuk, Olga V.; Popov, Vyacheslav V.

2016-04-01

The polarization conversion of terahertz radiation by the periodic array of graphene nanoribbons located at the surface of a high-refractive-index dielectric substrate (terahertz prism) is studied theoretically. Giant polarization conversion at the plasmon resonance frequencies takes place without applying external DC magnetic field. It is shown that the total polarization conversion can be reached at the total internal reflection of THz wave from the periodic array of graphene nanoribbons even at room temperature.

Terahertz NDE of Stressed Composite Overwrapped Pressure Vessels - Initial Testing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Madaras, Eric I.; Seebo, Jeffrey P.; Anatasi, Robert F.

2009-01-01

Terahertz radiation nondestructive evaluation was applied to a set of Kevlar composite overwrapped pressure vessel bottles that had undergone a series of thermal and pressure tests to simulate stress rupture effects. The bottles in these nondestructive evaluation tests were bottles that had not ruptured but had survived various times at the elevated load and temperature levels. Some of the bottles showed evidence of minor composite failures. The terahertz radiation did detect visible surface flaws, but did not detect any internal chemical or material degradation of the thin overwraps.

WGM Resonators for Terahertz-to-Optical Frequency Conversion

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Strekalov,Dmitry; Savchenkov, Anatoliy; Matsko, Andrey; Nu, Nan

2008-01-01

Progress has been made toward solving some practical problems in the implementation of terahertz-to-optical frequency converters utilizing whispering-gallery-mode (WGM) resonators. Such frequency converters are expected to be essential parts of non-cryogenic terahertz- radiation receivers that are, variously, under development or contemplated for a variety of applications in airborne and spaceborne instrumentation for astronomical and military uses. In most respects, the basic principles of terahertz-to-optical frequency conversion in WGM resonators are the same as those of microwave (sub-terahertz)-to-optical frequency conversion in WGM resonators, various aspects of which were discussed in the three preceeding articles. To recapitulate: In a receiver following this approach, a preamplified incoming microwave signal (in the present case, a terahertz signal) is up-converted to an optical signal by a technique that exploits the nonlinearity of the electromagnetic response of a whispering-gallery-mode (WGM) resonator made of LiNbO3 or another suitable electro-optical material. Upconversion takes place by three-wave mixing in the resonator. To ensure the required interaction among the optical and terahertz signals, the WGM resonator must be designed and fabricated to function as an electro-optical modulator while simultaneously exhibiting (1) resonance at the required microwave and optical operating frequencies and (2) phase matching among the microwave and optical signals circulating in the resonator. Downstream of the WGM resonator, the up-converted signal is processed photonically by use of a tunable optical filter or local oscillator and is then detected. The practical problems addressed in the present development effort are the following: Satisfaction of the optical and terahertz resonance-frequency requirement is a straightforward matter, inasmuch as the optical and terahertz spectra can be measured. However, satisfaction of the phase-matching requirement is

Design of a terahertz photonic crystal transmission filter containing ferroelectric material.

PubMed

King, Tzu-Chyang; Chen, Jian-Jie; Chang, Kai-Chun; Wu, Chien-Jang

2016-10-10

The ferroelectric material KTaO₃ (KTO) has a very high refractive index, which is advantageous to the photonic crystal (PC) design. KTO polycrystalline crystal has a high extinction coefficient. In this work, we perform a theoretical study of the transmission properties of a PC bandpass filter made of polycrystalline KTO at terahertz (THz) frequencies. Our results show that the defect modes of usual PC narrowband filters no longer exist because of the existence of the high loss. We provide a new PC structure for the high-extinction materials and show that it has defect modes in its transmittance spectra, providing a possible bandpass filter design in the THz region.

Emission of terahertz waves in the interaction of a laser pulse with clusters

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

Frolov, A. A., E-mail: frolov@ihed.ras.ru

2016-07-15

A theory of generation of terahertz radiation in the interaction of a femtosecond laser pulse with a spherical cluster is developed for the case in which the density of free electrons in the cluster plasma exceeds the critical value. The spectral, angular, and energy characteristics of the emitted terahertz radiation are investigated, as well as its spatiotemporal structure. It is shown that the directional pattern of radiation has a quadrupole structure and that the emission spectrum has a broad maximum at a frequency nearly equal to the reciprocal of the laser pulse duration. It is found that the total radiatedmore » energy depends strongly on the cluster size. Analysis of the spatiotemporal profile of the terahertz signal shows that it has a femtosecond duration and contains only two oscillation cycles.« less

Waveform-controlled terahertz radiation from the air filament produced by few-cycle laser pulses.

PubMed

Bai, Ya; Song, Liwei; Xu, Rongjie; Li, Chuang; Liu, Peng; Zeng, Zhinan; Zhang, Zongxin; Lu, Haihe; Li, Ruxin; Xu, Zhizhan

2012-06-22

Waveform-controlled terahertz (THz) radiation is of great importance due to its potential application in THz sensing and coherent control of quantum systems. We demonstrated a novel scheme to generate waveform-controlled THz radiation from air plasma produced when carrier-envelope-phase (CEP) stabilized few-cycle laser pulses undergo filamentation in ambient air. We launched CEP-stabilized 10 fs-long (~1.7 optical cycles) laser pulses at 1.8 μm into air and found that the generated THz waveform can be controlled by varying the filament length and the CEP of driving laser pulses. Calculations using the photocurrent model and including the propagation effects well reproduce the experimental results, and the origins of various phase shifts in the filament are elucidated.

Cherenkov emission of terahertz surface plasmon polaritons from a superluminal optical spot on a structured metal surface.

PubMed

Bakunov, M I; Tsarev, M V; Hangyo, M

2009-05-25

We propose to launch terahertz surface plasmon polaritons on a structured metal surface by using a femtosecond laser pulse obliquely incident on a strip of an electro-optic material deposited on the surface. The laser pulse creates a nonlinear polarization that moves along the strip with a superluminal velocity and emits surface terahertz waves via the Cherenkov radiation mechanism. We calculate the radiated fields and frequency distribution of the radiated energy for a grooved perfect-conductor surface with a GaAs strip illuminated by Ti:sapphire laser. This technique can be used to perform surface terahertz spectroscopy.

Superiority of terahertz over infrared transmission through bandages and burn wound ointments

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

Suen, Jonathan Y., E-mail: j.suen@duke.edu; Padilla, Willie J.

Terahertz electromagnetic waves have long been proposed to be ideal for spectroscopy and imaging through non-polar dielectric materials that contain no water. Terahertz radiation may thus be useful for monitoring burn and wound injury recovery, as common care treatments involve application of both a clinical dressing and topical ointment. Here, we investigate the optical properties of typical care treatments in the millimeter wave (150–300 GHz), terahertz (0.3–3 THz), and infrared (14.5–0.67 μm) ranges of the electromagnetic spectrum. We find that THz radiation realizes low absorption coefficients and high levels of transmission compared to infrared wavelengths, which were strongly attenuated. Terahertz imaging canmore » enable safe, non-ionizing, noninvasive monitoring of the healing process directly through clinical dressings and recovery ointments, minimizing the frequency of dressing changes and thus increasing the rate of the healing process.« less

High density terahertz frequency comb produced by coherent synchrotron radiation

PubMed Central

Tammaro, S.; Pirali, O.; Roy, P.; Lampin, J.-F.; Ducournau, G.; Cuisset, A.; Hindle, F.; Mouret, G.

2015-01-01

Frequency combs have enabled significant progress in frequency metrology and high-resolution spectroscopy extending the achievable resolution while increasing the signal-to-noise ratio. In its coherent mode, synchrotron radiation is accepted to provide an intense terahertz continuum covering a wide spectral range from about 0.1 to 1 THz. Using a dedicated heterodyne receiver, we reveal the purely discrete nature of this emission. A phase relationship between the light pulses leads to a powerful frequency comb spanning over one decade in frequency. The comb has a mode spacing of 846 kHz, a linewidth of about 200 Hz, a fractional precision of about 2 × 10−10 and no frequency offset. The unprecedented potential of the comb for high-resolution spectroscopy is demonstrated by the accurate determination of pure rotation transitions of acetonitrile. PMID:26190043

Terahertz NDE for Metallic Surface Roughness Evaluation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Madaras, Eric I.; Anastasi, Robert F.

2006-01-01

Metallic surface roughness in a nominally smooth surface is a potential indication of material degradation or damage. When the surface is coated or covered with an opaque dielectric material, such as paint or insulation, then inspecting for surface changes becomes almost impossible. Terahertz NDE is a method capable of penetrating the coating and inspecting the metallic surface. The terahertz frequency regime is between 100 GHz and 10 THz and has a free space wavelength of 300 micrometers at 1 THz. Pulsed terahertz radiation, can be generated and detected using optical excitation of biased semiconductors with femtosecond laser pulses. The resulting time domain signal is 320 picoseconds in duration. In this application, samples are inspected with a commercial terahertz NDE system that scans the sample and generates a set of time-domain signals that are a function of the backscatter from the metallic surface. Post processing is then performed in the time and frequency domains to generate C-scan type images that show scattering effects due to surface non-uniformity.

Terahertz ptychography.

PubMed

Valzania, Lorenzo; Feurer, Thomas; Zolliker, Peter; Hack, Erwin

2018-02-01

We realized a phase retrieval technique using terahertz (THz) radiation as an alternative to THz digital holography, named THz ptychography. Ptychography has been used in x-ray imaging as a groundbreaking improvement of conventional coherent diffraction imaging. Here we show that ptychography can be performed at THz frequencies too. We reconstructed an amplitude and a phase object with both simulated and real data. Lateral resolution accounts to <2λ, while depth variations as low as λ/30 can be assessed.

The potential of terahertz imaging for cancer diagnosis: A review of investigations to date.

PubMed

Yu, Calvin; Fan, Shuting; Sun, Yiwen; Pickwell-Macpherson, Emma

2012-03-01

The terahertz region lies between the microwave and infrared regions of the electromagnetic spectrum such that it is strongly attenuated by water and very sensitive to water content. Terahertz radiation has very low photon energy and thus it does not pose any ionization hazard for biological tissues. Because of these characteristic properties, there has been an increasing interest in terahertz imaging and spectroscopy for biological applications within the last few years and more and more terahertz spectra are being reported, including spectroscopic studies of cancer. The presence of cancer often causes increased blood supply to affected tissues and a local increase in tissue water content may be observed: this acts as a natural contrast mechanism for terahertz imaging of cancer. Furthermore the structural changes that occur in affected tissues have also been shown to contribute to terahertz image contrast. This paper introduces terahertz technology and provides a short review of recent advances in terahertz imaging and spectroscopy techniques. In particular investigations relating to the potential of terahertz imaging and spectroscopy for cancer diagnosis will be highlighted.

The potential of terahertz imaging for cancer diagnosis: A review of investigations to date

PubMed Central

Yu, Calvin; Fan, Shuting; Sun, Yiwen; Pickwell-MacPherson, Emma

2012-01-01

The terahertz region lies between the microwave and infrared regions of the electromagnetic spectrum such that it is strongly attenuated by water and very sensitive to water content. Terahertz radiation has very low photon energy and thus it does not pose any ionization hazard for biological tissues. Because of these characteristic properties, there has been an increasing interest in terahertz imaging and spectroscopy for biological applications within the last few years and more and more terahertz spectra are being reported, including spectroscopic studies of cancer. The presence of cancer often causes increased blood supply to affected tissues and a local increase in tissue water content may be observed: this acts as a natural contrast mechanism for terahertz imaging of cancer. Furthermore the structural changes that occur in affected tissues have also been shown to contribute to terahertz image contrast. This paper introduces terahertz technology and provides a short review of recent advances in terahertz imaging and spectroscopy techniques. In particular investigations relating to the potential of terahertz imaging and spectroscopy for cancer diagnosis will be highlighted. PMID:23256057

Single-cycle powerful megawatt to gigawatt terahertz pulse radiated from a wavelength-scale plasma oscillator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Hui-Chun; Sheng, Zheng-Ming; Zhang, Jie

2008-04-01

We propose a scheme to generate single-cycle powerful terahertz (THz) pulses by ultrashort intense laser pulses obliquely incident on an underdense plasma slab of a few THz wavelengths in thickness. THz waves are radiated from a transient net current driven by the laser ponderomotive force in the plasma slab. Analysis and particle-in-cell simulations show that such a THz source is capable of providing power of megawatts to gigawatts, field strength of MV/cm-GV/cm, and broad tunability range, which is potentially useful for nonlinear and high-field THz science and applications.

Transmission mode terahertz computed tomography

DOEpatents

Ferguson, Bradley Stuart; Wang, Shaohong; Zhang, Xi-Cheng

2006-10-10

A method of obtaining a series of images of a three-dimensional object by transmitting pulsed terahertz (THz) radiation through the entire object from a plurality of angles, optically detecting changes in the transmitted THz radiation using pulsed laser radiation, and constructing a plurality of imaged slices of the three-dimensional object using the detected changes in the transmitted THz radiation. The THz radiation is transmitted through the object as a scanning spot. The object is placed within the Rayleigh range of the focused THz beam and a focusing system is used to transfer the imaging plane from adjacent the object to a desired distance away from the object. A related system is also disclosed.

Terahertz emission from ultrafast spin-charge current at a Rashba interface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Qi; Jungfleisch, Matthias Benjamin; Zhang, Wei; Pearson, John E.; Wen, Haidan; Hoffmann, Axel

Ultrafast broadband terahertz (THz) radiation is highly desired in various fields from fundamental research in condensed matter physics to bio-chemical detection. Conventional ultrafast THz sources rely on either nonlinear optical effects or ultrafast charge currents in semiconductors. Recently, however, it was realized that ultrabroad-band THz radiation can be produced highly effectively by novel spintronics-based emitters that also make use of the electron's spin degree of freedom. Those THz-emitters convert a spin current flow into a terahertz electromagnetic pulse via the inverse spin-Hall effect. In contrast to this bulk conversion process, we demonstrate here that a femtosecond spin current pulse launched from a CoFeB layer can also generate terahertz transients efficiently at a two-dimensional Rashba interface between two non-magnetic materials, i.e., Ag/Bi. Those interfaces have been proven to be efficient means for spin- and charge current interconversion.

Glassy dynamics of sorbitol solutions at terahertz frequencies.

PubMed

Sibik, Juraj; Shalaev, Evgenyi Y; Zeitler, J Axel

2013-07-28

The absorption spectra of D-sorbitol and a range of its concentrated aqueous solutions were studied by terahertz spectroscopy over the temperature interval of 80 K < T < 310 K. It is shown that the slow-down of molecules at around the glass transition temperature, Tg, dramatically influences the thermal dependence of the absorption at terahertz frequencies. Furthermore, two different absorption regimes are revealed below Tg: at temperatures well below Tg, the absorption resembles the coupling of terahertz radiation to the vibrational density of states (VDOS); above these temperatures, between 160 K and Tg, in the sample of pure sorbitol and the sample of a solution of 70 wt% sorbitol in water, another type of absorption is observed at terahertz frequencies. Several possibilities of the physical origin of this absorption are discussed and based on the experimental data this process is tentatively assigned to the Johari-Goldstein β-relaxation processes shifting to lower frequencies at temperatures below Tg leaving behind a spectrum largely dominated by losses into the VDOS.

Investigating the effects of terahertz radiation on Bacillus subtilis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Giles, Jillian P.; Raitt, Brittany J.; Joseph, Cecil S.; Hines, Mark E.; Giles, Robert H.

2012-03-01

Medical and security sensing applications of Terahertz (THz) imaging are currently being developed. As a result, there is a need to further investigate the effects of THz radiation on biological systems. In this study, a 94 GHz mechanically tuned Gunn Oscillator was used to irradiate Bacillus subtilis at 94 GHz. The bacteria were cultured in trypticase soy broth (TSB) and placed in polystyrene 96 well plates. The samples where irradiated during the exponential growth phase for 1, 2, and 24 hours. Both the experimental and control plates were kept at room temperature (~25°C) and were monitored for the duration of the experiment using thermocouples interfaced with a computer via Labview software. By evaluating the absorption of each well at 600nm immediately before and after irradiation, the population density within each well was assessed. Following this, the metabolic activity of each well was measured after irradiation by adding tetrazolium dye, XTT, to the wells and evaluating the absorption of each well at 490nm after 2 hours of incubation.

Application of Terahertz Radiation to Soil Measurements: Initial Results

PubMed Central

Dworak, Volker; Augustin, Sven; Gebbers, Robin

2011-01-01

Developing soil sensors with the possibility of continuous online measurement is a major challenge in soil science. Terahertz (THz) electromagnetic radiation may provide the opportunity for the measurement of organic material density, water content and other soil parameters at different soil depths. Penetration depth and information content is important for a functional soil sensor. Therefore, we present initial research on the analysis of absorption coefficients of four different soil samples by means of THz transmission measurements. An optimized soil sample holder to determine absorption coefficients was used. This setup improves data acquisition because interface reflections can be neglected. Frequencies of 340 GHz to 360 GHz and 1.627 THz to 2.523 THz provided information about an existing frequency dependency. The results demonstrate the potential of this THz approach for both soil analysis and imaging of buried objects. Therefore, the THz approach allows different soil samples to be distinguished according to their different absorption properties so that relations among soil parameters may be established in future. PMID:22163737

Coherent and Tunable Terahertz Radiation from Graphene Surface Plasmon Polarirons Excited by Cyclotron Electron Beam

PubMed Central

Zhao, Tao; Gong, Sen; Hu, Min; Zhong, Renbin; Liu, Diwei; Chen, Xiaoxing; Zhang, Ping; Wang, Xinran; Zhang, Chao; Wu, Peiheng; Liu, Shenggang

2015-01-01

Terahertz (THz) radiation can revolutionize modern science and technology. To this date, it remains big challenges to develop intense, coherent and tunable THz radiation sources that can cover the whole THz frequency region either by means of only electronics (both vacuum electronics and semiconductor electronics) or of only photonics (lasers, for example, quantum cascade laser). Here we present a mechanism which can overcome these difficulties in THz radiation generation. Due to the natural periodicity of 2π of both the circular cylindrical graphene structure and cyclotron electron beam (CEB), the surface plasmon polaritions (SPPs) dispersion can cross the light line of dielectric, making transformation of SPPs into radiation immediately possible. The dual natural periodicity also brings significant excellences to the excitation and the transformation. The fundamental and hybrid SPPs modes can be excited and transformed into radiation. The excited SPPs propagate along the cyclotron trajectory together with the beam and gain energy from the beam continuously. The radiation density is enhanced over 300 times, up to 105 W/cm2. The radiation frequency can be widely tuned by adjusting the beam energy or chemical potential. This mechanism opens a way for developing desired THz radiation sources to cover the whole THz frequency regime. PMID:26525516

Single-silicon CCD-CMOS platform for multi-spectral detection from terahertz to x-rays.

PubMed

Shalaby, Mostafa; Vicario, Carlo; Hauri, Christoph P

2017-11-15

Charge-coupled devices (CCDs) are a well-established imaging technology in the visible and x-ray frequency ranges. However, the small quantum photon energies of terahertz radiation have hindered the use of this mature semiconductor technological platform in this frequency range, leaving terahertz imaging totally dependent on low-resolution bolometer technologies. Recently, it has been shown that silicon CCDs can detect terahertz photons at a high field, but the detection sensitivity is limited. Here we show that silicon, complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) technology offers enhanced detection sensitivity of almost two orders of magnitude, compared to CCDs. Our findings allow us to extend the low-frequency terahertz cutoff to less than 2 THz, nearly closing the technological gap with electronic imagers operating up to 1 THz. Furthermore, with the silicon CCD/CMOS technology being sensitive to mid-infrared (mid-IR) and the x-ray ranges, we introduce silicon as a single detector platform from 1 EHz to 2 THz. This overcomes the present challenge in spatially overlapping a terahertz/mid-IR pump and x-ray probe radiation at facilities such as free electron lasers, synchrotron, and laser-based x-ray sources.

Nonlinear optical detection of terahertz-wave radiation from resonant tunneling diodes.

PubMed

Takida, Yuma; Nawata, Kouji; Suzuki, Safumi; Asada, Masahiro; Minamide, Hiroaki

2017-03-06

The sensitive detection of terahertz (THz)-wave radiation from compact sources at room temperature is crucial for real-world THz-wave applications. Here, we demonstrate the nonlinear optical detection of THz-wave radiation from continuous-wave (CW) resonant tunneling diodes (RTDs) at 0.58, 0.78, and 1.14 THz. The up-conversion process in a MgO:LiNbO₃ crystal under the noncollinear phase-matching condition offers efficient wavelength conversion from a THz wave to a near-infrared (NIR) wave that is detected using a commercial NIR photodetector. The minimum detection limit of CW THz-wave power is as low as 5 nW at 1.14 THz, corresponding to 2-aJ energy and 2.7 × 10³ photons within the time window of a 0.31-ns pump pulse. Our results show that the input frequency and power of RTD devices can be calibrated by measuring the output wavelength and energy of up-converted waves, respectively. This optical detection technique for compact electronic THz-wave sources will open up a new opportunity for the realization of real-world THz-wave applications.

Terahertz radiation from accelerating charge carriers in graphene under ultrafast photoexcitation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rustagi, Avinash; Stanton, C. J.

2016-11-01

We study the generation of terahertz (THz) radiation from the acceleration of ultrafast photoexcited charge carriers in graphene in the presence of a dc electric field. Our model is based on calculating the transient current density from the time-dependent distribution function which is determined using the Boltzmann transport equation (BTE) within a relaxation time approximation. We include the time-dependent generation of carriers by the pump pulse by solving for the carrier generation rate using the optical Bloch equations in the rotating wave approximation (RWA). The linearly polarized pump pulse generates an anisotropic distribution of photoexcited carriers in the kx-ky plane. The collision integral in the Boltzmann equation includes a term that leads to the thermalization of carriers via carrier-carrier scattering to an effective temperature above the lattice temperature, as well as a cooling term, which leads to energy relaxation via inelastic carrier-phonon scattering. The radiated signal is proportional to the time derivative of the transient current density. In spite of the fact that the magnitude of the velocity is the same for all the carriers in graphene, there is still emitted radiation from the photoexcited charge carriers with frequency components in the THz range due to a change in the direction of velocity of the photoexcited carriers in the external electric field as well as cooling of the photoexcited carriers on a subpicosecond time scale.

A metamaterial terahertz modulator based on complementary planar double-split-ring resonator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Chang-hui; Kuang, Deng-feng; Chang, Sheng-jiang; Lin, Lie

2013-07-01

A metamaterial based on complementary planar double-split-ring resonator (DSRR) structure is presented and demonstrated, which can optically tune the transmission of the terahertz (THz) wave. Unlike the traditional DSRR metamaterials, the DSRR discussed in this paper consists of two split rings connected by two bridges. Numerical simulations with the finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method reveal that the transmission spectra of the original and the complementary metamaterials are both in good agreement with Babinet's principle. Then by increasing the carrier density of the intrinsic GaAs substrate, the magnetic response of the complementary special DSRR metamaterial can be weakened or even turned off. This metamaterial structure is promised to be a narrow-band THz modulator with response time of several nanoseconds.

Homogeneous spectral spanning of terahertz semiconductor lasers with radio frequency modulation.

PubMed

Wan, W J; Li, H; Zhou, T; Cao, J C

2017-03-08

Homogeneous broadband and electrically pumped semiconductor radiation sources emitting in the terahertz regime are highly desirable for various applications, including spectroscopy, chemical sensing, and gas identification. In the frequency range between 1 and 5 THz, unipolar quantum cascade lasers employing electron inter-subband transitions in multiple-quantum-well structures are the most powerful semiconductor light sources. However, these devices are normally characterized by either a narrow emission spectrum due to the narrow gain bandwidth of the inter-subband optical transitions or an inhomogeneous broad terahertz spectrum from lasers with heterogeneous stacks of active regions. Here, we report the demonstration of homogeneous spectral spanning of long-cavity terahertz semiconductor quantum cascade lasers based on a bound-to-continuum and resonant phonon design under radio frequency modulation. At a single drive current, the terahertz spectrum under radio frequency modulation continuously spans 330 GHz (~8% of the central frequency), which is the record for single plasmon waveguide terahertz lasers with a bound-to-continuum design. The homogeneous broadband terahertz sources can be used for spectroscopic applications, i.e., GaAs etalon transmission measurement and ammonia gas identification.

Homogeneous spectral spanning of terahertz semiconductor lasers with radio frequency modulation

PubMed Central

Wan, W. J.; Li, H.; Zhou, T.; Cao, J. C.

2017-01-01

Homogeneous broadband and electrically pumped semiconductor radiation sources emitting in the terahertz regime are highly desirable for various applications, including spectroscopy, chemical sensing, and gas identification. In the frequency range between 1 and 5 THz, unipolar quantum cascade lasers employing electron inter-subband transitions in multiple-quantum-well structures are the most powerful semiconductor light sources. However, these devices are normally characterized by either a narrow emission spectrum due to the narrow gain bandwidth of the inter-subband optical transitions or an inhomogeneous broad terahertz spectrum from lasers with heterogeneous stacks of active regions. Here, we report the demonstration of homogeneous spectral spanning of long-cavity terahertz semiconductor quantum cascade lasers based on a bound-to-continuum and resonant phonon design under radio frequency modulation. At a single drive current, the terahertz spectrum under radio frequency modulation continuously spans 330 GHz (~8% of the central frequency), which is the record for single plasmon waveguide terahertz lasers with a bound-to-continuum design. The homogeneous broadband terahertz sources can be used for spectroscopic applications, i.e., GaAs etalon transmission measurement and ammonia gas identification. PMID:28272492

Suggested design of gold-nanoobjects-based terahertz radiation source for biomedical research

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Postnikov, A. V.; Moldosanov, K. A.

2018-07-01

Gold nanoparticles (GNPs) may serve as devices to emit electromagnetic radiation in the terahertz (THz) range, whereby the energy is delivered by radio frequency or microwave photons which will not by themselves induce transitions between sparse confinement-shaped electron levels of a GNP, but may borrow the energy from longitudinal acoustic (LA) phonons to overcome the confinement gap. Upon excitation, the Fermi electron cannot relax otherwise than via emitting a THz photon, the other relaxation channels being blocked by force of shape and size considerations. Within this general scope that has already been outlined earlier, the present work specifically discusses two-phonon processes, namely (i) a combined absorption–emission of two phonons from the top of the LA branch, and (ii) an absorption of two such phonons with nearly identical wavevectors. The case (i) may serve as a source of soft THz radiation (at ≃0.54 THz), the case (ii) the hard THz radiation at 8.7 THz. Numerical estimates are done for crystalline particles in the shape of rhombicuboctahedra, of 5–7 nm size. A technical realisation of this idea is briefly discussed, assuming the deposition of GNPs onto/within the substrate of Teflon®, the material sustaining high temperatures and transparent in the THz range.

Suggested design of gold-nanoobjects-based terahertz radiation source for biomedical research.

PubMed

Postnikov, A V; Moldosanov, K A

2018-04-18

Gold nanoparticles (GNPs) may serve as devices to emit electromagnetic radiation in the terahertz (THz) range, whereby the energy is delivered by radio frequency or microwave photons which will not by themselves induce transitions between sparse confinement-shaped electron levels of a GNP, but may borrow the energy from longitudinal acoustic (LA) phonons to overcome the confinement gap. Upon excitation, the Fermi electron cannot relax otherwise than via emitting a THz photon, the other relaxation channels being blocked by force of shape and size considerations. Within this general scope that has already been outlined earlier, the present work specifically discusses two-phonon processes, namely (i) a combined absorption-emission of two phonons from the top of the LA branch, and (ii) an absorption of two such phonons with nearly identical wavevectors. The case (i) may serve as a source of soft THz radiation (at ≃0.54 THz), the case (ii) the hard THz radiation at 8.7 THz. Numerical estimates are done for crystalline particles in the shape of rhombicuboctahedra, of 5-7 nm size. A technical realisation of this idea is briefly discussed, assuming the deposition of GNPs onto/within the substrate of Teflon ® , the material sustaining high temperatures and transparent in the THz range.

Manifestation of plasmonic response in the detection of sub-terahertz radiation by graphene-based devices.

PubMed

Gayduchenko, I A; Fedorov, G E; Moskotin, M V; Yagodkin, D I; Seliverstov, S V; Goltsman, G N; Yu Kuntsevich, A; Rybin, M G; Obraztsova, E D; Leiman, V G; Shur, M S; Otsuji, T; Ryzhii, V I

2018-06-15

We report on the sub-terahertz (THz) (129-450 GHz) photoresponse of devices based on single layer graphene and graphene nanoribbons with asymmetric source and drain (vanadium and gold) contacts. Vanadium forms a barrier at the graphene interface, while gold forms an Ohmic contact. We find that at low temperatures (77 K) the detector responsivity rises with the increasing frequency of the incident sub-THz radiation. We interpret this result as a manifestation of a plasmonic effect in the devices with the relatively long plasmonic wavelengths. Graphene nanoribbon devices display a similar pattern, albeit with a lower responsivity.

Manifestation of plasmonic response in the detection of sub-terahertz radiation by graphene-based devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gayduchenko, I. A.; Fedorov, G. E.; Moskotin, M. V.; Yagodkin, D. I.; Seliverstov, S. V.; Goltsman, G. N.; Kuntsevich, A. Yu; Rybin, M. G.; Obraztsova, E. D.; Leiman, V. G.; Shur, M. S.; Otsuji, T.; Ryzhii, V. I.

2018-06-01

We report on the sub-terahertz (THz) (129–450 GHz) photoresponse of devices based on single layer graphene and graphene nanoribbons with asymmetric source and drain (vanadium and gold) contacts. Vanadium forms a barrier at the graphene interface, while gold forms an Ohmic contact. We find that at low temperatures (77 K) the detector responsivity rises with the increasing frequency of the incident sub-THz radiation. We interpret this result as a manifestation of a plasmonic effect in the devices with the relatively long plasmonic wavelengths. Graphene nanoribbon devices display a similar pattern, albeit with a lower responsivity.

Numerical simulation of terahertz generation and detection based on ultrafast photoconductive antennas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Long-chao; Fan, Wen-hui

2011-08-01

The numerical simulation of terahertz generation and detection in the interaction between femtosecond laser pulse and photoconductive material has been reported in this paper. The simulation model based on the Drude-Lorentz theory is used, and takes into account the phenomena that photo-generated electrons and holes are separated by the external bias field, which is screened by the space-charge field simultaneously. According to the numerical calculation, the terahertz time-domain waveforms and their Fourier-transformed spectra are presented under different conditions. The simulation results indicate that terahertz generation and detection properties of photoconductive antennas are largely influenced by three major factors, including photo-carriers' lifetime, laser pulse width and pump laser power. Finally, a simple model has been applied to simulate the detected terahertz pulses by photoconductive antennas with various photo-carriers' lifetimes, and the results show that the detected terahertz spectra are very different from the spectra radiated from the emitter.

Efficient terahertz wave generation from GaP crystals pumped by chirp-controlled pulses from femtosecond photonic crystal fiber amplifier

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

Li, Jiang; Shi, Junkai; Xu, Baozhong

2014-01-20

A chirp-tunable femtosecond 10 W, 42 MHz photonic-crystal-fiber oscillator-amplifier system that is capable of delivering sub-60 fs light pulses at 1040 nm is used to demonstrate high-efficiency terahertz radiation generation via optical rectification in GaP crystals only a few millimeters in length. The optimization of the chirp of the fiber-laser pulses is shown to radically enhance the terahertz output, indicating one possible way to more efficiently use these extended nonlinear crystals in compact fiber-pumped terahertz radiation sources.

Influence of the electron density on the characteristics of terahertz waves generated under laser–cluster interaction

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

Frolov, A. A., E-mail: frolov@ihed.ras.ru

2016-12-15

A theory of generation of terahertz radiation under laser–cluster interaction, developed earlier for an overdense cluster plasma [A. A. Frolov, Plasma Phys. Rep. 42. 637 (2016)], is generalized for the case of arbitrary electron density. The spectral composition of radiation is shown to substantially depend on the density of free electrons in the cluster. For an underdense cluster plasma, there is a sharp peak in the terahertz spectrum at the frequency of the quadrupole mode of a plasma sphere. As the electron density increases to supercritical values, this spectral line vanishes and a broad maximum at the frequency comparable withmore » the reciprocal of the laser pulse duration appears in the spectrum. The dependence of the total energy of terahertz radiation on the density of free electrons is analyzed. The radiation yield is shown to increase significantly under resonance conditions, when the laser frequency is close to the eigenfrequency of the dipole or quadrupole mode of a plasma sphere.« less

Terahertz plasmonic lasers with narrow beams and large tunability

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jin, Yuan; Wu, Chongzhao; Reno, John L.; Kumar, Sushil

2017-02-01

Plasmonic lasers generate coherent long-range or localized surface-plasmon-polaritons (SPPs), where the SPP mode exists at the interface of the metal (or a metallic nanoparticle) and a dielectric. Metallic-cavities sup- porting SPP modes are also utilized for terahertz quantum-cascade lasers (QCLs). Due to subwavelength apertures, plasmonic lasers have highly divergent radiation patterns. Recently, we theoretically and experimentally demonstrated a new technique for implementing distributed-feedback (DFB), which is termed as an antenna- feedback scheme, to establish a hybrid SPP mode in the surrounding medium of a plasmonic laser's cavity with a large wavefront. This technique allows such lasers to radiate in narrow beams without requirement of any specific design considerations for phase-matching. Experimental demonstration is done for terahertz QCLs that show beam-divergence as small as 4-degrees. The antenna-feedback scheme has a characteristic feature in that refractive-index of the laser's surrounding medium affects its radiative frequency in the same vein as refractive- index of the cavity. Hence, any perturbations in the refractive-index of the surrounding medium could lead to large modulation in the laser's emission frequency. Along this line, we report 57 GHz reversible, continuous, and mode-hop-free tuning of such QCLs operating at 78 K based on post-process deposition/etching of a dielectric on an already mounted QCL chip. This is the largest tuning range achieved for terahertz QCLs when operating much above the temperature of liquid-Helium. We review the aforementioned experimental results and discuss methods to increase optical power output from terahertz QCLs with antenna-feedback. Peak power output of 13 mW is realized for a 3.3 THz QCL operating in a Stirling cooler at 54 K. A new dual-slit photonic structure based on antenna-feedback scheme is proposed to further improve output power as well as provide enhanced tunability.

The 2017 terahertz science and technology roadmap

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

Dhillon, S. S.; Vitiello, M. S.; Linfield, E. H.

Science and technologies based on terahertz frequency electromagnetic radiation (100 GHz–30 THz) have developed rapidly over the last 30 years. For most of the 20th Century, terahertz radiation, then referred to as sub-millimeter wave or far-infrared radiation, was mainly utilized by astronomers and some spectroscopists. Following the development of laser based terahertz time-domain spectroscopy in the 1980s and 1990s the field of THz science and technology expanded rapidly, to the extent that it now touches many areas from fundamental science to 'real world' applications. For example THz radiation is being used to optimize materials for new solar cells, and maymore » also be a key technology for the next generation of airport security scanners. While the field was emerging it was possible to keep track of all new developments, however now the field has grown so much that it is increasingly difficult to follow the diverse range of new discoveries and applications that are appearing. At this point in time, when the field of THz science and technology is moving from an emerging to a more established and interdisciplinary field, it is apt to present a roadmap to help identify the breadth and future directions of the field. The aim of this roadmap is to present a snapshot of the present state of THz science and technology in 2017, and provide an opinion on the challenges and opportunities that the future holds. To be able to achieve this aim, we have invited a group of international experts to write 18 sections that cover most of the key areas of THz science and technology. We hope that The 2017 Roadmap on THz science and technology will prove to be a useful resource by providing a wide ranging introduction to the capabilities of THz radiation for those outside or just entering the field as well as providing perspective and breadth for those who are well established. Lastly, we also feel that this review should serve as a useful guide for government and funding

The 2017 terahertz science and technology roadmap

DOE PAGES

Dhillon, S. S.; Vitiello, M. S.; Linfield, E. H.; ...

2017-01-04

Science and technologies based on terahertz frequency electromagnetic radiation (100 GHz–30 THz) have developed rapidly over the last 30 years. For most of the 20th Century, terahertz radiation, then referred to as sub-millimeter wave or far-infrared radiation, was mainly utilized by astronomers and some spectroscopists. Following the development of laser based terahertz time-domain spectroscopy in the 1980s and 1990s the field of THz science and technology expanded rapidly, to the extent that it now touches many areas from fundamental science to 'real world' applications. For example THz radiation is being used to optimize materials for new solar cells, and maymore » also be a key technology for the next generation of airport security scanners. While the field was emerging it was possible to keep track of all new developments, however now the field has grown so much that it is increasingly difficult to follow the diverse range of new discoveries and applications that are appearing. At this point in time, when the field of THz science and technology is moving from an emerging to a more established and interdisciplinary field, it is apt to present a roadmap to help identify the breadth and future directions of the field. The aim of this roadmap is to present a snapshot of the present state of THz science and technology in 2017, and provide an opinion on the challenges and opportunities that the future holds. To be able to achieve this aim, we have invited a group of international experts to write 18 sections that cover most of the key areas of THz science and technology. We hope that The 2017 Roadmap on THz science and technology will prove to be a useful resource by providing a wide ranging introduction to the capabilities of THz radiation for those outside or just entering the field as well as providing perspective and breadth for those who are well established. Lastly, we also feel that this review should serve as a useful guide for government and funding

The 2017 terahertz science and technology roadmap

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dhillon, S. S.; Vitiello, M. S.; Linfield, E. H.; Davies, A. G.; Hoffmann, Matthias C.; Booske, John; Paoloni, Claudio; Gensch, M.; Weightman, P.; Williams, G. P.; Castro-Camus, E.; Cumming, D. R. S.; Simoens, F.; Escorcia-Carranza, I.; Grant, J.; Lucyszyn, Stepan; Kuwata-Gonokami, Makoto; Konishi, Kuniaki; Koch, Martin; Schmuttenmaer, Charles A.; Cocker, Tyler L.; Huber, Rupert; Markelz, A. G.; Taylor, Z. D.; Wallace, Vincent P.; Axel Zeitler, J.; Sibik, Juraj; Korter, Timothy M.; Ellison, B.; Rea, S.; Goldsmith, P.; Cooper, Ken B.; Appleby, Roger; Pardo, D.; Huggard, P. G.; Krozer, V.; Shams, Haymen; Fice, Martyn; Renaud, Cyril; Seeds, Alwyn; Stöhr, Andreas; Naftaly, Mira; Ridler, Nick; Clarke, Roland; Cunningham, John E.; Johnston, Michael B.

2017-02-01

Science and technologies based on terahertz frequency electromagnetic radiation (100 GHz-30 THz) have developed rapidly over the last 30 years. For most of the 20th Century, terahertz radiation, then referred to as sub-millimeter wave or far-infrared radiation, was mainly utilized by astronomers and some spectroscopists. Following the development of laser based terahertz time-domain spectroscopy in the 1980s and 1990s the field of THz science and technology expanded rapidly, to the extent that it now touches many areas from fundamental science to ‘real world’ applications. For example THz radiation is being used to optimize materials for new solar cells, and may also be a key technology for the next generation of airport security scanners. While the field was emerging it was possible to keep track of all new developments, however now the field has grown so much that it is increasingly difficult to follow the diverse range of new discoveries and applications that are appearing. At this point in time, when the field of THz science and technology is moving from an emerging to a more established and interdisciplinary field, it is apt to present a roadmap to help identify the breadth and future directions of the field. The aim of this roadmap is to present a snapshot of the present state of THz science and technology in 2017, and provide an opinion on the challenges and opportunities that the future holds. To be able to achieve this aim, we have invited a group of international experts to write 18 sections that cover most of the key areas of THz science and technology. We hope that The 2017 Roadmap on THz science and technology will prove to be a useful resource by providing a wide ranging introduction to the capabilities of THz radiation for those outside or just entering the field as well as providing perspective and breadth for those who are well established. We also feel that this review should serve as a useful guide for government and funding agencies.

On the transmission of terahertz radiation through silicon-based structures

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

Persano, Anna, E-mail: anna.persano@le.imm.cnr.it; Francioso, Luca; Cola, Adriano

2014-07-28

We report on the transmission of a terahertz (THz) radiation through prototype structures based on a p-type silicon substrate. In particular, the bare substrate and progressively more complicated multilayer structures were investigated, allowing to address the effect on the transmission of different factors, such as the orientation of interdigitated contacts with respect to the polarized beam, the temperature, and the current flowing through a conductive SnO{sub 2} nanorods layer. A suitable experimental set-up was developed for the direct spectral measurement of transmission in the range of 0.75–1.1 THz at room and low temperatures. A simple Drude-Lorentz model was formulated, findingmore » a quantitative agreement with the experimental transmission spectrum of the bare substrate at room temperature. For the multilayer structures, the spectra variations observed with temperature are well accounted by the corresponding change of the mobility of holes in the silicon p-type substrate. The influence of the contact orientation is consistent with that of a polarizing metallic grating. Finally, Joule heating effects are observed in the spectra performed as a function of the current flowing through the SnO{sub 2} nanorods layer. The experimental results shown here, together with their theoretical interpretation, provide insights for the development of devices fabricated on conductive substrates aimed to absorb/modulate radiation in the THz range.« less

Terahertz Sideband-tuned Quantum Cascade Laser Radiation

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-03-31

resolution of 2 MHz in CW regime was observed. ©2008 Optical Society of America OCIS codes: (140.5965) Semiconductor lasers , quantum cascade...diode,” Opt. Lett. 29, 1632 (2004). 6. A. Baryshev, et.al., “ Phase locking and spectral linewidth of a two-mode terahertz quantum cascade laser ,” Appl... optically pumped gas laser . With further improvements in power and spatial mode quality, it should be possible to lock a TQCL to the harmonic of an ultra

Enhanced terahertz magnetic dipole response by subwavelength fiber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Atakaramians, Shaghik; Shadrivov, Ilya V.; Miroshnichenko, Andrey E.; Stefani, Alessio; Ebendorff-Heidepriem, Heike; Monro, Tanya M.; Afshar V., Shahraam

2018-05-01

Dielectric sub-wavelength particles have opened up a new platform for realization of magnetic light. Recently, we have demonstrated that a dipole emitter by a sub-wavelength fiber leads to an enhanced magnetic response. Here, we experimentally demonstrate an enhanced magnetic dipole source in the terahertz frequency range. By placing the fiber next to the hole in a metal screen, we find that the radiation power can be enhanced more than one order of magnitude. The enhancement is due to the excitation of the Mie-type resonances in the fiber. We demonstrate that such a system is equivalent to a double-fiber system excited by a magnetic source. This coupled magnetic dipole and optical fiber system can be considered a unit cell of metasurfaces for manipulation of terahertz radiation and is a proof-of-concept of a possibility to achieve enhanced radiation of a dipole source in proximity of a sub-wavelength fiber. It can also be scaled down to optical frequencies opening up promising avenues for developing integrated nanophotonic devices such as nanoantennas or lasers on fibers.

Terahertz radiation generation by beating of two laser beams in a collisional plasma with oblique magnetic field

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hematizadeh, Ayoob; Jazayeri, Seyed Masud; Ghafary, Bijan

2018-02-01

A scheme for excitation of terahertz (THz) radiation is presented by photo mixing of two super-Gaussian laser beams in a rippled density collisional magnetized plasma. Lasers having different frequencies and wave numbers but the same electric fields create a ponderomotive force on the electrons of plasma in the beating frequency. Super-Gaussian laser beam has the exclusive features such as steep gradient in laser intensity distribution, wider cross-section in comparison with Gaussian profiles, which make stronger ponderomotive force and higher THz radiation. The magnetic field is considered oblique to laser beams propagation direction; in this case, depending on the phase matching conditions different mode waves can propagate in plasma. It is found that amplitude and efficiency of the emitted THz radiation not only are sensitive to the beating frequency, collision frequency, and magnetic field strength but to the angle between laser beams and static magnetic field. The efficiency of THz radiation can be optimized in a certain angle.

Subwavelength hybrid terahertz waveguides.

PubMed

Nam, Sung Hyun; Taylor, Antoinette J; Efimov, Anatoly

2009-12-07

We introduce and present general properties of hybrid terahertz waveguides. Weakly confined Zenneck waves on a metal-dielectric interface at terahertz frequencies can be transformed to a strongly confined yet low-loss subwavelength mode through coupling with a photonic mode of a nearby high-index dielectric strip. We analyze confinement, attenuation, and dispersion properties of this mode. The proposed design is suitable for planar integration and allows easy fabrication on chip scale. The superior waveguiding properties at terahertz frequencies could enable the hybrid terahertz waveguides as building blocks for terahertz integrated circuits.

Phase-locking to a free-space terahertz comb for metrological-grade terahertz lasers.

PubMed

Consolino, L; Taschin, A; Bartolini, P; Bartalini, S; Cancio, P; Tredicucci, A; Beere, H E; Ritchie, D A; Torre, R; Vitiello, M S; De Natale, P

2012-01-01

Optical frequency comb synthesizers have represented a revolutionary approach to frequency metrology, providing a grid of frequency references for any laser emitting within their spectral coverage. Extending the metrological features of optical frequency comb synthesizers to the terahertz domain would be a major breakthrough, due to the widespread range of accessible strategic applications and the availability of stable, high-power and widely tunable sources such as quantum cascade lasers. Here we demonstrate phase-locking of a 2.5 THz quantum cascade laser to a free-space comb, generated in a LiNbO(3) waveguide and covering the 0.1-6 THz frequency range. We show that even a small fraction (<100 nW) of the radiation emitted from the quantum cascade laser is sufficient to generate a beat note suitable for phase-locking to the comb, paving the way to novel metrological-grade terahertz applications, including high-resolution spectroscopy, manipulation of cold molecules, astronomy and telecommunications.

In vitro terahertz monitoring of muscle tissue dehydration under the action of hyperosmotic agents

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

Kolesnikov, A S; Kolesnikova, E A; Popov, A P

2014-07-31

Dehydration of muscle tissue in vitro under the action of biologically compatible hyperosmotic agents is studied using a laser terahertz spectrometer in the frequency range from 0.25 to 2.5 THz. Broadband terahertz absorption and reflection spectra of the bovine skeletal muscle tissue were obtained under the action of glycerol, polyethylene glycol with the molecular weight 600 (PEG-600), and propylene glycol. The presented results are proposed for application in developing the methods of image contrast enhancement and increasing the depth of biological tissue probing with terahertz radiation. (laser biophotonics)

Characterization of ErAs:GaAs and LuAs:GaAs Superlattice Structures for Continuous-Wave Terahertz Wave Generation through Plasmonic Photomixing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Shang-Hua; Salas, Rodolfo; Krivoy, Erica M.; Nair, Hari P.; Bank, Seth R.; Jarrahi, Mona

2016-07-01

We investigate the impact of ErAs:GaAs and LuAs:GaAs superlattice structures with different LuAs/ErAs nanoparticle depositions and superlattice geometries on terahertz radiation properties of plasmonic photomixers operating at a 780-nm optical wavelength. Our analysis indicates the crucial impact of carrier drift velocity and carrier lifetime on the performance of plasmonic photomixers. While higher carrier drift velocities enable higher optical-to-terahertz conversion efficiencies by offering higher quantum efficiencies, shorter carrier lifetimes allow achieving higher optical-to-terahertz conversion efficiencies by mitigating the negative impact of destructive terahertz radiation from slow photocarriers and preventing the carrier screening effect.

Terahertz absorption and emission upon the photoionization of acceptors in uniaxially stressed silicon

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

Zhukavin, R. Kh., E-mail: zhur@ipmras.ru; Kovalevsky, K. A.; Orlov, M. L.

2016-11-15

Experimental data on the spontaneous emission and absorption modulation in boron-doped silicon under CO{sub 2} laser excitation depending on the uniaxial stress applied along the [001] and [011] crystallographic directions are presented. Room-temperature radiation is used as the probe radiation. Low stress (less than 0.5 kbar) is shown to reduce losses in the terahertz region by 20%. The main contribution to absorption modulation at zero and low stress is made by A{sup +} centers. Intersubband free hole transitions additionally contribute to terahertz absorption at higher stress. These contributions can be minimized by compensation.

Development of intense terahertz coherent synchrotron radiation at KU-FEL

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sei, Norihiro; Zen, Heishun; Ohgaki, Hideaki

2016-10-01

We produced intense coherent synchrotron radiation (CSR) in the terahertz (THz) region using an S-band linac at the Kyoto University Free Electron Laser (KU-FEL), which is a mid-infrared free-electron laser facility. The CSR beam was emitted from short-pulse electron bunches compressed by a 180° arc, and was transferred to air at a large solid angle of 0.10 rad. The measured CSR energy was 55 μJ per 7 μs macropulse, and KU-FEL was one of the most powerful CSR sources in normal conducting linear accelerator facilities. The CSR spectra were measured using an uncooled pyroelectric detector and a Michelson-type interferometer designed specifically for the KU-FEL electron beam, and had a maximum at a frequency of 0.11 THz. We found that adjusting the energy slit enhanced the CSR energy and shortened the electron beam bunch length in the CSR spectra measurements. Our results demonstrated that the efficient use of the energy slit can help improve the characteristics of CSR.

Narrow-band erbium-doped fibre linear–ring laser

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

Kolegov, A A; Sofienko, G S; Minashina, L A

2014-01-31

We have demonstrated a narrow-band linear – ring fibre laser with an output power of 15 mW at a wavelength of 1.55 μm and an emission bandwidth less than 5 kHz. The laser frequency is stabilised by an unpumped active fibre section and fibre Bragg grating. The fibre laser operates in a travelling wave mode, which allows the spatial hole burning effect to be avoided. At a certain pump power level, the laser switches from continuous mode to repetitivepulse operation, corresponding to relaxation oscillations. (control of laser radiation parameters)

Spectroscopic Study of Terahertz Generation in Mid-Infrared Quantum Cascade Lasers.

PubMed

Jiang, Yifan; Vijayraghavan, Karun; Jung, Seungyong; Jiang, Aiting; Kim, Jae Hyun; Demmerle, Frederic; Boehm, Gerhard; Amann, Markus C; Belkin, Mikhail A

2016-02-16

Terahertz quantum cascade laser sources based on intra-cavity difference-frequency generation are currently the only room-temperature mass-producible diode-laser-like emitters of coherent 1-6 THz radiation. Device performance has improved dramatically over the past few years to reach milliwatt-level power output and broad tuning from 1.2 to 5.9 THz, all at room-temperature. Terahertz output in these sources originates from intersubband optical nonlinearity in the laser active region. Here we report the first comprehensive spectroscopic study of the optical nonlinearity and investigate its dependence on the mid-infrared pump frequencies. Our work shows that the terahertz generation efficiency can vary by a factor of 2 or greater depending on the spectral position of the mid-infrared pumps for a fixed THz difference-frequency. We have also measured for the first time the linewidth for transitions between the lower quantum cascade laser states, which is critical for determining terahertz nonlinearity and predicting optical loss in quantum cascade laser waveguides.

WGM-Based Photonic Local Oscillators and Modulators

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Matsko, Andrey; Maleki, Lute; Iltchenko, Vladimir; Savchenkov, Anatoliy

2007-01-01

Photonic local oscillators and modulators that include whispering-gallery mode (WGM) optical resonators have been proposed as power-efficient devices for generating and detecting radiation at frequencies of the order of a terahertz. These devices are intended especially to satisfy anticipated needs for receivers capable of detecting lowpower, narrow-band terahertz signals to be used for sensing substances of interest in scientific and military applications. At present, available terahertz-signal detectors are power-inefficient and do not afford the spectral and amplitude resolution needed for detecting such signals. The proposed devices would not be designed according to the conventional approach of direct detection of terahertz radiation. Instead, terahertz radiation would first be up-converted into the optical domain, wherein signals could be processed efficiently by photonic means and detected by optical photodetectors, which are more efficient than are photodetectors used in conventional direct detection of terahertz radiation. The photonic devices used to effect the up-conversion would include a tunable optical local oscillator and a novel electro-optical modulator. A local oscillator according to the proposal would be a WGM-based modelocked laser operating at a desired pulserepetition rate of the order of a terahertz. The oscillator would include a terahertz optical filter based on a WGM microresonator, a fiber-optic delay line, an optical amplifier (which could be either a semiconductor optical amplifier or an erbium-doped optical fiberamplifier), and a WGM Ka-band modulator. The terahertz repetition rate would be obtained through harmonic mode locking: for example, by modulating the light at a frequency of 33 GHz and locking each 33d optical mode, one would create a 1.089-THz pulse train. The high resonance quality factors (Q values) of WGM optical resonators should make it possible to decrease signal-generation threshold power levels significantly below

Terahertz photoluminescence from S.I.-GaAs by below gap excitation via EL2 level

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

Oyama, Yutaka, E-mail: oyama@material.tohoku.ac.jp; Dezaki, Hikari; Shimizu, Yusaku

2015-01-12

Terahertz emission by radiative transitions in semi-conductors via shallow impurity states is investigated. We report on the observation of terahertz photoluminescence from S.I.-GaAs by below gap excitation via EL2 level which is located at the center of band gap. In order to investigate the terahertz wave emission mechanisms, the emission spectra and temperature dependence of the emission intensity are evaluated. It is shown that intense terahertz emission from S.I.-GaAs over 120 K is observed due to the thermal recovery of photo-quenched EL2 meta-stable state, and that the emission peak frequency looks to be attributed to the shallow level energy in GaAs.

Terahertz beam switching by electrical control of graphene-enabled tunable metasurface.

PubMed

Zhang, Yin; Feng, Yijun; Zhao, Junming; Jiang, Tian; Zhu, Bo

2017-10-26

Controlling the terahertz wave, especially the dynamical and full control of terahertz wavefront, is highly demanded due to the increasing development of practical devices and application systems. Recently considerable efforts have been made to fill the 'terahertz gap' with the help of artificial metamaterial or metasurface incorporated with graphene material. Here, we propose a scheme to design tunable metasurface consisting of metallic patch array on a grounded polymer substrate embedded with graphene layers to electrically control the electromagnetic beam reflection at terahertz frequency. By adjusting geometric dimension of the patch elements, 360 degree reflection phase range may be achieved, thus abrupt phase shifts can be introduced along the metasurface for tailoring the reflected wavefront. Moreover, the reflective phase gradient over the metasurface can be switched between 90 and 360 degree by controlling the Fermi energy of the embedded graphene through voltage biasing, hence dynamically switching the reflective beam directions. Numerical simulations demonstrate that either single beam or dual beam dynamically switching between normal and oblique reflection angles can be well attained at working frequency. The proposed approach will bring much freedom in the design of beam manipulation devices and may be applied to terahertz radiation control.

A Fully-Sealed Carbon-Nanotube Cold-Cathode Terahertz Gyrotron.

PubMed

Yuan, Xuesong; Zhu, Weiwei; Zhang, Yu; Xu, Ningsheng; Yan, Yang; Wu, Jianqiang; Shen, Yan; Chen, Jun; She, Juncong; Deng, Shaozhi

2016-09-09

Gigahertz to terahertz radiation sources based on cold-cathode vacuum electron technology are pursued, because its unique characteristics of instant switch-on and power saving are important to military and space applications. Gigahertz gyrotron was reported using carbon nanotube (CNT) cold-cathode. It is reported here in first time that a fully-sealed CNT cold-cathode 0.22 THz-gyrotron is realized, typically with output power of 500 mW. To achieve this, we have studied mechanisms responsible for CNTs growth on curved shape metal surface, field emission from the sidewall of a CNT, and crystallized interface junction between CNT and substrate material. We have obtained uniform growth of CNTs on and direct growth from cone-cylinder stainless-steel electrode surface, and field emission from both tips and sidewalls of CNTs. It is essential for the success of a CNT terahertz gyrotron to have such high quality, high emitting performance CNTs. Also, we have developed a magnetic injection electron gun using CNT cold-cathode to exploit the advantages of such a conventional gun design, so that a large area emitting surface is utilized to deliver large current for electron beam. The results indicate that higher output power and higher radiation frequency terahertz gyrotron may be made using CNT cold-cathode electron gun.

Coherent two-dimensional terahertz-terahertz-Raman spectroscopy.

PubMed

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

2016-06-21

We present 2D terahertz-terahertz-Raman (2D TTR) spectroscopy, the first technique, to our knowledge, to interrogate a liquid with multiple pulses of terahertz (THz) light. This hybrid approach isolates nonlinear signatures in isotropic media, and is sensitive to the coupling and anharmonicity of thermally activated THz modes that play a central role in liquid-phase chemistry. Specifically, by varying the timing between two intense THz pulses, we control the orientational alignment of molecules in a liquid, and nonlinearly excite vibrational coherences. A comparison of experimental and simulated 2D TTR spectra of bromoform (CHBr3), carbon tetrachloride (CCl4), and dibromodichloromethane (CBr2Cl2) shows previously unobserved off-diagonal anharmonic coupling between thermally populated vibrational modes.

Computational Spectrally Correlated Thermal Radiation through Gaseous Mixture

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lakhal, W.; Trabelsi, S.; Sediki, E.; Soufiani, A.; Moussa, M.

2007-09-01

The Treatment of the spectral nature of thermal radiation in absorbing emitting gases at high temperature inside a heated or cooled duct is presented with taking into account the non-gray behavior of gas. Radiative properties of the flowing gases (H2O or CO2) are modeled by using narrow-band and global models. Although the narrow-band models are considered more accurate, global model are more adequate for combined heat transfer study in complex geometry. Thus, accuracy of narrow-band and global models study is provide. In this investigation, we focus our attention on the practical way to use the Correlated-K narrow-band model in radiative transfer, as the asymptotic limit of accuracy of the global model. Results are presented in terms of radiative power fields.

Terahertz metasurface quantum-cascade VECSELs: theory and performance

DOE PAGES

Xu, Luyao; Curwen, Christopher; Chen, Daguan; ...

2017-04-12

A longstanding challenge for terahertz quantum-cascade (QC) lasers is achieving both a high power and high-quality beam pattern, this is due in part due to their use of sub-wavelength metallic waveguides. Recently, the vertical-external-cavity surface-emitting laser (VECSEL) concept was demonstrated for the first time in the terahertz range and for a QC-laser. This is enabled by the development of an amplifying metasurface reflector capable of coupling incident free-space THz radiation to the QC-laser material such that it is amplified and re-radiated. The THz metasurface QC-VECSEL initiates a new approach for making QC-lasers with high power and excellent beam pattern. Furthermore,more » the ability to engineer the electromagnetic phase, amplitude, and polarization response of the metasurface enables lasers with new functionality. Our article provides an overview of the fundamental theory, design considerations, and recent results for high-performance THz QC-VECSELs.« less

Creating Rydberg electron wave packets using terahertz pulses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bromage, Jake

1999-10-01

In this thesis I present experiments in which we excited classical-limit states of an atom using terahertz pulses. In a classical-limit state, an atom's outer electron is confined to a wave packet that orbits the core along a classical trajectory. Researchers have excited states with classical traits, but wave packets localized in all three dimensions have proved elusive. Theoretical studies have shown such states can be created using terahertz pulses. Using these techniques, we created a linear-orbit wave packet (LOWP), that is three-dimensionally localized and orbits along a line on one side of the atom's core. Terahertz pulses are sub-picosecond bursts of far- infrared radiation. Unlike ultrashort optical pulses, the electric field of terahertz pulses barely completes a single cycle. Our simulations of the atom-pulse interaction show that this electric field profile is critical in determining the quality of the wave packet. To characterize our terahertz pulses, we invented dithered-edge sampling which time- resolves the electric field using a photoconductive receiver and a triggered attenuator. We also studied how pulses are distorted after propagating through metallic structures, and used our findings to design our atomic experiments. We excited wave packets in atomic sodium using a two-step process. First, we used tunable, nanosecond dye lasers to excite an extreme Stark state. Next, we used a terahertz pump pulse to coherently redistribute population among extreme Stark states in neighboring manifolds. Interference between the final states produces a localized, dynamic LOWP. To analyze the LOWP, we ionized it with a stronger terahertz probe pulse, varying the pump-probe delay to map out its motion. We observed two strong LOWP signatures. Changing the static electric field produced small changes (2%) in the orbital period that agreed with our theoretical predictions. Secondly, because the LOWP scatters off the core, the pump-probe signal depended on the

Terahertz photonic crystals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jian, Zhongping

This thesis describes the study of two-dimensional photonic crystals slabs with terahertz time domain spectroscopy. In our study we first demonstrate the realization of planar photonic components to manipulate terahertz waves, and then characterize photonic crystals using terahertz pulses. Photonic crystal slabs at the scale of micrometers are first designed and fabricated free of defects. Terahertz time domain spectrometer generates and detects the electric fields of single-cycle terahertz pulses. By putting photonic crystals into waveguide geometry, we successfully demonstrate planar photonic components such as transmission filters, reflection frequency-selective filters, defects modes as well as superprisms. In the characterization study of out-of-plane properties of photonic crystal slabs, we observe very strong dispersion at low frequencies, guided resonance modes at middle frequencies, and a group velocity anomaly at high frequencies. We employ Finite Element Method and Finite-Difference Time-Domain method to simulate the photonic crystals, and excellent agreement is achieved between simulation results and experimental results.

Distributed source model for the full-wave electromagnetic simulation of nonlinear terahertz generation.

PubMed

Fumeaux, Christophe; Lin, Hungyen; Serita, Kazunori; Withayachumnankul, Withawat; Kaufmann, Thomas; Tonouchi, Masayoshi; Abbott, Derek

2012-07-30

The process of terahertz generation through optical rectification in a nonlinear crystal is modeled using discretized equivalent current sources. The equivalent terahertz sources are distributed in the active volume and computed based on a separately modeled near-infrared pump beam. This approach can be used to define an appropriate excitation for full-wave electromagnetic numerical simulations of the generated terahertz radiation. This enables predictive modeling of the near-field interactions of the terahertz beam with micro-structured samples, e.g. in a near-field time-resolved microscopy system. The distributed source model is described in detail, and an implementation in a particular full-wave simulation tool is presented. The numerical results are then validated through a series of measurements on square apertures. The general principle can be applied to other nonlinear processes with possible implementation in any full-wave numerical electromagnetic solver.

Intense Plasma Waveguide Terahertz Sources for High-Field THz Probe Science with Ultrafast Lasers for Solid State Physics

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-08-25

AFRL-AFOSR-UK-TR-2016-0029 Intense Plasma-Waveguide Terahertz Sources for High-Field THz probe science with ultrafast lasers for Solid State Physics...Plasma-Waveguide Terahertz Sources for High-Field THz probe science with ultrafast lasers for Solid State Physics, 5a.  CONTRACT NUMBER 5b.  GRANT...an existing high energy laser system, has been applied to the study of intense terahertz radiation generated in gaseous plasmas in purpose

Ultra Narrowband Optical Filters for Water Vapor Differential Absorption Lidar (DIAL) Atmospheric Measurements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stenholm, Ingrid; DeYoung, Russell J.

2001-01-01

Differential absorption lidar (DIAL) systems are being deployed to make vertical profile measurements of atmospheric water vapor from ground and airborne platforms. One goal of this work is to improve the technology of such DIAL systems that they could be deployed on space-based platforms. Since background radiation reduces system performance, it is important to reduce it. One way to reduce it is to narrow the bandwidth of the optical receiver system. However, since the DIAL technique uses two or more wavelengths, in this case separated by 0.1 nm, a fixed-wavelength narrowband filter that would encompass both wavelengths would be broader than required for each line, approximately 0.02 nm. The approach employed in this project is to use a pair of tunable narrowband reflective fiber Bragg gratings. The Bragg gratings are germanium-doped silica core fiber that is exposed to ultraviolet radiation to produce index-of-refraction changes along the length of the fiber. The gratings can be tuned by stretching. The backscattered laser radiation is transmitted through an optical circulator to the gratings, reflected back to the optical circulator by one of the gratings, and then sent to a photodiode. The filter reflectivities were >90 percent, and the overall system efficiency was 30 percent.

[An effective method for improving the imaging spatial resolution of terahertz time domain spectroscopy system].

PubMed

Zhang, Zeng-yan; Ji, Te; Zhu, Zhi-yong; Zhao, Hong-wei; Chen, Min; Xiao, Ti-qiao; Guo, Zhi

2015-01-01

Terahertz radiation is an electromagnetic radiation in the range between millimeter waves and far infrared. Due to its low energy and non-ionizing characters, THz pulse imaging emerges as a novel tool in many fields, such as material, chemical, biological medicine, and food safety. Limited spatial resolution is a significant restricting factor of terahertz imaging technology. Near field imaging method was proposed to improve the spatial resolution of terahertz system. Submillimeter scale's spauial resolution can be achieved if the income source size is smaller than the wawelength of the incoming source and the source is very close to the sample. But many changes were needed to the traditional terahertz time domain spectroscopy system, and it's very complex to analyze sample's physical parameters through the terahertz signal. A method of inserting a pinhole upstream to the sample was first proposed in this article to improve the spatial resolution of traditional terahertz time domain spectroscopy system. The measured spatial resolution of terahertz time domain spectroscopy system by knife edge method can achieve spatial resolution curves. The moving stage distance between 10 % and 90 Yo of the maximum signals respectively was defined as the, spatial resolution of the system. Imaging spatial resolution of traditional terahertz time domain spectroscopy system was improved dramatically after inserted a pinhole with diameter 0. 5 mm, 2 mm upstream to the sample. Experimental results show that the spatial resolution has been improved from 1. 276 mm to 0. 774 mm, with the increment about 39 %. Though this simple method, the spatial resolution of traditional terahertz time domain spectroscopy system was increased from millimeter scale to submillimeter scale. A pinhole with diameter 1 mm on a polyethylene plate was taken as sample, to terahertz imaging study. The traditional terahertz time domain spectroscopy system and pinhole inserted terahertz time domain spectroscopy

Integrated heterodyne terahertz transceiver

DOEpatents

Lee, Mark [Albuquerque, NM; Wanke, Michael C [Albuquerque, NM

2009-06-23

A heterodyne terahertz transceiver comprises a quantum cascade laser that is integrated on-chip with a Schottky diode mixer. An antenna connected to the Schottky diode receives a terahertz signal. The quantum cascade laser couples terahertz local oscillator power to the Schottky diode to mix with the received terahertz signal to provide an intermediate frequency output signal. The fully integrated transceiver optimizes power efficiency, sensitivity, compactness, and reliability. The transceiver can be used in compact, fieldable systems covering a wide variety of deployable applications not possible with existing technology.

Ultrasensitive hot-electron nanobolometers for terahertz astrophysics.

PubMed

Wei, Jian; Olaya, David; Karasik, Boris S; Pereverzev, Sergey V; Sergeev, Andrei V; Gershenson, Michael E

2008-08-01

The submillimetre or terahertz region of the electromagnetic spectrum contains approximately half of the total luminosity of the Universe and 98% of all the photons emitted since the Big Bang. This radiation is strongly absorbed in the Earth's atmosphere, so space-based terahertz telescopes are crucial for exploring the evolution of the Universe. Thermal emission from the primary mirrors in these telescopes can be reduced below the level of the cosmic background by active cooling, which expands the range of faint objects that can be observed. However, it will also be necessary to develop bolometers-devices for measuring the energy of electromagnetic radiation-with sensitivities that are at least two orders of magnitude better than the present state of the art. To achieve this sensitivity without sacrificing operating speed, two conditions are required. First, the bolometer should be exceptionally well thermally isolated from the environment; second, its heat capacity should be sufficiently small. Here we demonstrate that these goals can be achieved by building a superconducting hot-electron nanobolometer. Its design eliminates the energy exchange between hot electrons and the leads by blocking electron outdiffusion and photon emission. The thermal conductance between hot electrons and the thermal bath, controlled by electron-phonon interactions, becomes very small at low temperatures ( approximately 1 x 10-16 W K-1 at 40 mK). These devices, with a heat capacity of approximately 1 x 10-19 J K-1, are sufficiently sensitive to detect single terahertz photons in submillimetre astronomy and other applications based on quantum calorimetry and photon counting.

Terahertz magnonics: Feasibility of using terahertz magnons for information processing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zakeri, Khalil

2018-06-01

An immediate need of information technology is designing fast, small and low-loss devices. One of the ways to design such devices is using the bosonic quasiparticles, such as magnons, for information transfer/processing. This is the main idea behind the field of magnonics. When a magnon propagates through a magnetic medium, no electrical charge transport is involved and therefore no energy losses, creating Joule heating, occur. This is the most important advantage of using magnons for information transfer. Moreover the mutual conversion between magnons and the other carriers e.g. electrons, photons and plasmons shall open new opportunities to realize tunable multifunctional devices. Magnons cover a very wide range of frequency, from sub-gigahertz up to a few hundreds of terahertz. The magnon frequency has an important impact on the performance of magnon-based devices (the larger the excitation frequency, the faster the magnons). This means that the use of high-frequency (terahertz) magnons would provide a great opportunity for the design of ultrafast devices. However, up to now the focus in magnonics has been on the low-frequency gigahertz magnons. Here we discuss the feasibility of using terahertz magnons for application in magnonic devices. We shall bring the concept of terahertz magnonics into discussion. We discuss how the recently discovered phenomena in the field of terahertz magnons may inspire ideas for designing new magnonic devices. We further introduce methods to tune the fundamental properties of terahertz magnons, e.g. their eigenfrequency and lifetime.

High frequency resolution terahertz time-domain spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sangala, Bagvanth Reddy

2013-12-01

A new method for the high frequency resolution terahertz time-domain spectroscopy is developed based on the characteristic matrix method. This method is useful for studying planar samples or stack of planar samples. The terahertz radiation was generated by optical rectification in a ZnTe crystal and detected by another ZnTe crystal via electro-optic sampling method. In this new characteristic matrix based method, the spectra of the sample and reference waveforms will be modeled by using characteristic matrices. We applied this new method to measure the optical constants of air. The terahertz transmission through the layered systems air-Teflon-air-Quartz-air and Nitrogen gas-Teflon-Nitrogen gas-Quartz-Nitrogen gas was modeled by the characteristic matrix method. A transmission coefficient is derived from these models which was optimized to fit the experimental transmission coefficient to extract the optical constants of air. The optimization of an error function involving the experimental complex transmission coefficient and the theoretical transmission coefficient was performed using patternsearch algorithm of MATLAB. Since this method takes account of the echo waveforms due to reflections in the layered samples, this method allows analysis of longer time-domain waveforms giving rise to very high frequency resolution in the frequency-domain. We have presented the high frequency resolution terahertz time-domain spectroscopy of air and compared the results with the literature values. We have also fitted the complex susceptibility of air to the Lorentzian and Gaussian functions to extract the linewidths.

All-dielectric rod antenna array for terahertz communications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Withayachumnankul, Withawat; Yamada, Ryoumei; Fujita, Masayuki; Nagatsuma, Tadao

2018-05-01

The terahertz band holds a potential for point-to-point short-range wireless communications at sub-terabit speed. To realize this potential, supporting antennas must have a wide bandwidth to sustain high data rate and must have high gain and low dissipation to compensate for the free space path loss that scales quadratically with frequency. Here we propose an all-dielectric rod antenna array with high radiation efficiency, high gain, and wide bandwidth. The proposed array is integral to a low-loss photonic crystal waveguide platform, and intrinsic silicon is the only constituent material for both the antenna and the feed to maintain the simplicity, compactness, and efficiency. Effective medium theory plays a key role in the antenna performance and integrability. An experimental validation with continuous-wave terahertz electronic systems confirms the minimum gain of 20 dBi across 315-390 GHz. A demonstration shows that a pair of such identical rod array antennas can handle bit-error-free transmission at the speed up to 10 Gbit/s. Further development of this antenna will build critical components for future terahertz communication systems.

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

Quantum-limited Terahertz detection without liquid cryogens

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2005-01-01

Under this contract, we have successfully designed, fabricated and tested a revolutionary new type of detector for Terahertz (THz) radiation, the tunable antenna-coupled intersubband Terahertz (TACIT) detector. The lowest-noise THz detectors used in the astrophysics community require cooling to temperatures below 4K. This deep cryogenic requirement forces satellites launched for THz- observing missions to include either large volumes of liquid Helium, complex cryocoolers, or both. Cryogenic requirements thus add significantly to the cost, complexity and mass of satellites and limit the duration of their missions. It hence desirable to develop new detector technologies with less stringent cryogenic requirements. Such detectors will not only be important in space-based astrophysics, but also respond to a growing demand for THz technology for earth-based scientific and commercial applications.

Atmospheric absorption of terahertz radiation and water vapor continuum effects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Slocum, David M.; Slingerland, Elizabeth J.; Giles, Robert H.; Goyette, Thomas M.

2013-09-01

The water vapor continuum absorption spectrum was investigated using Fourier Transform Spectroscopy. The transmission of broadband terahertz radiation from 0.300 to 1.500 THz was recorded for multiple path lengths and relative humidity levels. The absorption coefficient as a function of frequency was determined and compared with theoretical predictions and available water vapor absorption data. The prediction code is able to separately model the different parts of atmospheric absorption for a range of experimental conditions. A variety of conditions were accurately modeled using this code including both self and foreign gas broadening for low and high water vapor pressures for many different measurement techniques. The intensity and location of the observed absorption lines were also in good agreement with spectral databases. However, there was a discrepancy between the resonant line spectrum simulation and the observed absorption spectrum in the atmospheric transmission windows caused by the continuum absorption. A small discrepancy remained even after using the best available data from the literature to account for the continuum absorption. From the experimental and resonant line simulation spectra the air-broadening continuum parameter was calculated and compared with values available in the literature.

A Fully-Sealed Carbon-Nanotube Cold-Cathode Terahertz Gyrotron

PubMed Central

Yuan, Xuesong; Zhu, Weiwei; Zhang, Yu; Xu, Ningsheng; Yan, Yang; Wu, Jianqiang; Shen, Yan; Chen, Jun; She, Juncong; Deng, Shaozhi

2016-01-01

Gigahertz to terahertz radiation sources based on cold-cathode vacuum electron technology are pursued, because its unique characteristics of instant switch-on and power saving are important to military and space applications. Gigahertz gyrotron was reported using carbon nanotube (CNT) cold-cathode. It is reported here in first time that a fully-sealed CNT cold-cathode 0.22 THz-gyrotron is realized, typically with output power of 500 mW. To achieve this, we have studied mechanisms responsible for CNTs growth on curved shape metal surface, field emission from the sidewall of a CNT, and crystallized interface junction between CNT and substrate material. We have obtained uniform growth of CNTs on and direct growth from cone-cylinder stainless-steel electrode surface, and field emission from both tips and sidewalls of CNTs. It is essential for the success of a CNT terahertz gyrotron to have such high quality, high emitting performance CNTs. Also, we have developed a magnetic injection electron gun using CNT cold-cathode to exploit the advantages of such a conventional gun design, so that a large area emitting surface is utilized to deliver large current for electron beam. The results indicate that higher output power and higher radiation frequency terahertz gyrotron may be made using CNT cold-cathode electron gun. PMID:27609247

Localization of Narrowband Single Photon Emitters in Nanodiamonds.

PubMed

Bray, Kerem; Sandstrom, Russell; Elbadawi, Christopher; Fischer, Martin; Schreck, Matthias; Shimoni, Olga; Lobo, Charlene; Toth, Milos; Aharonovich, Igor

2016-03-23

Diamond nanocrystals that host room temperature narrowband single photon emitters are highly sought after for applications in nanophotonics and bioimaging. However, current understanding of the origin of these emitters is extremely limited. In this work, we demonstrate that the narrowband emitters are point defects localized at extended morphological defects in individual nanodiamonds. In particular, we show that nanocrystals with defects such as twin boundaries and secondary nucleation sites exhibit narrowband emission that is absent from pristine individual nanocrystals grown under the same conditions. Critically, we prove that the narrowband emission lines vanish when extended defects are removed deterministically using highly localized electron beam induced etching. Our results enhance the current understanding of single photon emitters in diamond and are directly relevant to fabrication of novel quantum optics devices and sensors.

Use of terahertz electromagnetic radiation for correction of blood rheology parameters in patients with unstable angina under conditions of treatment with isoket, an NO donor.

PubMed

Kirichuk, V F; Andronov, E V; Mamontova, N V; Tupicin, V D; Mayborodin, A V

2008-09-01

The effect of terahertz electromagnetic radiation at the emission and absorption frequencies of NO molecular spectrum on blood rheology were studied in vitro in patients with unstable angina treated with isoket (NO donor). Irradiated NO donor isoket produced better normalizing effect on blood viscosity and erythrocyte deformability in patients with unstable angina.

Terahertz Radiation Heterodyne Detector Using Two-Dimensional Electron Gas in a GaN Heterostructure

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Karasik, Boris S.; Gill, John J.; Mehdi, Imran; Crawford, Timothy J.; Sergeev, Andrei V.; Mitin, Vladimir V.

2012-01-01

High-resolution submillimeter/terahertz spectroscopy is important for studying atmospheric and interstellar molecular gaseous species. It typically uses heterodyne receivers where an unknown (weak) signal is mixed with a strong signal from the local oscillator (LO) operating at a slightly different frequency. The non-linear mixer devices for this frequency range are unique and are not off-the-shelf commercial products. Three types of THz mixers are commonly used: Schottky diode, superconducting hot-electron bolometer (HEB), and superconductor-insulation-superconductor (SIS) junction. A HEB mixer based on the two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) formed at the interface of two slightly dissimilar semiconductors was developed. This mixer can operate at temperatures between 100 and 300 K, and thus can be used with just passive radiative cooling available even on small spacecraft.

Controllable Terahertz Radiation from a Linear-Dipole Array Formed by a Two-Color Laser Filament in Air.

PubMed

Zhang, Zhelin; Chen, Yanping; Chen, Min; Zhang, Zhen; Yu, Jin; Sheng, Zhengming; Zhang, Jie

2016-12-09

We demonstrate effective control on the carrier-envelope phase and angular distribution as well as the peak intensity of a nearly single-cycle terahertz pulse emitted from a laser filament formed by two-color, the fundamental and the corresponding second harmonics, femtosecond laser pulses propagating in air. Experimentally, such control has been performed by varying the filament length and the initial phase difference between the two-color laser components. A linear-dipole-array model, including the descriptions of both the generation (via laser field ionization) and propagation of the emitted terahertz pulse, is proposed to present a quantitative interpretation of the observations. Our results contribute to the understanding of terahertz generation in a femtosecond laser filament and suggest a practical way to control the electric field of a terahertz pulse for potential applications.

An enhanced narrow-band imaging method for the microvessel detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, Feng; Song, Enmin; Liu, Hong; Wan, Youming; Zhu, Jun; Hung, Chih-Cheng

2018-02-01

A medical endoscope system combined with the narrow-band imaging (NBI), has been shown to be a superior diagnostic tool for early cancer detection. The NBI can reveal the morphologic changes of microvessels in the superficial cancer. In order to improve the conspicuousness of microvessel texture, we propose an enhanced NBI method to improve the conspicuousness of endoscopic images. To obtain the more conspicuous narrow-band images, we use the edge operator to extract the edge information of the narrow-band blue and green images, and give a weight to the extracted edges. Then, the weighted edges are fused with the narrow-band blue and green images. Finally, the displayed endoscopic images are reconstructed with the enhanced narrow-band images. In addition, we evaluate the performance of enhanced narrow-band images with different edge operators. Experimental results indicate that the Sobel and Canny operators achieve the best performance of all. Compared with traditional NBI method of Olympus company, our proposed method has more conspicuous texture of microvessel.

High-resolution reconstruction for terahertz imaging.

PubMed

Xu, Li-Min; Fan, Wen-Hui; Liu, Jia

2014-11-20

We present a high-resolution (HR) reconstruction model and algorithms for terahertz imaging, taking advantage of super-resolution methodology and algorithms. The algorithms used include projection onto a convex sets approach, iterative backprojection approach, Lucy-Richardson iteration, and 2D wavelet decomposition reconstruction. Using the first two HR reconstruction methods, we successfully obtain HR terahertz images with improved definition and lower noise from four low-resolution (LR) 22×24 terahertz images taken from our homemade THz-TDS system at the same experimental conditions with 1.0 mm pixel. Using the last two HR reconstruction methods, we transform one relatively LR terahertz image to a HR terahertz image with decreased noise. This indicates potential application of HR reconstruction methods in terahertz imaging with pulsed and continuous wave terahertz sources.

A simplified scheme for generating narrow-band mid-ultraviolet laser radiation

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

Almog, G.; Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Geschwister-Scholl-Platz 1, 80539 München; Scholz, M., E-mail: Matthias.Scholz@toptica.com

2015-03-15

We report on the development and characterization of continuous, narrow-band, and tunable laser systems that use direct second-harmonic generation from blue and green diode lasers with an output power level of up to 11.1 mW in the mid-ultraviolet. One of our laser systems was tuned to the mercury 6{sup 1}S{sub 0} → 6{sup 3}P{sub 1} intercombination line at 253.7 nm. We could perform Doppler-free saturation spectroscopy on this line and were able to lock our laser to the transition frequency on long time scales.

Integrated heterodyne terahertz transceiver

DOEpatents

Wanke, Michael C [Albuquerque, NM; Lee, Mark [Albuquerque, NM; Nordquist, Christopher D [Albuquerque, NM; Cich, Michael J [Albuquerque, NM

2012-09-25

A heterodyne terahertz transceiver comprises a quantum cascade laser that is integrated on-chip with a Schottky diode mixer. A terahertz signal can be received by an antenna connected to the mixer, an end facet or sidewall of the laser, or through a separate active section that can amplify the incident signal. The quantum cascade laser couples terahertz local oscillator power to the Schottky diode to mix with the received terahertz signal to provide an intermediate frequency output signal. The fully integrated transceiver optimizes power efficiency, sensitivity, compactness, and reliability. The transceiver can be used in compact, fieldable systems covering a wide variety of deployable applications not possible with existing technology.

Electromagnetic behavior of spatial terahertz wave modulators based on reconfigurable micromirror gratings in Littrow configuration.

PubMed

Kappa, Jan; Schmitt, Klemens M; Rahm, Marco

2017-08-21

Efficient, high speed spatial modulators with predictable performance are a key element in any coded aperture terahertz imaging system. For spectroscopy, the modulators must also provide a broad modulation frequency range. In this study, we numerically analyze the electromagnetic behavior of a dynamically reconfigurable spatial terahertz wave modulator based on a micromirror grating in Littrow configuration. We show that such a modulator can modulate terahertz radiation over a wide frequency range from 1.7 THz to beyond 3 THz at a modulation depth of more than 0.6. As a specific example, we numerically simulated coded aperture imaging of an object with binary transmissive properties and successfully reconstructed the image.

Terahertz beam propagation measured through three-dimensional amplitude profile determination

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Reiten, Matthew T.; Harmon, Stacee A.; Cheville, Richard Alan

2003-10-01

To determine the spatio-temporal field distribution of freely propagating terahertz bandwidth pulses, we measure the time-resolved electric field in two spatial dimensions with high resolution. The measured, phase-coherent electric-field distributions are compared with an analytic model in which the radiation from a dipole antenna near a dielectric interface is coupled to free space through a spherical lens. The field external to the lens is limited by reflection at the lens-air dielectric interface, which is minimized at Brewster's angle, leading to an annular field pattern. Field measurements compare favorably with theory. Propagation of terahertz beams is determined both by assuming a TEM0,0 Gaussian profile as well as expanding the beam into a superposition of Laguerre-Gauss modes. The Laguerre-Gauss model more accurately describes the beam profile for free-space propagation and after propagating through a simple optical system. The accuracy of both models for predicting far-field beam patterns depend upon accurately measuring complex field amplitudes of terahertz beams.

Near-Field Terahertz Transmission Imaging at 0.210 Terahertz Using a Simple Aperture Technique

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-10-01

This report discusses a simple aperture useful for terahertz near-field imaging at .2010 terahertz ( lambda = 1.43 millimeters). The aperture requires...achieve a spatial resolution of lambda /7. The aperture can be scaled with the assistance of machinery found in conventional machine shops to achieve similar results using shorter terahertz wavelengths.

Examination of Painting on Metal Support by Terahertz Time-Domain Imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koch Dandolo, C. L.; Gomez-Sepulveda, A. M.; Hernandez-Serrano, A. I.; Castro-Camus, E.

2017-10-01

Two paintings on metal support have been imaged by terahertz time-domain imaging (THz-TDI) in a reflection setup and the X-ray radiographs were also recorded. The study was performed for testing the terahertz radiation (THz) as an imaging method alternative to X-ray radiography, which suffers several limitations in imaging paint layers on metal support. While the information regarding the paint layers of the paintings was almost lost in the records provided by the X-ray radiography, THz-TDI demonstrates the ability to provide important information about them, despite the presence of the underlying metal.

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

Continuous-wave optical parametric oscillators on their way to the terahertz range

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sowade, Rosita; Breunig, Ingo; Kiessling, Jens; Buse, Karsten

2010-02-01

Continuous-wave optical parametric oscillators (OPOs) are known to be working horses for spectroscopy in the near- and mid-infrared. However, strong absorption in nonlinear media like lithium niobate complicates the generation of far-infrared light. This absorption leads to pump thresholds vastly exceeding the power of standard pump lasers. Our first approach was, therefore, to combine the established technique of photomixing with optical parametric oscillators. Here, two OPOs provide one wave each, with a tunable difference frequency. These waves are combined to a beat signal as a source for photomixers. Terahertz radiation between 0.065 and 1.018 THz is generated with powers in the order of nanowatts. To overcome the upper frequency limit of the opto-electronic photomixers, terahertz generation has to rely entirely on optical methods. Our all-optical approach, getting around the high thresholds for terahertz generation, is based on cascaded nonlinear processes: the resonantly enhanced signal field, generated in the primary parametric process, is intense enough to act as the pump for a secondary process, creating idler waves with frequencies in the terahertz regime. The latter ones are monochromatic and tunable with detected powers of more than 2 μW at 1.35 THz. Thus, continuous-wave optical parametric oscillators have entered the field of terahertz photonics.

Terahertz vibrational signature of bacterial spores arising from nanostructure decorated endospore surface.

PubMed

Datta, Debopam; Stroscio, Michael A; Dutta, Mitra; Zhang, Weidong; Brown, Elliott R

2018-05-03

This theoretical effort is the first to explore the possible hypothesis that terahertz optical activity of Bacillus spores arises from normal vibrational modes of spore coat subcomponents in the terahertz frequency range. Bacterial strains like Bacillus and Clostridium form spores with a hardened coating made of peptidoglycan to protect its genetic material in harsh conditions. In recent years, electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy has revealed that bacterial spore surfaces are decorated with nanocylinders and honeycomb nanostructures. In this article, a simple elastic continuum model is used to describe the vibration of these nanocylinders mainly in Bacillus subtilis, which also leads to the conclusion that the terahertz signature of these spores arises from the vibration of these nanostructures. Three vibrating modes: radial/longitudinal, torsional and flexural, have been identified and discussed for the nanocylinders. The effect of bound water, which shifts the vibration frequency, is also discussed. The peptidoglycan molecule consists of polar and charged amino acids; hence, the sporal surface local vibrations interact strongly with the terahertz radiation. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Terahertz control of nanotip photoemission

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wimmer, L.; Herink, G.; Solli, D. R.; Yalunin, S. V.; Echternkamp, K. E.; Ropers, C.

2014-06-01

The active control of matter by strong electromagnetic fields is of growing importance, with applications all across the optical spectrum from the extreme-ultraviolet to the far-infrared. In recent years, phase-stable terahertz fields have shown tremendous potential for observing and manipulating elementary excitations in solids. In the gas phase, on the other hand, driving free charges with terahertz transients provides insight into ultrafast ionization dynamics. Developing such approaches for locally enhanced terahertz fields in nanostructures will create new means to govern electron currents on the nanoscale. Here, we use single-cycle terahertz transients to demonstrate extensive control over nanotip photoelectron emission. The terahertz near-field is shown to either enhance or suppress photocurrents, with the tip acting as an ultrafast rectifying diode. We record phase-resolved sub-cycle dynamics and find spectral compression and expansion arising from electron propagation within the terahertz near-field. These interactions produce rich spectro-temporal features and offer unprecedented control over ultrashort free electron pulses for imaging and diffraction.

Planar Holographic Metasurfaces for Terahertz Focusing

PubMed Central

Kuznetsov, Sergei A.; Astafev, Mikhail A.; Beruete, Miguel; Navarro-Cía, Miguel

2015-01-01

Scientists and laymen alike have always been fascinated by the ability of lenses and mirrors to control light. Now, with the advent of metamaterials and their two-dimensional counterpart metasurfaces, such components can be miniaturized and designed with additional functionalities, holding promise for system integration. To demonstrate this potential, here ultrathin reflection metasurfaces (also called metamirrors) designed for focusing terahertz radiation into a single spot and four spaced spots are proposed and experimentally investigated at the frequency of 0.35 THz. Each metasurface is designed using a computer-generated spatial distribution of the reflection phase. The phase variation within 360 deg is achieved via a topological morphing of the metasurface pattern from metallic patches to U-shaped and split-ring resonator elements, whose spectral response is derived from full-wave electromagnetic simulations. The proposed approach demonstrates a high-performance solution for creating low-cost and lightweight beam-shaping and beam-focusing devices for the terahertz band. PMID:25583565

Terahertz imaging system based on a backward-wave oscillator.

PubMed

Dobroiu, Adrian; Yamashita, Masatsugu; Ohshima, Yuichi N; Morita, Yasuyuki; Otani, Chiko; Kawase, Kodo

2004-10-20

We present an imaging system designed for use in the terahertz range. As the radiation source a backward-wave oscillator was chosen for its special features such as high output power, good wave-front quality, good stability, and wavelength tunability from 520 to 710 GHz. Detection is achieved with a pyroelectric sensor operated at room temperature. The alignment procedure for the optical elements is described, and several methods to reduce the etalon effect that are inherent in monochromatic sources are discussed. The terahertz spot size in the sample plane is 550 microm (nearly the diffraction limit), and the signal-to-noise ratio is 10,000:1; other characteristics were also measured and are presented in detail. A number of preliminary applications are also shown that cover various areas: nondestructive real-time testing for plastic tubes and packaging seals; biological terahertz imaging of fresh, frozen, or freeze-dried samples; paraffin-embedded specimens of cancer tissue; and measurement of the absorption coefficient of water by use of a wedge-shaped cell.

Sparsity based terahertz reflective off-axis digital holography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wan, Min; Muniraj, Inbarasan; Malallah, Ra'ed; Zhao, Liang; Ryle, James P.; Rong, Lu; Healy, John J.; Wang, Dayong; Sheridan, John T.

2017-05-01

Terahertz radiation lies between the microwave and infrared regions in the electromagnetic spectrum. Emitted frequencies range from 0.1 to 10 THz with corresponding wavelengths ranging from 30 μm to 3 mm. In this paper, a continuous-wave Terahertz off-axis digital holographic system is described. A Gaussian fitting method and image normalisation techniques were employed on the recorded hologram to improve the image resolution. A synthesised contrast enhanced hologram is then digitally constructed. Numerical reconstruction is achieved using the angular spectrum method of the filtered off-axis hologram. A sparsity based compression technique is introduced before numerical data reconstruction in order to reduce the dataset required for hologram reconstruction. Results prove that a tiny amount of sparse dataset is sufficient in order to reconstruct the hologram with good image quality.

Terahertz Lasers Reveal Information for 3D Images

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2013-01-01

After taking off her shoes and jacket, she places them in a bin. She then takes her laptop out of its case and places it in a separate bin. As the items move through the x-ray machine, the woman waits for a sign from security personnel to pass through the metal detector. Today, she was lucky; she did not encounter any delays. The man behind her, however, was asked to step inside a large circular tube, raise his hands above his head, and have his whole body scanned. If you have ever witnessed a full-body scan at the airport, you may have witnessed terahertz imaging. Terahertz wavelengths are located between microwave and infrared on the electromagnetic spectrum. When exposed to these wavelengths, certain materials such as clothing, thin metal, sheet rock, and insulation become transparent. At airports, terahertz radiation can illuminate guns, knives, or explosives hidden underneath a passenger s clothing. At NASA s Kennedy Space Center, terahertz wavelengths have assisted in the inspection of materials like insulating foam on the external tanks of the now-retired space shuttle. "The foam we used on the external tank was a little denser than Styrofoam, but not much," says Robert Youngquist, a physicist at Kennedy. The problem, he explains, was that "we lost a space shuttle by having a chunk of foam fall off from the external fuel tank and hit the orbiter." To uncover any potential defects in the foam covering, such as voids or air pockets, that could keep the material from staying in place, NASA employed terahertz imaging to see through the foam. For many years, the technique ensured the integrity of the material on the external tanks.

Modeling of ultrasonic and terahertz radiations in defective tiles for condition monitoring of thermal protection systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kabiri Rahani, Ehsan

Condition based monitoring of Thermal Protection Systems (TPS) is necessary for safe operations of space shuttles when quick turn-around time is desired. In the current research Terahertz radiation (T-ray) has been used to detect mechanical and heat induced damages in TPS tiles. Voids and cracks inside the foam tile are denoted as mechanical damage while property changes due to long and short term exposures of tiles to high heat are denoted as heat induced damage. Ultrasonic waves cannot detect cracks and voids inside the tile because the tile material (silica foam) has high attenuation for ultrasonic energy. Instead, electromagnetic terahertz radiation can easily penetrate into the foam material and detect the internal voids although this electromagnetic radiation finds it difficult to detect delaminations between the foam tile and the substrate plate. Thus these two technologies are complementary to each other for TPS inspection. Ultrasonic and T-ray field modeling in free and mounted tiles with different types of mechanical and thermal damages has been the focus of this research. Shortcomings and limitations of FEM method in modeling 3D problems especially at high-frequencies has been discussed and a newly developed semi-analytical technique called Distributed Point Source Method (DPSM) has been used for this purpose. A FORTRAN code called DPSM3D has been developed to model both ultrasonic and electromagnetic problems using the conventional DPSM method. This code is designed in a general form capable of modeling a variety of geometries. DPSM has been extended from ultrasonic applications to electromagnetic to model THz Gaussian beams, multilayered dielectrics and Gaussian beam-scatterer interaction problems. Since the conventional DPSM has some drawbacks, to overcome it two modification methods called G-DPSM and ESM have been proposed. The conventional DPSM in the past was only capable of solving time harmonic (frequency domain) problems. Time history was

Narrow-band generation in random distributed feedback fiber laser.

PubMed

Sugavanam, Srikanth; Tarasov, Nikita; Shu, Xuewen; Churkin, Dmitry V

2013-07-15

Narrow-band emission of spectral width down to ~0.05 nm line-width is achieved in the random distributed feedback fiber laser employing narrow-band fiber Bragg grating or fiber Fabry-Perot interferometer filters. The observed line-width is ~10 times less than line-width of other demonstrated up to date random distributed feedback fiber lasers. The random DFB laser with Fabry-Perot interferometer filter provides simultaneously multi-wavelength and narrow-band (within each line) generation with possibility of further wavelength tuning.

A hybrid continuous-wave terahertz imaging system

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

Dolganova, Irina N., E-mail: in.dolganova@gmail.com; Zaytsev, Kirill I., E-mail: kirzay@gmail.ru; Metelkina, Anna A.

2015-11-15

A hybrid (active-passive mode) terahertz (THz) imaging system and an algorithm for imaging synthesis are proposed to enhance the THz image quality. The concept of image contrast is used to compare active and passive THz imaging. Combining the measurement of the self-emitted radiation of the object with the back-scattered source radiation measurement, it becomes possible to use the THz image to retrieve maximum information about the object. The experimental results confirm the advantages of hybrid THz imaging systems, which can be generalized for a wide range of applications in the material sciences, chemical physics, bio-systems, etc.

Negative-mass mitigation of Coulomb repulsion for terahertz undulator radiation of electron bunches

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

Balal, N.; Magory, E.; Bandurkin, I. V.

2015-10-19

It is proposed to utilize the effect of negative mass for stabilization of the effective axial size of very dense and short electron bunches produced by photo-injector guns by using combined undulator and strong uniform magnetic fields. It has been shown that in the “abnormal” regime, an increase in the electron energy leads to a decrease in the axial velocity of the electron; due to the negative-mass effect, the Coulomb repulsion of electrons leads to their attraction and formation of a fairly stable and compact bunch “nucleus.” An undulator with a strong uniform magnetic field providing the negative-mass effect ismore » designed for an experimental source of terahertz radiation. The use of the negative-mass regime in this experiment should result in a long-pulse coherent spontaneous undulator emission from a short dense moderately relativistic (5.5 MeV) photo-injector electron bunch with a high (up to 20%) efficiency and a narrow frequency spectrum.« less

Thermal control design of the Lightning Mapper Sensor narrow-band spectral filter

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Flannery, Martin R.; Potter, John; Raab, Jeff R.; Manlief, Scott K.

1992-01-01

The performance of the Lightning Mapper Sensor is dependent on the temperature shifts of its narrowband spectral filter. To perform over a 10 degree FOV with an 0.8 nm bandwidth, the filter must be 15 cm in diameter and mounted externally to the telescope optics. The filter thermal control required a filter design optimized for minimum bandpass shift with temperature, a thermal analysis of substrate materials for maximum temperature uniformity, and a thermal radiation analysis to determine the parameter sensitivity of the radiation shield for the filter, the filter thermal recovery time after occultation, and heater power to maintain filter performance in the earth-staring geosynchronous environment.

A wireless narrowband imaging chip for capsule endoscope.

PubMed

Lan-Rong Dung; Yin-Yi Wu

2010-12-01

This paper presents a dual-mode capsule gastrointestinal endoscope device. An endoscope combined with a narrowband image (NBI), has been shown to be a superior diagnostic tool for early stage tissue neoplasms detection. Nevertheless, a wireless capsule endoscope with the narrowband imaging technology has not been presented in the market up to now. The narrowband image acquisition and power dissipation reduction are the main challenges of NBI capsule endoscope. In this paper, we present the first narrowband imaging capsule endoscope that can assist clinical doctors to effectively diagnose early gastrointestinal cancers, profited from our dedicated dual-mode complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) sensor. The dedicated dual-mode CMOS sensor can offer white-light and narrowband images. Implementation results show that the proposed 512 × 512 CMOS sensor consumes only 2 mA at a 3-V power supply. The average current of the NBI capsule with an 8-Mb/s RF transmitter is nearly 7 ~ 8 mA that can continuously work for 6 ~ 8 h with two 1.5-V 80-mAh button batteries while the frame rate is 2 fps. Experimental results on backside mucosa of a human tongue and pig's small intestine showed that the wireless NBI capsule endoscope can significantly improve the image quality, compared with a commercial-of-the-shelf capsule endoscope for gastrointestinal tract diagnosis.

Fingerprint extraction from interference destruction terahertz spectrum.

PubMed

Xiong, Wei; Shen, Jingling

2010-10-11

In this paper, periodic peaks in a terahertz absorption spectrum are confirmed to be induced from interference effects. Theoretically, we explained the periodic peaks and calculated the locations of them. Accordingly, a technique was suggested, with which the interference peaks in a terahertz spectrum can be eliminated and therefore a real terahertz absorption spectrum can be obtained. Experimentally, a sample, Methamphetamine, was investigated and its terahertz fingerprint was successfully extracted from its interference destruction spectrum. This technique is useful in getting samples' terahertz fingerprint spectra, and furthermore provides a fast nondestructive testing method using a large size terahertz beam to identify materials.

Terahertz-Frequency Spin Hall Auto-oscillator Based on a Canted Antiferromagnet

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sulymenko, O. R.; Prokopenko, O. V.; Tiberkevich, V. S.; Slavin, A. N.; Ivanov, B. A.; Khymyn, R. S.

2017-12-01

We propose a design of a terahertz-frequency signal generator based on a layered structure consisting of a current-driven platinum (Pt) layer and a layer of an antiferromagnet (AFM) with easy-plane anisotropy, where the magnetization vectors of the AFM sublattices are canted inside the easy plane by the Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction (DMI). The dc electric current flowing in the Pt layer creates due to the spin Hall effect, a perpendicular spin current that, being injected in the AFM layer, tilts the DMI-canted AFM sublattices out of the easy plane, thus exposing them to the action of a strong internal exchange magnetic field of the AFM. The sublattice magnetizations, along with the small net magnetization vector mDMI of the canted AFM, start to rotate about the hard anisotropy axis of the AFM with the terahertz frequency proportional to the injected spin current and the AFM exchange field. The rotation of the small net magnetization mDMI results in the terahertz-frequency dipolar radiation that can be directly received by an adjacent (e.g., dielectric) resonator. We demonstrate theoretically that the radiation frequencies in the range f =0.05 - 2 THz are possible at the experimentally reachable magnitudes of the driving current density, and we evaluate the power of the signal radiated into different types of resonators. This power increases with the increase of frequency f , and it can exceed 1 μ W at f ˜0.5 THz for a typical dielectric resonator of the electric permittivity ɛ ˜10 and a quality factor Q ˜750 .

[Application of terahertz technology in medical testing and diagnosis].

PubMed

Qi, Na; Zhang, Zhuo-Yong; Xiang, Yu-Hong

2013-08-01

Terahertz science and technology is increasingly emphasized in science and industry, and has progressed significantly in recent years. There is an important aspect of attention in the application of terahertz technology to medicine. The overview of the terahertz characters, terahertz spectroscopy and terahertz imaging technology is introduced. This paper focuses on reviewing the use of and research progress in terahertz spectroscopy and terahertz imaging technology in medical testing and diagnosis. Furthermore, the problems to be solved and development directions of terahertz spectroscopy and terahertz imaging technology are discussed.

The application of terahertz pulsed imaging in characterising density distribution of roll-compacted ribbons.

PubMed

Zhang, Jianyi; Pei, Chunlei; Schiano, Serena; Heaps, David; Wu, Chuan-Yu

2016-09-01

Roll compaction is a commonly used dry granulation process in pharmaceutical, fine chemical and agrochemical industries for materials sensitive to heat or moisture. The ribbon density distribution plays an important role in controlling properties of granules (e.g. granule size distribution, porosity and strength). Accurate characterisation of ribbon density distribution is critical in process control and quality assurance. The terahertz imaging system has a great application potential in achieving this as the terahertz radiation has the ability to penetrate most of the pharmaceutical excipients and the refractive index reflects variations in density and chemical compositions. The aim of this study is to explore whether terahertz pulse imaging is a feasible technique for quantifying ribbon density distribution. Ribbons were made of two grades of microcrystalline cellulose (MCC), Avicel PH102 and DG, using a roll compactor at various process conditions and the ribbon density variation was investigated using terahertz imaging and section methods. The density variations obtained from both methods were compared to explore the reliability and accuracy of the terahertz imaging system. An average refractive index is calculated from the refractive index values in the frequency range between 0.5 and 1.5THz. It is shown that the refractive index gradually decreases from the middle of the ribbon towards to the edges. Variations of density distribution across the width of the ribbons are also obtained using both the section method and the terahertz imaging system. It is found that the terahertz imaging results are in excellent agreement with that obtained using the section method, demonstrating that terahertz imaging is a feasible and rapid tool to characterise ribbon density distributions. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Toward practical terahertz time-domain spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brigada, David J.

Terahertz time-domain spectroscopy is a promising technology for the identification of explosive and pharmaceutical substances in adverse conditions. It interacts strongly with intermolecular vibrational and rotational modes. Terahertz also passes through many common dielectric covering materials, allowing for the identification of substances in envelopes, wrapped in opaque plastic, or otherwise hidden. However, there are several challenges preventing the adoption of terahertz spectroscopy outside the laboratory. This dissertation examines the problems preventing widespread adoption of terahertz technology and attempts to resolve them. In order to use terahertz spectroscopy to identify substances, a spectrum measured of the target sample must be compared to the spectra of various known standard samples. This dissertation examines various methods that can be employed throughout the entire process of acquiring and transforming terahertz waveforms to improve the accuracy of these comparisons. The concepts developed in this dissertation directly apply to terahertz spectroscopy, but also carry implications for other spectroscopy methods, from Raman to mass spectrometry. For example, these techniques could help to lower the rate of false positives at airport security checkpoints. This dissertation also examines the implementation of several of these methods as a way to realize a fully self-contained, handheld, battery-operated terahertz spectrometer. This device also employs techniques to allow minimally-trained operators use terahertz to detect different substances of interest. It functions as a proof-of-concept of the true benefits of the improvements that have been developed in this dissertation.

Tunable High-Intensity Electron Bunch Train Production Based on Nonlinear Longitudinal Space Charge Oscillation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Zhen; Yan, Lixin; Du, Yingchao; Zhou, Zheng; Su, Xiaolu; Zheng, Lianmin; Wang, Dong; Tian, Qili; Wang, Wei; Shi, Jiaru; Chen, Huaibi; Huang, Wenhui; Gai, Wei; Tang, Chuanxiang

2016-05-01

High-intensity trains of electron bunches with tunable picosecond spacing are produced and measured experimentally with the goal of generating terahertz (THz) radiation. By imposing an initial density modulation on a relativistic electron beam and controlling the charge density over the beam propagation, density spikes of several-hundred-ampere peak current in the temporal profile, which are several times higher than the initial amplitudes, have been observed for the first time. We also demonstrate that the periodic spacing of the bunch train can be varied continuously either by tuning launching phase of a radio-frequency gun or by tuning the compression of a downstream magnetic chicane. Narrow-band coherent THz radiation from the bunch train was also measured with μ J -level energies and tunable central frequency of the spectrum in the range of ˜0.5 to 1.6 THz. Our results pave the way towards generating mJ-level narrow-band coherent THz radiation and driving high-gradient wakefield-based acceleration.

Tunable High-Intensity Electron Bunch Train Production Based on Nonlinear Longitudinal Space Charge Oscillation

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

Zhang, Zhen; Yan, Lixin; Du, Yingchao

2016-05-05

High-intensity trains of electron bunches with tunable picosecond spacing are produced and measured experimentally with the goal of generating terahertz (THz) radiation. By imposing an initial density modulation on a relativistic electron beam and controlling the charge density over the beam propagation, density spikes of several-hundred-ampere peak current in the temporal profile, which are several times higher than the initial amplitudes, have been observed for the first time. We also demonstrate that the periodic spacing of the bunch train can be varied continuously either by tuning launching phase of a radiofrequency gun or by tuning the compression of a downstreammore » magnetic chicane. Narrow-band coherent THz radiation from the bunch train was also measured with μJ-level energies and tunable central frequency of the spectrum in the range of ~0.5 to 1.6 THz. Our results pave the way towards generating mJ-level narrow-band coherent THz radiation and driving high-gradient wakefield-based acceleration.« less

Observation of Terahertz Radiation via the Two-Color Laser Scheme with Uncommon Frequency Ratios

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Liang-Liang; Wang, Wei-Min; Wu, Tong; Zhang, Rui; Zhang, Shi-Jing; Zhang, Cun-Lin; Zhang, Yan; Sheng, Zheng-Ming; Zhang, Xi-Cheng

2017-12-01

In the widely studied two-color laser scheme for terahertz (THz) radiation from a gas, the frequency ratio of the two lasers is usually fixed at ω2/ω1=1 :2 . We investigate THz generation with uncommon frequency ratios. Our experiments show, for the first time, efficient THz generation with new ratios of ω2/ω1=1 :4 and 2 ∶3 . We observe that the THz polarization can be adjusted by rotating the longer-wavelength laser polarization and the polarization adjustment becomes inefficient by rotating the other laser polarization; the THz energy shows similar scaling laws with different frequency ratios. These observations are inconsistent with multiwave mixing theory, but support the gas-ionization or plasma-current model. This study pushes the development of the two-color scheme and provides a new dimension to explore the long-standing problem of the THz generation mechanism.

Observation of Terahertz Radiation via the Two-Color Laser Scheme with Uncommon Frequency Ratios.

PubMed

Zhang, Liang-Liang; Wang, Wei-Min; Wu, Tong; Zhang, Rui; Zhang, Shi-Jing; Zhang, Cun-Lin; Zhang, Yan; Sheng, Zheng-Ming; Zhang, Xi-Cheng

2017-12-08

In the widely studied two-color laser scheme for terahertz (THz) radiation from a gas, the frequency ratio of the two lasers is usually fixed at ω_{2}/ω_{1}=1:2. We investigate THz generation with uncommon frequency ratios. Our experiments show, for the first time, efficient THz generation with new ratios of ω_{2}/ω_{1}=1:4 and 2∶3. We observe that the THz polarization can be adjusted by rotating the longer-wavelength laser polarization and the polarization adjustment becomes inefficient by rotating the other laser polarization; the THz energy shows similar scaling laws with different frequency ratios. These observations are inconsistent with multiwave mixing theory, but support the gas-ionization or plasma-current model. This study pushes the development of the two-color scheme and provides a new dimension to explore the long-standing problem of the THz generation mechanism.

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

Ultra-thin narrow-band, complementary narrow-band, and dual-band metamaterial absorbers for applications in the THz regime

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Astorino, Maria Denise; Frezza, Fabrizio; Tedeschi, Nicola

2017-02-01

In this paper, ultra-thin narrow-band, complementary narrow-band, and dual-band metamaterial absorbers (MMAs), exploiting the same electric ring resonator configuration, are investigated at normal and oblique incidence for both transverse electric (TE) and transverse magnetic (TM) polarizations, and with different physical properties in the THz regime. In the analysis of the ultra-thin narrow-band MMA, the limit of applicability of the transmission line model has been overcome with the introduction of a capacitance which considers the z component of the electric field. These absorbing structures have shown a wide angular response and a polarization-insensitive behavior due to the introduction of a conducting ground plane and to the four-fold rotational symmetry of the resonant elements around the propagation axis. We have adopted a retrieval procedure to extract the effective electromagnetic parameters of the proposed MMAs and we have compared the simulated and analytical results through the interference theory.

Experimental observation of sub-terahertz backward-wave amplification in a multi-level microfabricated slow-wave circuit

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baik, Chan-Wook; Ahn, Ho Young; Kim, Yongsung; Lee, Jooho; Hong, Seogwoo; Lee, Sang Hun; Choi, Jun Hee; Kim, Sunil; Jeon, So-Yeon; Yu, SeGi; Collins, George; Read, Michael E.; Lawrence Ives, R.; Kim, Jong Min; Hwang, Sungwoo

2015-11-01

In our earlier paper dealing with dispersion retrieval from ultra-deep, reactive-ion-etched, slow-wave circuits on silicon substrates, it was proposed that splitting high-aspect-ratio circuits into multilevels enabled precise characterization in sub-terahertz frequency regime. This achievement prompted us to investigate beam-wave interaction through a vacuum-sealed integration with a 15-kV, 85-mA, thermionic, electron gun. Our experimental study demonstrates sub-terahertz, backward-wave amplification driven by an external oscillator. The measured output shows a frequency downshift, as well as power amplification, from beam loading even with low beam perveance. This offers a promising opportunity for the development of terahertz radiation sources, based on silicon technologies.

Experimental observation of sub-terahertz backward-wave amplification in a multi-level microfabricated slow-wave circuit

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

Baik, Chan-Wook, E-mail: cw.baik@samsung.com; Ahn, Ho Young; Kim, Yongsung

2015-11-09

In our earlier paper dealing with dispersion retrieval from ultra-deep, reactive-ion-etched, slow-wave circuits on silicon substrates, it was proposed that splitting high-aspect-ratio circuits into multilevels enabled precise characterization in sub-terahertz frequency regime. This achievement prompted us to investigate beam-wave interaction through a vacuum-sealed integration with a 15-kV, 85-mA, thermionic, electron gun. Our experimental study demonstrates sub-terahertz, backward-wave amplification driven by an external oscillator. The measured output shows a frequency downshift, as well as power amplification, from beam loading even with low beam perveance. This offers a promising opportunity for the development of terahertz radiation sources, based on silicon technologies.

Metallic scattering lifetime measurements with terahertz time-domain spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lea, Graham Bryce

The momentum scattering lifetime is a fundamental parameter of metallic conduction that can be measured with terahertz time-domain spectroscopy. This technique has an important strength over optical reflectance spectroscopy: it is capable of measuring both the phase and the amplitude of the probing radiation. This allows simultaneous, independent measurements of the scattering lifetime and resistivity. Broadly, it is the precision of the phase measurement that determines the precision of scattering lifetime measurements. This thesis describes milliradian-level phase measurement refinements in the experimental technique and measures the conductivity anisotropy in the correlated electron system CaRuO3. These phase measurement refinements translate to femtosecond-level refinements in scattering lifetime measurements of thin metallic films. Keywords: terahertz time-domain spectroscopy, calcium ruthenate, ruthenium oxides, correlated electrons, experimental technique.

Terahertz molecular resonance of cancer DNA.

PubMed

Cheon, Hwayeong; Yang, Hee-Jin; Lee, Sang-Hun; Kim, Young A; Son, Joo-Hiuk

2016-11-15

Carcinogenesis involves the chemical and structural alteration of biomolecules in cells. Aberrant methylation of DNA is a well-known carcinogenic mechanism and a common chemical modification of DNA. Terahertz waves can directly observe changes in DNA because the characteristic energies lie in the same frequency region. In addition, terahertz energy levels are not high enough to damage DNA by ionization. Here, we present terahertz molecular resonance fingerprints of DNA methylation in cancer DNA. Methylated cytidine, a nucleoside, has terahertz characteristic energies that give rise to the molecular resonance of methylation in DNA. Molecular resonance is monitored in aqueous solutions of genomic DNA from cancer cell lines using a terahertz time-domain spectroscopic technique. Resonance signals can be quantified to identify the types of cancer cells with a certain degree of DNA methylation. These measurements reveal the existence of molecular resonance fingerprints of cancer DNAs in the terahertz region, which can be utilized for the early diagnosis of cancer cells at the molecular level.

Terahertz molecular resonance of cancer DNA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cheon, Hwayeong; Yang, Hee-Jin; Lee, Sang-Hun; Kim, Young A.; Son, Joo-Hiuk

2016-11-01

Carcinogenesis involves the chemical and structural alteration of biomolecules in cells. Aberrant methylation of DNA is a well-known carcinogenic mechanism and a common chemical modification of DNA. Terahertz waves can directly observe changes in DNA because the characteristic energies lie in the same frequency region. In addition, terahertz energy levels are not high enough to damage DNA by ionization. Here, we present terahertz molecular resonance fingerprints of DNA methylation in cancer DNA. Methylated cytidine, a nucleoside, has terahertz characteristic energies that give rise to the molecular resonance of methylation in DNA. Molecular resonance is monitored in aqueous solutions of genomic DNA from cancer cell lines using a terahertz time-domain spectroscopic technique. Resonance signals can be quantified to identify the types of cancer cells with a certain degree of DNA methylation. These measurements reveal the existence of molecular resonance fingerprints of cancer DNAs in the terahertz region, which can be utilized for the early diagnosis of cancer cells at the molecular level.

Terahertz technology for imaging and spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Crowe, T. W.; Porterfield, D. W.; Hesler, J. L.; Bishop, W. L.; Kurtz, D. S.; Hui, K.

2006-05-01

The terahertz region of the electromagnetic spectrum has unique properties that make it especially useful for imaging and spectroscopic detection of concealed weapons, explosives and chemical and biological materials. However, terahertz energy is difficult to generate and detect, and this has led to a technology gap in this frequency band. Nonlinear diodes can be used to bridge this gap by translating the functionality achieved at microwave frequencies to the terahertz band. Basic building blocks include low-noise mixers, frequency multipliers, sideband generators and direct detectors. These terahertz components rely on planar Schottky diodes and recently developed integrated diode circuits make them easier to assemble and more robust. The new generation of terahertz sources and receivers requires no mechanical tuning, yet achieves high efficiency and broad bandwidth. This paper reviews the basic design of terahertz transmitters and receivers, with special emphasis on the recent development of systems that are compact, easy to use and have excellent performance.

Terahertz cascades from nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arnardottir, K. B.; Liew, T. C. H.

2018-05-01

In this article we propose a system capable of terahertz (THz) radiation with quantum yield above unity. The system consists of nanoparticles where the material composition varies along the radial direction of each nanoparticle in such a way that a ladder of equidistant energy levels emerges. By then exciting the highest level of this ladder we produce multiple photons of the same frequency in the THz range. We demonstrate how we can calculate a continuous material composition profile that achieves a high quantum yield and then show that a more experimentally friendly design of a multishell nanoparticle can still result in a high quantum yield.

Terahertz Focusing and Polarization Control in Large-Area Bias-Free Semiconductor Emitters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carthy, Joanna L.; Gow, Paul C.; Berry, Sam A.; Mills, Ben; Apostolopoulos, Vasilis

2018-03-01

We show that, when large-area multiplex terahertz semiconductor emitters, that work on diffusion currents and Schottky potentials, are illuminated by ultrashort optical pulses they can radiate a directional electromagnetic terahertz pulse which is controlled by the angular spectrum of the incident optical beam. Using the lens that focuses the incident near-infrared pulse, we have demonstrated THz emission focusing in free space, at the same point where the optical radiation would focus. We investigated the beam waist and Gouy phase shift of the THz emission as a function of frequency. We also show that the polarization profile of the emitted THz can be tailored by the metallic patterning on the semiconductor, demonstrating radial polarization when a circular emitter design is used. Our techniques can be used for fast THz beam steering and mode control for efficiently coupling to waveguides without the need for THz lenses or parabolic mirrors.

Systematic study of terahertz time-domain spectra of historically informed black inks.

PubMed

Bardon, Tiphaine; May, Robert K; Taday, Philip F; Strlič, Matija

2013-09-07

The potential of terahertz-time domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) as a diagnostic tool for studies of inks in historical documents is investigated in this paper. Transmission mode THz-TDS was performed on historically informed model writing and drawing inks. Carbon black, bistre and sepia inks show featureless spectra between 5 and 75 cm(-1) (0.15-2.25 THz); however, their analysis still provided useful information on the interaction of terahertz radiation with amorphous materials. On the other hand, THz-TDS can be used to distinguish different iron gall inks with respect to the amount of iron(II) sulfate contained, as sharp spectral features are observed for inks containing different ratios of iron(II) sulfate to tannic or gallic acid. Additionally, copper sulfate was found to modify the structure of iron(II) precipitate. Furthermore, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) applied to THz-TDS spectra, highlights changes in iron gall inks during thermal degradation, during which a decrease in the sharp spectral bands associated with iron(II) sulfate is observed. ATR-FTIR spectroscopy combined with THz-TDS of dynamically heated ink samples indicate that this phenomenon is due to dehydration of iron(II) sulfate heptahydrate. While this research demonstrates the potential of THz-TDS to improve monitoring of the chemical state of historical documents, the outcomes go beyond the heritage field, as it also helps to develop the theoretical knowledge on interactions between terahertz radiation and matter, particularly in studies of long-range symmetry (polymorphism) in complex molecular structures and the role played by the surrounding matrix, and also indicates the potential of THz-TDS for the optimization of contrast in terahertz imaging.

Widely tunable quantum cascade laser-based terahertz source.

PubMed

Danylov, Andriy A; Light, Alexander R; Waldman, Jerry; Erickson, Neal; Qian, Xifeng

2014-07-10

A compact, tunable, ultranarrowband terahertz source, Δν∼1  MHz, is demonstrated by upconversion of a 2.324 THz, free-running quantum cascade laser with a THz Schottky-diode-balanced mixer using a swept, synthesized microwave source to drive the nonlinearity. Continuously tunable radiation of 1 μW power is demonstrated in two frequency regions: ν(Laser) ± 0 to 50 GHz and ν(Laser) ± 70 to 115 GHz. The sideband spectra were characterized with a Fourier-transform spectrometer, and the radiation was tuned through CO, HDO, and D2O rotational transitions.

Ultra-high dynamic range electro-optic sampling for detecting millimeter and sub-millimeter radiation

PubMed Central

Ibrahim, Akram; Férachou, Denis; Sharma, Gargi; Singh, Kanwarpal; Kirouac-Turmel, Marie; Ozaki, Tsuneyuki

2016-01-01

Time-domain spectroscopy using coherent millimeter and sub-millimeter radiation (also known as terahertz radiation) is rapidly expanding its application, owing greatly to the remarkable advances in generating and detecting such radiation. However, many current techniques for coherent terahertz detection have limited dynamic range, thus making it difficult to perform some basic experiments that need to directly compare strong and weak terahertz signals. Here, we propose and demonstrate a novel technique based on cross-polarized spectral-domain interferometry to achieve ultra-high dynamic range electro-optic sampling measurement of coherent millimeter and sub-millimeter radiation. In our scheme, we exploit the birefringence in a single-mode polarization maintaining fiber in order to measure the phase change induced by the electric field of terahertz radiation in the detection crystal. With our new technique, we have achieved a dynamic range of 7 × 106, which is 4 orders of magnitude higher than conventional electro-optic sampling techniques, while maintaining comparable signal-to-noise ratio. The present technique is foreseen to have great impact on experiments such as linear terahertz spectroscopy of optically thick materials (such as aqueous samples) and nonlinear terahertz spectroscopy, where the higher dynamic range is crucial for proper interpretation of experimentally obtained results. PMID:26976363

Ultra-high dynamic range electro-optic sampling for detecting millimeter and sub-millimeter radiation.

PubMed

Ibrahim, Akram; Férachou, Denis; Sharma, Gargi; Singh, Kanwarpal; Kirouac-Turmel, Marie; Ozaki, Tsuneyuki

2016-03-15

Time-domain spectroscopy using coherent millimeter and sub-millimeter radiation (also known as terahertz radiation) is rapidly expanding its application, owing greatly to the remarkable advances in generating and detecting such radiation. However, many current techniques for coherent terahertz detection have limited dynamic range, thus making it difficult to perform some basic experiments that need to directly compare strong and weak terahertz signals. Here, we propose and demonstrate a novel technique based on cross-polarized spectral-domain interferometry to achieve ultra-high dynamic range electro-optic sampling measurement of coherent millimeter and sub-millimeter radiation. In our scheme, we exploit the birefringence in a single-mode polarization maintaining fiber in order to measure the phase change induced by the electric field of terahertz radiation in the detection crystal. With our new technique, we have achieved a dynamic range of 7 × 10(6), which is 4 orders of magnitude higher than conventional electro-optic sampling techniques, while maintaining comparable signal-to-noise ratio. The present technique is foreseen to have great impact on experiments such as linear terahertz spectroscopy of optically thick materials (such as aqueous samples) and nonlinear terahertz spectroscopy, where the higher dynamic range is crucial for proper interpretation of experimentally obtained results.

Statistics of multiply scattered broadband terahertz pulses.

PubMed

Pearce, Jeremy; Jian, Zhongping; Mittleman, Daniel M

2003-07-25

We describe the first measurements of the diffusion of broadband single-cycle optical pulses through a highly scattering medium. Using terahertz time-domain spectroscopy, we measure the electric field of a multiply scattered wave with a time resolution shorter than one optical cycle. This time-domain measurement provides information on the statistics of both the amplitude and phase distributions of the diffusive wave. We develop a theoretical description, suitable for broadband radiation, which adequately describes the experimental results.

A view of metals through the terahertz window

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dodge, Steve

2006-05-01

As electrons move through a metal, interaction with their environment tends to slow them down, causing the Drude peak in the optical conductivity to become narrower. The resulting peak width is typically in the terahertz frequency range that sits between microwaves the far infrared, too fast for conventional electronics and too slow for conventional infrared spectroscopy. With femtosecond laser techniques, however, coherent, broadband terahertz radiation can now be generated and detected with exquisite sensitivity, providing a new window onto electronic interactions in metals. I will discuss the application of this technique to a variety of metallic systems, including elemental lead, the nearly magnetic oxide metal CaRuO3, and CrV alloys that span the quantum phase transition from spin-density wave to paramagnetic metal. M. A. Gilmore, S. Kamal, D. M. Broun, and J. S. Dodge, Appl. Phys. Lett. 88, 141910 (2006).

Collective dynamics of lysozyme in water: terahertz absorption spectroscopy and comparison with theory.

PubMed

Xu, Jing; Plaxco, Kevin W; Allen, S James

2006-11-30

To directly measure the low-frequency vibrational modes of proteins in biologically relevant water environment rather than previously explored dry or slightly hydrated phase, we have developed a broadband terahertz spectrometer suitable for strongly attenuating protein solutions. Radiation is provided by harmonic multipliers (up to 0.21 THz), a Gunn oscillator (at 0.139 THz), and the UCSB free-electron lasers (up to 4.8 THz). Our spectrometer combines these intense sources with a sensitive cryogenic detector and a variable path length sample cell to detect radiation after it is attenuated by more than 7 orders of magnitudes by the aqueous sample. Using this spectrometer, we have measured the molar extinction of solvated lysozyme between 0.075 and 3.72 THz (2.5-124 cm(-1)), and we made direct comparison to several published theoretical models based on molecular dynamics simulations and normal-mode analysis. We confirm the existence of dense, overlapping normal modes in the terahertz frequency range. Our observed spectrum, while in rough qualitative agreement with these models, differs in detail. Further, we observe a low-frequency cutoff in terahertz dynamics between 0.2 and 0.3 THz, and we see no evidence of a predicted normal mode at approximately 0.09 THz for the protein.

Application of Terahertz Field Enhancement Effect in Metal Microstructures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nakajima, M.; Kurihara, T.; Tadokoro, Y.; Kang, B.; Takano, K.; Yamaguchi, K.; Watanabe, H.; Oto, K.; Suemoto, T.; Hangyo, M.

2016-12-01

Applications of high-field terahertz pulses are attractive in physics and terahertz technology. In this study, two applications related to high-intensity terahertz pulses are demonstrated. The field enhancement effect by subwavelength metallic microstructures is utilized for terahertz excitation measurement. The spin precession dynamics in magnetic materials was induced by a terahertz magnetic field. Spin precession was amplified by one order of magnitude in amplitude by the enhanced magnetic terahertz field in orthoferrite ErFeO3 with metal microstructures. The induced spin dynamics was analyzed and explained by LLG-LCR model. Moreover, a detection method for terahertz pulses was developed using a cholesteric liquid crystal at room temperature without any electronic devices. The beam profile of terahertz pulses was visualized and compared to other methods such as the knife edge method using pyroelectric detector and micro-bolometer array. The liquid crystal terahertz imager is very simple and has good applicability as a portable terahertz-sensing card.

Terahertz wide aperture reflection tomography.

PubMed

Pearce, Jeremy; Choi, Hyeokho; Mittleman, Daniel M; White, Jeff; Zimdars, David

2005-07-01

We describe a powerful imaging modality for terahertz (THz) radiation, THz wide aperture reflection tomography (WART). Edge maps of an object's cross section are reconstructed from a series of time-domain reflection measurements at different viewing angles. Each measurement corresponds to a parallel line projection of the object's cross section. The filtered backprojection algorithm is applied to recover the image from the projection data. To our knowledge, this is the first demonstration of a reflection computed tomography technique using electromagnetic waves. We demonstrate the capabilities of THz WART by imaging the cross sections of two test objects.

Terahertz imaging with compressive sensing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chan, Wai Lam

Most existing terahertz imaging systems are generally limited by slow image acquisition due to mechanical raster scanning. Other systems using focal plane detector arrays can acquire images in real time, but are either too costly or limited by low sensitivity in the terahertz frequency range. To design faster and more cost-effective terahertz imaging systems, the first part of this thesis proposes two new terahertz imaging schemes based on compressive sensing (CS). Both schemes can acquire amplitude and phase-contrast images efficiently with a single-pixel detector, thanks to the powerful CS algorithms which enable the reconstruction of N-by- N pixel images with much fewer than N2 measurements. The first CS Fourier imaging approach successfully reconstructs a 64x64 image of an object with pixel size 1.4 mm using a randomly chosen subset of the 4096 pixels which defines the image in the Fourier plane. Only about 12% of the pixels are required for reassembling the image of a selected object, equivalent to a 2/3 reduction in acquisition time. The second approach is single-pixel CS imaging, which uses a series of random masks for acquisition. Besides speeding up acquisition with a reduced number of measurements, the single-pixel system can further cut down acquisition time by electrical or optical spatial modulation of random patterns. In order to switch between random patterns at high speed in the single-pixel imaging system, the second part of this thesis implements a multi-pixel electrical spatial modulator for terahertz beams using active terahertz metamaterials. The first generation of this device consists of a 4x4 pixel array, where each pixel is an array of sub-wavelength-sized split-ring resonator elements fabricated on a semiconductor substrate, and is independently controlled by applying an external voltage. The spatial modulator has a uniform modulation depth of around 40 percent across all pixels, and negligible crosstalk, at the resonant frequency. The

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].

Imaging of ex vivo nonmelanoma skin cancers in the optical and terahertz spectral regions optical and terahertz skin cancers imaging.

PubMed

Joseph, Cecil S; Patel, Rakesh; Neel, Victor A; Giles, Robert H; Yaroslavsky, Anna N

2014-05-01

We tested the hypothesis that polarization sensitive optical and terahertz imaging may be combined for accurate nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC) delineation. Nine NMSC specimens were imaged. 513 μm and 440 nm wavelengths were used for terahertz and optical imaging, respectively. Histopathology was processed for evaluation. Terahertz reflectance of NMSC was quantified. Our results demonstrate that cross-polarized terahertz images correctly identified location of the tumours, whereas cross-polarized and polarization difference optical images accurately presented morphological features. Cross-polarized terahertz images exhibited lower reflectivity values in cancer as compared to normal tissue. Combination of optical and terahertz imaging shows promise for intraoperative delineation of NMSC. Copyright © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Role of vanguard counter-potential in terahertz emission due to surface currents explicated by three-dimensional ensemble Monte Carlo simulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cortie, D. L.; Lewis, R. A.

2011-10-01

The discovery that short pulses of near-infrared radiation striking a semiconductor may lead to emission of radiation at terahertz frequencies paved the way for terahertz time-domain spectroscopy. Previous modeling has allowed the physical mechanisms to be understood in general terms but it has not fully explored the role of key physical parameters of the emitter material nor has it fully revealed the competing nature of the surface-field and photo-Dember effects. In this context, our purpose has been to more fully explicate the mechanisms of terahertz emission from transient currents at semiconductor surfaces and to determine the criteria for efficient emission. To achieve this purpose we employ an ensemble Monte Carlo simulation in three dimensions. To ground the calculations, we focus on a specific emitter, InAs. We separately vary distinct physical parameters to determine their specific contribution. We find that scattering as a whole has relatively little impact on the terahertz emission. The emission is found to be remarkably resistant to alterations of the dark surface potential. Decreasing the band gap leads to a strong increase in terahertz emission, as does decreasing the electron mass. Increasing the absorption dramatically influences the peak-peak intensity and peak shape. We conclude that increasing absorption is the most direct path to improve surface-current semiconductor terahertz emitters. We find for longer pump pulses that the emission is limited by a newly identified vanguard counter-potential mechanism: Electrons at the leading edge of longer laser pulses repel subsequent electrons. This discovery is the main result of our work.

[Terahertz Spectroscopic Identification with Deep Belief Network].

PubMed

Ma, Shuai; Shen, Tao; Wang, Rui-qi; Lai, Hua; Yu, Zheng-tao

2015-12-01

Feature extraction and classification are the key issues of terahertz spectroscopy identification. Because many materials have no apparent absorption peaks in the terahertz band, it is difficult to extract theirs terahertz spectroscopy feature and identify. To this end, a novel of identify terahertz spectroscopy approach with Deep Belief Network (DBN) was studied in this paper, which combines the advantages of DBN and K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN) classifier. Firstly, cubic spline interpolation and S-G filter were used to normalize the eight kinds of substances (ATP, Acetylcholine Bromide, Bifenthrin, Buprofezin, Carbazole, Bleomycin, Buckminster and Cylotriphosphazene) terahertz transmission spectra in the range of 0.9-6 THz. Secondly, the DBN model was built by two restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM) and then trained layer by layer using unsupervised approach. Instead of using handmade features, the DBN was employed to learn suitable features automatically with raw input data. Finally, a KNN classifier was applied to identify the terahertz spectrum. Experimental results show that using the feature learned by DBN can identify the terahertz spectrum of different substances with the recognition rate of over 90%, which demonstrates that the proposed method can automatically extract the effective features of terahertz spectrum. Furthermore, this KNN classifier was compared with others (BP neural network, SOM neural network and RBF neural network). Comparisons showed that the recognition rate of KNN classifier is better than the other three classifiers. Using the approach that automatic extract terahertz spectrum features by DBN can greatly reduce the workload of feature extraction. This proposed method shows a promising future in the application of identifying the mass terahertz spectroscopy.

Tutorial: Terahertz beamforming, from concepts to realizations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Headland, Daniel; Monnai, Yasuaki; Abbott, Derek; Fumeaux, Christophe; Withayachumnankul, Withawat

2018-05-01

The terahertz range possesses significant untapped potential for applications including high-volume wireless communications, noninvasive medical imaging, sensing, and safe security screening. However, due to the unique characteristics and constraints of terahertz waves, the vast majority of these applications are entirely dependent upon the availability of beam control techniques. Thus, the development of advanced terahertz-range beam control techniques yields a range of useful and unparalleled applications. This article provides an overview and tutorial on terahertz beam control. The underlying principles of wavefront engineering include array antenna theory and diffraction optics, which are drawn from the neighboring microwave and optical regimes, respectively. As both principles are applicable across the electromagnetic spectrum, they are reconciled in this overview. This provides a useful foundation for investigations into beam control in the terahertz range, which lies between microwaves and infrared light. Thereafter, noteworthy experimental demonstrations of beam control in the terahertz range are discussed, and these include geometric optics, phased array devices, leaky-wave antennas, reflectarrays, and transmitarrays. These techniques are compared and contrasted for their suitability in applications of terahertz waves.

Switching terahertz wave with grating-coupled Kretschmann configuration.

PubMed

Jiu-Sheng, Li

2017-08-07

We present a terahertz wave switch utilizing Kretschmann configuration which consists of high-refractive-index prism-liquid crystal-periodically grooved metal grating. The switching mechanism of the terahertz switch is based on spoof surface plasmon polariton (SSPP) excitation in the attenuated total reflection regime by changing the liquid crystal refractive index. The results highlighted the fact that the feasibility to "tune" the attenuated total reflection terahertz wave intensity by using the external applied bias voltage. The extinction ratio of the terahertz switch reaches 31.48dB. The terahertz switch has good control ability and flexibility, and can be used in potential terahertz free space device systems.

Terahertz reflection imaging using Kirchhoff migration.

PubMed

Dorney, T D; Johnson, J L; Van Rudd, J; Baraniuk, R G; Symes, W W; Mittleman, D M

2001-10-01

We describe a new imaging method that uses single-cycle pulses of terahertz (THz) radiation. This technique emulates data-collection and image-processing procedures developed for geophysical prospecting and is made possible by the availability of fiber-coupled THz receiver antennas. We use a simple migration procedure to solve the inverse problem; this permits us to reconstruct the location and shape of targets. These results demonstrate the feasibility of the THz system as a test-bed for the exploration of new seismic processing methods involving complex model systems.

Nonlinear terahertz coherent excitation of vibrational modes of liquids.

PubMed

Allodi, Marco A; Finneran, Ian A; Blake, Geoffrey A

2015-12-21

We report the first coherent excitation of intramolecular vibrational modes via the nonlinear interaction of a TeraHertz (THz) light field with molecular liquids. A terahertz-terahertz-Raman pulse sequence prepares the coherences with a broadband, high-energy, (sub)picosecond terahertz pulse, that are then measured in a terahertz Kerr effect spectrometer via phase-sensitive, heterodyne detection with an optical pulse. The spectrometer reported here has broader terahertz frequency coverage, and an increased sensitivity relative to previously reported terahertz Kerr effect experiments. Vibrational coherences are observed in liquid diiodomethane at 3.66 THz (122 cm(-1)), and in carbon tetrachloride at 6.50 THz (217 cm(-1)), in exact agreement with literature values of those intramolecular modes. This work opens the door to 2D spectroscopies, nonlinear in terahertz field, that can study the dynamics of condensed-phase molecular systems, as well as coherent control at terahertz frequencies.

Galaxy properties from J-PAS narrow-band photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mejía-Narváez, A.; Bruzual, G.; Magris, C. G.; Alcaniz, J. S.; Benítez, N.; Carneiro, S.; Cenarro, A. J.; Cristóbal-Hornillos, D.; Dupke, R.; Ederoclite, A.; Marín-Franch, A.; de Oliveira, C. Mendes; Moles, M.; Sodre, L.; Taylor, K.; Varela, J.; Ramió, H. Vázquez

2017-11-01

We study the consistency of the physical properties of galaxies retrieved from spectral energy distribution (SED) fitting as a function of spectral resolution and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). Using a selection of physically motivated star formation histories, we set up a control sample of mock galaxy spectra representing observations of the local Universe in high-resolution spectroscopy, and in 56 narrow-band and 5 broad-band photometry. We fit the SEDs at these spectral resolutions and compute their corresponding stellar mass, the mass- and luminosity-weighted age and metallicity, and the dust extinction. We study the biases, correlations and degeneracies affecting the retrieved parameters and explore the role of the spectral resolution and the SNR in regulating these degeneracies. We find that narrow-band photometry and spectroscopy yield similar trends in the physical properties derived, the former being considerably more precise. Using a galaxy sample from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS), we compare more realistically the results obtained from high-resolution and narrow-band SEDs (synthesized from the same SDSS spectra) following the same spectral fitting procedures. We use results from the literature as a benchmark to our spectroscopic estimates and show that the prior probability distribution functions, commonly adopted in parametric methods, may introduce biases not accounted for in a Bayesian framework. We conclude that narrow-band photometry yields the same trend in the age-metallicity relation in the literature, provided it is affected by the same biases as spectroscopy, albeit the precision achieved with the latter is generally twice as large as with the narrow-band, at SNR values typical of the different kinds of data.

Terahertz science and technology of carbon nanomaterials.

PubMed

Hartmann, R R; Kono, J; Portnoi, M E

2014-08-15

The diverse applications of terahertz (THz) radiation and its importance to fundamental science makes finding ways to generate, manipulate and detect THz radiation one of the key areas of modern applied physics. One approach is to utilize carbon nanomaterials, in particular, single-wall carbon nanotubes and graphene. Their novel optical and electronic properties offer much promise to the field of THz science and technology. This article describes the past, current, and future of THz science and technology of carbon nanotubes and graphene. We will review fundamental studies such as THz dynamic conductivity, THz nonlinearities and ultrafast carrier dynamics as well as THz applications such as THz sources, detectors, modulators, antennas and polarizers.

Far-field characteristics of the square grooved-dielectric lens antenna for the terahertz band.

PubMed

Pan, Wu; Zeng, Wei

2016-09-10

In order to improve the gain and directionality of a terahertz antenna, a square grooved-dielectric lens antenna based on a Fresnel zone plate is proposed. First, a diagonal horn, which is adopted as the primary feed antenna, is designed. Then, the far-field characteristics of the lens antenna are studied by using Fresnel-Kirchhoff diffraction theory and the paraxial approximation. The effects of the full-wave period, the focus diameter ratio, the subregion, and the dielectric substrate thickness on radiation characteristics are studied. The experimental results show that the proposed lens antenna has axisymmetric radiation patterns. The gain is over 26.1 dB, and the 3 dB main lobe beam width is lower than 5.6° across the operation band. The proposed lens antenna is qualified for applications in terahertz wireless communication systems.

Video-rate terahertz electric-field vector imaging

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

Takai, Mayuko; Takeda, Masatoshi; Sasaki, Manabu

We present an experimental setup to dramatically reduce a measurement time for obtaining spatial distributions of terahertz electric-field (E-field) vectors. The method utilizes the electro-optic sampling, and we use a charge-coupled device to detect a spatial distribution of the probe beam polarization rotation by the E-field-induced Pockels effect in a 〈110〉-oriented ZnTe crystal. A quick rotation of the ZnTe crystal allows analyzing the terahertz E-field direction at each image position, and the terahertz E-field vector mapping at a fixed position of an optical delay line is achieved within 21 ms. Video-rate mapping of terahertz E-field vectors is likely to bemore » useful for achieving real-time sensing of terahertz vector beams, vector vortices, and surface topography. The method is also useful for a fast polarization analysis of terahertz beams.« less

Switchable Scattering Meta-Surfaces for Broadband Terahertz Modulation

PubMed Central

Unlu, M.; Hashemi, M. R.; Berry, C. W.; Li, S.; Yang, S.-H.; Jarrahi, M.

2014-01-01

Active tuning and switching of electromagnetic properties of materials is of great importance for controlling their interaction with electromagnetic waves. In spite of their great promise, previously demonstrated reconfigurable metamaterials are limited in their operation bandwidth due to their resonant nature. Here, we demonstrate a new class of meta-surfaces that exhibit electrically-induced switching in their scattering parameters at room temperature and over a broad range of frequencies. Structural configuration of the subwavelength meta-molecules determines their electromagnetic response to an incident electromagnetic radiation. By reconfiguration of the meta-molecule structure, the strength of the induced electric field and magnetic field in the opposite direction to the incident fields are varied and the scattering parameters of the meta-surface are altered, consequently. We demonstrate a custom-designed meta-surface with switchable scattering parameters at a broad range of terahertz frequencies, enabling terahertz intensity modulation with record high modulation depths and modulation bandwidths through a fully integrated, voltage-controlled device platform at room temperature. PMID:25028123

Highly accurate thickness measurement of multi-layered automotive paints using terahertz technology

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

Krimi, Soufiene; Beigang, René; Klier, Jens

2016-07-11

In this contribution, we present a highly accurate approach for thickness measurements of multi-layered automotive paints using terahertz time domain spectroscopy in reflection geometry. The proposed method combines the benefits of a model-based material parameters extraction method to calibrate the paint coatings, a generalized Rouard's method to simulate the terahertz radiation behavior within arbitrary thin films, and the robustness of a powerful evolutionary optimization algorithm to increase the sensitivity of the minimum thickness measurement limit. Within the framework of this work, a self-calibration model is introduced, which takes into consideration the real industrial challenges such as the effect of wet-on-wetmore » spray in the painting process.« less

Terahertz plasmonic Bessel beamformer

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

Monnai, Yasuaki; Shinoda, Hiroyuki; Jahn, David

We experimentally demonstrate terahertz Bessel beamforming based on the concept of plasmonics. The proposed planar structure is made of concentric metallic grooves with a subwavelength spacing that couple to a point source to create tightly confined surface waves or spoof surface plasmon polaritons. Concentric scatterers periodically incorporated at a wavelength scale allow for launching the surface waves into free space to define a Bessel beam. The Bessel beam defined at 0.29 THz has been characterized through terahertz time-domain spectroscopy. This approach is capable of generating Bessel beams with planar structures as opposed to bulky axicon lenses and can be readily integratedmore » with solid-state terahertz sources.« less

Real-time, continuous-wave terahertz imaging using a microbolometer focal-plane array

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hu, Qing (Inventor); Min Lee, Alan W. (Inventor)

2010-01-01

The present invention generally provides a terahertz (THz) imaging system that includes a source for generating radiation (e.g., a quantum cascade laser) having one or more frequencies in a range of about 0.1 THz to about 10 THz, and a two-dimensional detector array comprising a plurality of radiation detecting elements that are capable of detecting radiation in that frequency range. An optical system directs radiation from the source to an object to be imaged. The detector array detects at least a portion of the radiation transmitted through the object (or reflected by the object) so as to form a THz image of that object.

Terahertz Array Receivers with Integrated Antennas

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chattopadhyay, Goutam; Llombart, Nuria; Lee, Choonsup; Jung, Cecile; Lin, Robert; Cooper, Ken B.; Reck, Theodore; Siles, Jose; Schlecht, Erich; Peralta, Alessandro;

Terahertz wave electro-optic measurements with optical spectral filtering

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

Ilyakov, I. E., E-mail: igor-ilyakov@mail.ru; Shishkin, B. V.; Kitaeva, G. Kh.

We propose electro-optic detection techniques based on variations of the laser pulse spectrum induced during pulse co-propagation with terahertz wave radiation in a nonlinear crystal. Quantitative comparison with two other detection methods is made. Substantial improvement of the sensitivity compared to the standard electro-optic detection technique (at high frequencies) and to the previously shown technique based on laser pulse energy changes is demonstrated in experiment.

The preparation method of terahertz monolithic integrated device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Cong; Su, Bo; He, Jingsuo; Zhang, Hongfei; Wu, Yaxiong; Zhang, Shengbo; Zhang, Cunlin

2018-01-01

The terahertz monolithic integrated device is to integrate the pumping area of the terahertz generation, the detection area of the terahertz receiving and the metal waveguide of terahertz transmission on the same substrate. The terahertz generation and detection device use a photoconductive antenna structure the metal waveguide use a microstrip line structure. The evanescent terahertz-bandwidth electric field extending above the terahertz transmission line interacts with, and is modified by, overlaid dielectric samples, thus enabling the characteristic vibrational absorption resonances in the sample to be probed. In this device structure, since the semiconductor substrate of the photoconductive antenna is located between the strip conductor and the dielectric layer of the microstrip line, and the semiconductor substrate cannot grow on the dielectric layer directly. So how to prepare the semiconductor substrate of the photoconductive antenna and how to bond the semiconductor substrate to the dielectric layer of the microstrip line is a key step in the terahertz monolithic integrated device. In order to solve this critical problem, the epitaxial wafer structure of the two semiconductor substrates is given and transferred to the desired substrate by two methods, respectively.

Graphene field-effect transistors as room-temperature terahertz detectors.

PubMed

Vicarelli, L; Vitiello, M S; Coquillat, D; Lombardo, A; Ferrari, A C; Knap, W; Polini, M; Pellegrini, V; Tredicucci, A

2012-10-01

The unique optoelectronic properties of graphene make it an ideal platform for a variety of photonic applications, including fast photodetectors, transparent electrodes in displays and photovoltaic modules, optical modulators, plasmonic devices, microcavities, and ultra-fast lasers. Owing to its high carrier mobility, gapless spectrum and frequency-independent absorption, graphene is a very promising material for the development of detectors and modulators operating in the terahertz region of the electromagnetic spectrum (wavelengths in the hundreds of micrometres), still severely lacking in terms of solid-state devices. Here we demonstrate terahertz detectors based on antenna-coupled graphene field-effect transistors. These exploit the nonlinear response to the oscillating radiation field at the gate electrode, with contributions of thermoelectric and photoconductive origin. We demonstrate room temperature operation at 0.3 THz, showing that our devices can already be used in realistic settings, enabling large-area, fast imaging of macroscopic samples.

Development of terahertz endoscopic system for cancer detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Doradla, Pallavi; Alavi, Karim; Joseph, Cecil S.; Giles, Robert H.

2016-02-01

Terahertz (THz) imaging is emerging as a robust platform for a myriad of applications in the fields of security, health, astronomy and material science. The terahertz regime with wavelengths spanning from microns to millimeters is a potentially safe and noninvasive medical imaging modality for detecting cancers. Endoscopic imaging systems provide high flexibility in examining the interior surfaces of an organ or tissue. Researchers have been working on the development of THz endoscopes with photoconductive antennas, which necessarily operate under high voltage, and require at least two channels to measure the reflected signal from the specimen. This manuscript provides the design and imperative steps involved in the development of a single-channel terahertz endoscopic system. The continuous-wave terahertz imaging system utilizes a single flexible terahertz waveguide channel to transmit and collect the back reflected intrinsic terahertz signal from the sample and is capable of operation in both transmission and reflection modalities. To determine the feasibility of using a terahertz endoscope for cancer detection, the co- and cross-polarized terahertz remittance from human colonic tissue specimens were collected at 584 GHz frequency. The two dimensional terahertz images obtained using polarization specific detection exhibited intrinsic contrast between cancerous and normal regions of fresh colorectal tissue. The level of contrast observed using endoscopic imaging correlates well with the contrast levels observed in the free space ex vivo terahertz reflectance studies of human colonic tissue. The prototype device developed in this study represents a significant step towards clinical endoscopic application of THz technology for in vivo colon cancer screening.

Performance analysis of higher mode spoof surface plasmon polariton for terahertz sensing

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

Yao, Haizi; Tu, Wanli; Zhong, Shuncong, E-mail: zhongshuncong@hotmail.com

2015-04-07

We investigated the spoof surface plasmon polaritons (SSPPs) on 1D grooved metal surface for terahertz sensing of refractive index of the filling analyte through a prism-coupling attenuated total reflection setup. From the dispersion relation analysis and the finite element method-based simulation, we revealed that the dispersion curve of SSPP got suppressed as the filling refractive index increased, which cause the coupling resonance frequency redshifting in the reflection spectrum. The simulated results for testing various refractive indexes demonstrated that the incident angle of terahertz radiation has a great effect on the performance of sensing. Smaller incident angle will result in amore » higher sensitive sensing with a narrower detection range. In the meanwhile, the higher order mode SSPP-based sensing has a higher sensitivity with a narrower detection range. The maximum sensitivity is 2.57 THz/RIU for the second-order mode sensing at 45° internal incident angle. The proposed SSPP-based method has great potential for high sensitive terahertz sensing.« less

Frequency locking and monitoring based on Bi-directional terahertz radiation of a 3 rd-order distributed feedback quantum cascade laser

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

van Marrewijk, N.; Mirzaei, B.; Hayton, D.

2015-10-07

In this study, we have performed frequency locking of a dual, forward reverse emitting third-order distributed feedback quantum cascade laser (QCL) at 3.5 THz. By using both directions of THz emission in combination with two gas cells and two power detectors, we can for the first time perform frequency stabilization, while monitor the frequency locking quality independently. We also characterize how the use of a less sensitive pyroelectric detector can influence the quality of frequency locking, illustrating experimentally that the sensitivity of the detectors is crucial. Using both directions of terahertz (THz) radiation has a particular advantage for the applicationmore » of a QCL as a local oscillator, where radiation from one side can be used for frequency/phase stabilization, leaving the other side to be fully utilized as a local oscillator to pump a mixer.« less

Strain Imaging Using Terahertz Waves and Metamaterials

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-11-01

TECHNICAL REPORT RDMR-WD-16-48 STRAIN IMAGING USING TERAHERTZ WAVES AND METAMATERIALS Henry O. Everitt and Martin S...TITLE AND SUBTITLE Strain Imaging Using Terahertz Waves and Metamaterials 5. FUNDING NUMBERS 6. AUTHOR(S) Henry O. Everitt, Martin S...predictions. 14. SUBJECT TERMS Birefringence, Terahertz Waves , Metamaterials 15. NUMBER OF PAGES 16 16. PRICE CODE 17. SECURITY

Electro-optic measurement of terahertz pulse energy distribution.

PubMed

Sun, J H; Gallacher, J G; Brussaard, G J H; Lemos, N; Issac, R; Huang, Z X; Dias, J M; Jaroszynski, D A

2009-11-01

An accurate and direct measurement of the energy distribution of a low repetition rate terahertz electromagnetic pulse is challenging because of the lack of sensitive detectors in this spectral range. In this paper, we show how the total energy and energy density distribution of a terahertz electromagnetic pulse can be determined by directly measuring the absolute electric field amplitude and beam energy density distribution using electro-optic detection. This method has potential use as a routine method of measuring the energy density of terahertz pulses that could be applied to evaluating future high power terahertz sources, terahertz imaging, and spatially and temporarily resolved pump-probe experiments.

The spectral analysis of fuel oils using terahertz radiation and chemometric methods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhan, Honglei; Zhao, Kun; Zhao, Hui; Li, Qian; Zhu, Shouming; Xiao, Lizhi

2016-10-01

The combustion characteristics of fuel oils are closely related to both engine efficiency and pollutant emissions, and the analysis of oils and their additives is thus important. These oils and additives have been found to generate distinct responses to terahertz (THz) radiation as the result of various molecular vibrational modes. In the present work, THz spectroscopy was employed to identify a number of oils, including lubricants, gasoline and diesel, with different additives. The identities of dozens of these oils could be readily established using statistical models based on principal component analysis. The THz spectra of gasoline, diesel, sulfur and methyl methacrylate (MMA) were acquired and linear fittings were obtained. By using chemometric methods, including back propagation, artificial neural network and support vector machine techniques, typical concentrations of sulfur in gasoline (ppm-grade) could be detected, together with MMA in diesel below 0.5%. The absorption characteristics of the oil additives were also assessed using 2D correlation spectroscopy, and several hidden absorption peaks were discovered. The technique discussed herein should provide a useful new means of analyzing fuel oils with various additives and impurities in a non-destructive manner and therefore will be of benefit to the field of chemical detection and identification.

Terahertz multistatic reflection imaging.

PubMed

Dorney, Timothy D; Symes, William W; Baraniuk, Richard G; Mittleman, Daniel M

2002-07-01

We describe a new imaging method using single-cycle pulses of terahertz (THz) radiation. This technique emulates the data collection and image processing procedures developed for geophysical prospecting and is made possible by the availability of fiber-coupled THz receiver antennas. We use a migration procedure to solve the inverse problem; this permits us to reconstruct the location, the shape, and the refractive index of targets. We show examples for both metallic and dielectric model targets, and we perform velocity analysis on dielectric targets to estimate the refractive indices of imaged components. These results broaden the capabilities of THz imaging systems and also demonstrate the viability of the THz system as a test bed for the exploration of new seismic processing methods.

Rattling of Oxygen Ions in a Sub-Nanometer-Sized Cage Converts Terahertz Radiation to Visible Light.

PubMed

Toda, Yoshitake; Ishiyama, Shintaro; Khutoryan, Eduard; Idehara, Toshitaka; Matsuishi, Satoru; Sushko, Peter V; Hosono, Hideo

2017-12-26

A simple and robust approach to visualization of continuous wave terahertz (CW-THz) light would open up opportunities to couple physical phenomena that occur at fundamentally different energy scales. Here we demonstrate how nanoscale cages of Ca 12 Al 14 O 33 crystal enable conversion of CW-THz radiation to visible light. These crystallographic cages are partially occupied with weakly bonded oxygen ions and give rise to a narrow conduction band that can be populated with localized, yet mobile electrons. CW-THz light excites a nearly stand-alone rattling motion of the encaged oxygen species, which promotes electron transfer from them to the neighboring vacant cages. When the power of CW-THz light reaches tens of watts, the coupling between forced rattling in the confined space, electronic excitation and ionization of oxygen species, and corresponding recombination processes result in emission of bright visible light.

Evanescent-Wave Filtering in Images Using Remote Terahertz Structured Illumination

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Flammini, M.; Pontecorvo, E.; Giliberti, V.; Rizza, C.; Ciattoni, A.; Ortolani, M.; DelRe, E.

2017-11-01

Imaging with structured illumination allows for the retrieval of subwavelength features of an object by conversion of evanescent waves into propagating waves. In conditions in which the object plane and the structured-illumination plane do not coincide, this conversion process is subject to progressive filtering of the components with high spatial frequency when the distance between the two planes increases, until the diffraction-limited lateral resolution is restored when the distance exceeds the extension of evanescent waves. We study the progressive filtering of evanescent waves by developing a remote super-resolution terahertz imaging system operating at a wavelength λ =1.00 mm , based on a freestanding knife edge and a reflective confocal terahertz microscope. In the images recorded with increasing knife-edge-to-object-plane distance, we observe the transition from a super-resolution of λ /17 ≃60 μ m to the diffraction-limited lateral resolution of Δ x ≃λ expected for our confocal microscope. The extreme nonparaxial conditions are analyzed in detail, exploiting the fact that, in the terahertz frequency range, the knife edge can be positioned at a variable subwavelength distance from the object plane. Electromagnetic simulations of radiation scattering by the knife edge reproduce the experimental super-resolution achieved.

Bending and coupling losses in terahertz wire waveguides.

PubMed

Astley, Victoria; Scheiman, Julianna; Mendis, Rajind; Mittleman, Daniel M

2010-02-15

We present an experimental study of several common perturbations of wire waveguides for terahertz pulses. Sommerfeld waves retain significant signal strength and bandwidth even with large gaps in the wire, exhibiting more efficient recoupling at higher frequencies. We also describe a detailed study of bending losses. For a given turn angle, we observe an optimum radius of curvature that minimizes the overall propagation loss. These results emphasize the impact of the distortion of the spatial mode on the radiative bend loss.

Photonic crystals at visible, x-ray, and terahertz frequencies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Prasad, Tushar

Photonic crystals are artificial structures with a periodically varying refractive index. This property allows photonic crystals to control the propagation of photons, making them desirable components for novel photonic devices. Photonic crystals are also termed as "semiconductors of light", since they control the flow of electromagnetic radiation similar to the way electrons are excited in a semiconductor crystal. The scale of periodicity in the refractive index determines the frequency (or wavelength) of the electromagnetic waves that can be manipulated. This thesis presents a detailed analysis of photonic crystals at visible, x-ray, and terahertz frequencies. Self-assembly and spin-coating methods are used to fabricate colloidal photonic crystals at visible frequencies. Their dispersion characteristics are examined through theoretical as well as experimental studies. Based on their peculiar dispersion property called the superprism effect, a sensor that can detect small quantities of chemical substances is designed. A photonic crystal that can manipulate x-rays is fabricated by using crystals of a non-toxic plant virus as templates. Calculations show that these metallized three-dimensional crystals can find utility in x-ray optical systems. Terahertz photonic crystal slabs are fabricated by standard lithographic and etching techniques. In-plane superprism effect and out-of-plane guided resonances are studied by terahertz time-domain spectroscopy, and verified by numerical simulations.

Approaching Terahertz Range with 3-color Broadband Coherent Raman Micro Spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ujj, Laszlo; Olson, Trevor; Amos, James

The presentation reports the recent progress made on reliable signal recording and processing using 3-color broadband coherent Raman scattering (3C-BCRS). Signals are generated either from nanoparticle structures on surfaces or from bulk samples in transmission and in epi-detected mode. Spectra are recorded with a narrowband (at 532 nm) and a broadband radiation produced by a newly optimized optical parametric oscillator using the signal or idler beams. Vibrational and librational bands are measured over the 0.15-15 THz spectral range from solution and crystalline samples. Volumetric Brag-filter approach is introduced for recording 3C-BCRS spectra at the first time. The technical limitations and advantages of the narrowband filtering relative to the Notch-filter technic is clarified. The signal is proportional to the spectral autocorrelation of the broadband radiation therefore the present scheme gives a better signal-to-noise ratio relative to the traditional multiplex CRS methods. This makes the automation of non-model dependent signal processing more reliable to extract vibrational information which is very crucial in coherent Raman microscopy. Financial support from the Hal Marcus College of Science and Engineering is greatly appreciated.

Optomechanical terahertz detection with single meta-atom resonator.

PubMed

Belacel, Cherif; Todorov, Yanko; Barbieri, Stefano; Gacemi, Djamal; Favero, Ivan; Sirtori, Carlo

2017-11-17

Most of the common technologies for detecting terahertz photons (>1 THz) at room temperature rely on slow thermal devices. The realization of fast and sensitive detectors in this frequency range is indeed a notoriously difficult task. Here we propose a novel device consisting of a subwavelength terahertz meta-atom resonator, which integrates a nanomechanical element and allows energy exchange between the mechanical motion and the electromagnetic degrees of freedom. An incident terahertz wave thus produces a nanomechanical signal that can be read out optically with high precision. We exploit this concept to demonstrate a terahertz detector that operates at room temperature with high sensitivity and a much higher frequency response compared to standard detectors. Beyond the technological issue of terahertz detection, our architecture opens up new perspectives for fundamental science of light-matter interaction at terahertz frequencies, combining optomechanical approaches with semiconductor quantum heterostructures.

[A Terahertz Spectral Database Based on Browser/Server Technique].

PubMed

Zhang, Zhuo-yong; Song, Yue

2015-09-01

With the solution of key scientific and technical problems and development of instrumentation, the application of terahertz technology in various fields has been paid more and more attention. Owing to the unique characteristic advantages, terahertz technology has been showing a broad future in the fields of fast, non-damaging detections, as well as many other fields. Terahertz technology combined with other complementary methods can be used to cope with many difficult practical problems which could not be solved before. One of the critical points for further development of practical terahertz detection methods depends on a good and reliable terahertz spectral database. We developed a BS (browser/server) -based terahertz spectral database recently. We designed the main structure and main functions to fulfill practical requirements. The terahertz spectral database now includes more than 240 items, and the spectral information was collected based on three sources: (1) collection and citation from some other abroad terahertz spectral databases; (2) collected from published literatures; and (3) spectral data measured in our laboratory. The present paper introduced the basic structure and fundament functions of the terahertz spectral database developed in our laboratory. One of the key functions of this THz database is calculation of optical parameters. Some optical parameters including absorption coefficient, refractive index, etc. can be calculated based on the input THz time domain spectra. The other main functions and searching methods of the browser/server-based terahertz spectral database have been discussed. The database search system can provide users convenient functions including user registration, inquiry, displaying spectral figures and molecular structures, spectral matching, etc. The THz database system provides an on-line searching function for registered users. Registered users can compare the input THz spectrum with the spectra of database, according to

Active terahertz wave imaging system for detecting hidden objects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gan, Yuner; Liu, Ming; Zhao, Yuejin

2016-11-01

Terahertz wave can penetrate the common dielectric materials such as clothing, cardboard boxes, plastics and so on. Besides, the low photon energy and non-ionizing characteristic of the terahertz wave are especially suitable for the safety inspection of the human body. Terahertz imaging technology has a tremendous potential in the field of security inspection such as stations, airports and other public places. Terahertz wave imaging systems are divided into two categories: active terahertz imaging systems and passive terahertz imaging systems. So far, most terahertz imaging systems work at point to point mechanical scan pattern with the method of passive imaging. The imaging results of passive imaging tend to have low contrast and the image is not clear enough. This paper designs and implements an active terahertz wave imaging system combining terahertz wave transmitting and receiving with a Cassegrain antenna. The terahertz wave at the frequency of 94GHz is created by impact ionization avalanche transit time (IMPATT) diode, focused on the feed element for Cassegrain antenna by high density polyethylene (HDPE) lens, and transmitted to the human body by Cassegrain antenna. The reflected terahertz wave goes the same way it was emitted back to the feed element for Cassegrain antenna, focused on the horn antenna of detector by another high density polyethylene lens. The scanning method is the use of two-dimensional planar mirror, one responsible for horizontal scanning, and another responsible for vertical scanning. Our system can achieve a clear human body image, has better sensitivity and resolution than passive imaging system, and costs much lower than other active imaging system in the meantime.

In-vitro terahertz spectroscopy of rat skin under the action of dehydrating agents

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kolesnikov, Aleksandr S.; Kolesnikova, Ekaterina A.; Tuchina, Daria K.; Terentyuk, Artem G.; Nazarov, Maxim; Skaptsov, Alexander A.; Shkurinov, Alexander P.; Tuchin, Valery V.

2014-01-01

In the paper we present the results of study of rat skin and rat subcutaneous tumor under the action of dehydrating agents in terahertz (THz) range (15-30 THz). Frustrated Total Internal Reflection (FTIR) spectra were obtained with infrared Fourier spectrometer Nicolet 6700 and then they were recalculated in the transmittance spectra with Omnic software. Experiments were carried out with healthy and xenografted tumor in skin tissue in vitro. As the dehydrating agents 100% glycerol, 40%-water glucose solution, PEG-600, and propylene glycol were used. To determine the effect of the optical clearing agent (OCA), the alterations of terahertz transmittance for the samples were analyzed. The results have shown that PEG-600 and 40%-glucose water solution are the most effective dehydrating agent. The transmittance of healthy skin after PEG-600 application increased approximately by 6% and the transmittance of tumor tissue after PEG- 600 and 40%-glucose water solution application increased approximately by 8%. Obtained data can be useful for further application of terahertz radiation for tumor diagnostics.

First-principles study of a MXene terahertz detector.

PubMed

Jhon, Y I; Seo, M; Jhon, Y M

2017-12-21

2D transition metal carbides, nitrides, and carbonitrides called MXenes have attracted increasing attention due to their outstanding properties in many fields. By performing systematic density functional theory calculations, here we show that MXenes can serve as excellent terahertz detecting materials. Giant optical absorption and extinction coefficients are observed in the terahertz range in the most popular MXene, namely, Ti 3 C 2 , which is regardless of the stacking degree. Various other optical properties have been investigated as well in the terahertz range for in-depth understanding of its optical response. We find that the thermoelectric figure of merit (ZT) of stacked Ti 3 C 2 flakes is comparable to that of carbon nanotube films. Based on excellent terahertz absorption and decent thermoelectric efficiency in MXenes, we finally suggest the promise of MXenes in terahertz detection applications, which includes terahertz bolometers and photothermoelectric detectors. Possible ZT improvements are discussed in large-scale MXene flake films and/or MXene-polymer composite films.

Terahertz pulse generation from metal nanoparticle ink

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kato, Kosaku; Takano, Keisuke; Tadokoro, Yuzuru; Phan, Thanh Nhat Khoa; Nakajima, Makoto

2016-11-01

Terahertz pulse generation from metallic nanostructures irradiated by femtosecond laser pulses is of interest because the conversion efficiency from laser pulses to terahertz waves is increased by the local field enhancement resulting from the plasmon oscillation. In this talk we present our recent study on terahertz generation from metal nanoparticle ink. We baked a silver nanoparticle ink spin-coated onto a glass coverslip in various temperatures. On the surface of the baked ink, bumpy nanostructures are spontaneously formed, and the average size of bumps depends on the baking temperature. These structures are expected to lead to local field enhancement and then large nonlinear polarizations on the surface. The baked ink was irradiated by the output of regeneratively amplified Ti:sapphire femtosecond laser at an incidence angle of 45°. Waveforms of generated terahertz pulses are detected by electro-optical sampling. The generation efficiency was high when the average diameter of bumps was around 100 nm, which is realized when the ink is baked in 205 to 235°C in our setup. One of our next research targets is terahertz wave generation from micro-patterned metallic nanoparticle ink. It is an advantage of the metal nanoparticle ink that by using inkjet printers one can fabricate various patterns with micrometer scales, in which terahertz waves have a resonance. Combination of microstructures made by a printer and nanostructure spontaneously formed in the baking process will provide us terahertz emitters with unique frequency characteristics.

Research on terahertz properties of rat brain tissue sections during dehydration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cui, Gangqiang; Liang, Jianfeng; Zhao, Hongwei; Zhao, Xianghui; Chang, Chao

2018-01-01

Biological tissue sections are always kept in a system purged with dry nitrogen for the measurement of terahertz spectrum. However, the injected nitrogen will cause dehydration of tissue sections, which will affect the accuracy of spectrum measurement. In this paper, terahertz time-domain spectrometer is used to measure the terahertz spectra of rat brain tissue sections during dehydration. The changes of terahertz properties, including terahertz transmittance, refractive index and extinction coefficient during dehydration are also analyzed. The amplitudes of terahertz time-domain spectra increase gradually during the dehydration process. Besides, the terahertz properties show obvious changes during the dehydration process. All the results indicate that the injected dry nitrogen has a significant effect on the terahertz spectra and properties of tissue sections. This study contributes to further research and application of terahertz technology in biomedical field.

Narrowband infrared emitters for combat ID

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pralle, Martin U.; Puscasu, Irina; Daly, James; Fallon, Keith; Loges, Peter; Greenwald, Anton; Johnson, Edward

2007-04-01

There is a strong desire to create narrowband infrared light sources as personnel beacons for application in infrared Identify Friend or Foe (IFF) systems. This demand has augmented dramatically in recent years with the reports of friendly fire casualties in Afghanistan and Iraq. ICx Photonics' photonic crystal enhanced TM (PCE TM) infrared emitter technology affords the possibility of creating narrowband IR light sources tuned to specific IR wavebands (near 1-2 microns, mid 3-5 microns, and long 8-12 microns) making it the ideal solution for infrared IFF. This technology is based on a metal coated 2D photonic crystal of air holes in a silicon substrate. Upon thermal excitation the photonic crystal modifies the emitted yielding narrowband IR light with center wavelength commensurate with the periodicity of the lattice. We have integrated this technology with microhotplate MEMS devices to yield 15mW IR light sources in the 3-5 micron waveband with wall plug efficiencies in excess of 10%, 2 orders of magnitude more efficient that conventional IR LEDs. We have further extended this technology into the LWIR with a light source that produces 9 mW of 8-12 micron light at an efficiency of 8%. Viewing distances >500 meters were observed with fielded camera technologies, ideal for ground to ground troop identification. When grouped into an emitter panel, the viewing distances were extended to 5 miles, ideal for ground to air identification.

Subwavelength micropillar array terahertz lasers.

PubMed

Krall, Michael; Brandstetter, Martin; Deutsch, Christoph; Detz, Hermann; Andrews, Aaron Maxwell; Schrenk, Werner; Strasser, Gottfried; Unterrainer, Karl

2014-01-13

We report on micropillar-based terahertz lasers with active pillars that are much smaller than the emission wavelength. These micropillar array lasers correspond to scaled-down band-edge photonic crystal lasers forming an active photonic metamaterial. In contrast to photonic crystal lasers which use significantly larger pillar structures, lasing emission is not observed close to high-symmetry points in the photonic band diagram, but in the effective medium regime. We measure stimulated emission at 4 THz for micropillar array lasers with pillar diameters of 5 µm. Our results not only demonstrate the integration of active subwavelength optics in a terahertz laser, but are also an important step towards the realization of nanowire-based terahertz lasers.

Development and Testing of a Single Frequency Terahertz Imaging System for Breast Cancer Detection

PubMed Central

St. Peter, Benjamin; Yngvesson, Sigfrid; Siqueira, Paul; Kelly, Patrick; Khan, Ashraf; Glick, Stephen; Karellas, Andrew

2013-01-01

The ability to discern malignant from benign tissue in excised human breast specimens in Breast Conservation Surgery (BCS) was evaluated using single frequency terahertz radiation. Terahertz (THz) images of the specimens in reflection mode were obtained by employing a gas laser source and mechanical scanning. The images were correlated with optical histological micrographs of the same specimens, and a mean discrimination of 73% was found for five out of six samples using Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis. The system design and characterization is discussed in detail. The initial results are encouraging but further development of the technology and clinical evaluation is needed to evaluate its feasibility in the clinical environment. PMID:25055306

Derivation of Improved Surface and TOA Broadband Fluxes Using CERES-derived Narrowband-to-Broadband Coefficients

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Khaiyer, Mandana M.; Doelling, David R.; Chan, Pui K.; Nordeen, MIchele L.; Palikonda, Rabindra; Yi, Yuhong; Minnis, Patrick

2006-01-01

Satellites can provide global coverage of a number of climatically important radiative parameters, including broadband (BB) shortwave (SW) and longwave (LW) fluxes at the top of the atmosphere (TOA) and surface. These parameters can be estimated from narrowband (NB) Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite (GOES) data, but their accuracy is highly dependent on the validity of the narrowband-to-broadband (NB-BB) conversion formulas that are used to convert the NB fluxes to broadband values. The formula coefficients have historically been derived by regressing matched polarorbiting satellite BB fluxes or radiances with their NB counterparts from GOES (e.g., Minnis et al., 1984). More recently, the coefficients have been based on matched Earth Radiation Budget Experiment (ERBE) and GOES-6 data (Minnis and Smith, 1998). The Clouds and the Earth's Radiant Energy Budget (CERES see Wielicki et al. 1998)) project has recently developed much improved Angular Distribution Models (ADM; Loeb et al., 2003) and has higher resolution data compared to ERBE. A limited set of coefficients was also derived from matched GOES-8 and CERES data taken on Topical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) satellite (Chakrapani et al., 2003; Doelling et al., 2003). The NB-BB coefficients derived from CERES and the GOES suite should yield more accurate BB fluxes than from ERBE, but are limited spatially and seasonally. With CERES data taken from Terra and Aqua, it is now possible to derive more reliable NB-BB coefficients for any given area. Better TOA fluxes should translate to improved surface radiation fluxes derived using various algorithms. As part of an ongoing effort to provide accurate BB flux estimates for the Atmospheric Radiation Measurement (ARM) Program, this paper documents the derivation of new NB-BB coefficients for the ARM Southern Great Plains (SGP) domain and for the Darwin region of the Tropical Western Pacific (DTWP) domain.

Frequency Up-Conversion Photon-Type Terahertz Imager.

PubMed

Fu, Z L; Gu, L L; Guo, X G; Tan, Z Y; Wan, W J; Zhou, T; Shao, D X; Zhang, R; Cao, J C

2016-05-05

Terahertz imaging has many important potential applications. Due to the failure of Si readout integrated circuits (ROICs) and the thermal mismatch between the photo-detector arrays and the ROICs at temperatures below 40 K, there are big technical challenges to construct terahertz photo-type focal plane arrays. In this work, we report pixel-less photo-type terahertz imagers based on the frequency up-conversion technique. The devices are composed of terahertz quantum-well photo-detectors (QWPs) and near-infrared (NIR) light emitting diodes (LEDs) which are grown in sequence on the same substrates using molecular beam epitaxy. In such an integrated QWP-LED device, photocurrent in the QWP drives the LED to emit NIR light. By optimizing the structural parameters of the QWP-LED, the QWP part and the LED part both work well. The maximum values of the internal and external energy up-conversion efficiencies are around 20% and 0.5%. A laser spot of a homemade terahertz quantum cascade laser is imaged by the QWP-LED together with a commercial Si camera. The pixel-less imaging results show that the image blurring induced by the transverse spreading of photocurrent is negligible. The demonstrated pixel-less imaging opens a new way to realize high performance terahertz imaging devices.

Frequency Up-Conversion Photon-Type Terahertz Imager

PubMed Central

Fu, Z. L.; Gu, L. L.; Guo, X. G.; Tan, Z. Y.; Wan, W. J.; Zhou, T.; Shao, D. X.; Zhang, R.; Cao, J. C.

2016-01-01

Terahertz imaging has many important potential applications. Due to the failure of Si readout integrated circuits (ROICs) and the thermal mismatch between the photo-detector arrays and the ROICs at temperatures below 40 K, there are big technical challenges to construct terahertz photo-type focal plane arrays. In this work, we report pixel-less photo-type terahertz imagers based on the frequency up-conversion technique. The devices are composed of terahertz quantum-well photo-detectors (QWPs) and near-infrared (NIR) light emitting diodes (LEDs) which are grown in sequence on the same substrates using molecular beam epitaxy. In such an integrated QWP-LED device, photocurrent in the QWP drives the LED to emit NIR light. By optimizing the structural parameters of the QWP-LED, the QWP part and the LED part both work well. The maximum values of the internal and external energy up-conversion efficiencies are around 20% and 0.5%. A laser spot of a homemade terahertz quantum cascade laser is imaged by the QWP-LED together with a commercial Si camera. The pixel-less imaging results show that the image blurring induced by the transverse spreading of photocurrent is negligible. The demonstrated pixel-less imaging opens a new way to realize high performance terahertz imaging devices. PMID:27147281

Low-coherence terahertz tomography based on spatially separated counterpropagating beams with allowance for probe radiation absorption in the medium

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

Mandrosov, V I

2015-10-31

This paper analyses low-coherence tomography of absorbing media with the use of spatially separated counterpropagating object and reference beams. A probe radiation source based on a broadband terahertz (THz) generator that emits sufficiently intense THz waves in the spectral range 90 – 350 μm and a prism spectroscope that separates out eight narrow intervals from this range are proposed for implementing this method. This allows media of interest to be examined by low-coherence tomography with counterpropagating beams in each interval. It is shown that, according to the Rayleigh criterion, the method is capable of resolving inhomogeneities with a size nearmore » one quarter of the coherence length of the probe radiation. In addition, the proposed tomograph configuration allows one to determine the average surface asperity slope and the refractive index and absorption coefficient of inhomogeneities 180 to 700 mm in size, and obtain spectra of such inhomogeneities in order to determine their chemical composition. (laser applications and other topics in quantum electronics)« less

The effect of beam pre-bunching on the excitation of terahertz plasmons in a parallel plane guiding system

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

Sharma, Suresh C.; Malik, Pratibha

2015-04-15

The excitation of terahertz (THz) plasmons by a pre-bunched relativistic electron beam propagating in a parallel plane semiconducting guiding system is studied. It is found that the n-InSb semiconductor strongly supports the confined surface plasmons in the terahertz frequency range. The growth rate and efficiency of the THz surface plasmons increase linearly with modulation index and show the largest value as modulation index approaches unity. Moreover, the growth rate of the instability scales as one-third power of the beam density and inverse one-third power of the THz radiation frequency.

Terahertz generation by beating two Langmuir waves in a warm and collisional plasma

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

Zhang, Xiao-Bo; Qiao, Xin; Cheng, Li-Hong

2015-09-15

Terahertz (THz) radiation generated by beating of two Langmuir waves in a warm and collisional plasma is discussed theoretically. The critical angle between the two Langmuir waves and the critical wave-length (wave vector) of Langmuir waves for generating THz radiation are obtained analytically. Furthermore, the maximum radiation energy is obtained. We find that the critical angle, the critical wave-length, and the generated radiation energy strongly depend on plasma temperature and wave-length of the Langmuir waves. That is, the THz radiation generated by beating of two Langmuir waves in a warm and collisional plasma can be controlled by adjusting the plasmamore » temperature and the Langmuir wave-length.« less

Compact four-channel terahertz demultiplexer based on directional coupling photonic crystal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiu-Sheng, Li; Han, Liu; Le, Zhang

2015-09-01

Electromagnetic polarization conveys valuable information for signal processing. Manipulation of terahertz wavelength demultiplexer exhibits tremendous potential in developing application of terahertz science and technology. We propose an approach to separate efficiently four frequencies terahertz waves based on three cascaded directional coupling two-dimensional photonic crystal waveguides. Both plane wave expansion method and finite-difference time-domain method are used to calculate and analyze the characteristics of the proposed device. The simulation results show that the designed terahertz wavelength demultiplexer can split four different wavelengths of terahertz wave into different propagation directions with high transmittance and low crosstalk. The present device is very compact and the total size is 6.8×10.6 mm2. This enables the terahertz wavelength demultiplexer to be used in terahertz wave system and terahertz wave integrated circuit fields.

Specificity and Heterogeneity of Terahertz Radiation Effect on Gene Expression in Mouse Mesenchymal Stem Cells

DOE PAGES

Alexandrov, Boian S.; Phipps, M. Lisa; Alexandrov, Ludmil B.; ...

2013-01-31

In this paper, we report that terahertz (THz) irradiation of mouse mesenchymal stem cells (mMSCs) with a single-frequency (SF) 2.52 THz laser or pulsed broadband (centered at 10 THz) source results in irradiation specific heterogenic changes in gene expression. The THz effect depends on irradiation parameters such as the duration and type of THz source, and on the degree of stem cell differentiation. Our microarray survey and RT-PCR experiments demonstrate that prolonged broadband THz irradiation drives mMSCs toward differentiation, while 2-hour irradiation (regardless of THz sources) affects genes transcriptionally active in pluripotent stem cells. The strictly controlled experimental environment indicatesmore » minimal temperature changes and the absence of any discernable response to heat shock and cellular stress genes imply a non-thermal response. Computer simulations of the core promoters of two pluripotency markers reveal association between gene upregulation and propensity for DNA breathing. Finally, we propose that THz radiation has potential for non-contact control of cellular gene expression.« less

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.

A Serendipitous MWA Search for Narrowband Signals from ‘Oumuamua

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tingay, S. J.; Kaplan, D. L.; Lenc, E.; Croft, S.; McKinley, B.; Beardsley, A.; Crosse, B.; Emrich, D.; Franzen, T. M. O.; Gaensler, B. M.; Horsley, L.; Johnston-Hollitt, M.; Kenney, D.; Morales, M. F.; Pallot, D.; Steele, K.; Trott, C. M.; Walker, M.; Wayth, R. B.; Williams, A.; Wu, C.

2018-04-01

We examine data from the Murchison Widefield Array (MWA) in the frequency range 72–102 MHz for a field of view that serendipitously contained the interstellar object ‘Oumuamua on 2017 November 28. Observations took place with a time resolution of 0.5 s and a frequency resolution of 10 kHz. Based on the interesting but highly unlikely suggestion that ‘Oumuamua is an interstellar spacecraft, due to some unusual orbital and morphological characteristics, we examine our data for signals that might indicate the presence of intelligent life associated with ‘Oumuamua. We searched our radio data for (1) impulsive narrowband signals, (2) persistent narrowband signals, and (3) impulsive broadband signals. We found no such signals with nonterrestrial origins and make estimates of the upper limits on equivalent isotropic radiated power (EIRP) for these three cases of approximately 7 kW, 840 W, and 100 kW, respectively. These transmitter powers are well within the capabilities of human technologies, and are therefore plausible for alien civilizations. While the chances of positive detection in any given search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI) experiment are vanishingly small, the characteristics of new generation telescopes such as the MWA (and, in the future, the Square Kilometre Array) make certain classes of SETI experiments easy, or even a trivial by-product of astrophysical observations. This means that the future costs of SETI experiments are very low, allowing large target lists to partially balance the low probability of a positive detection.

Resonance properties of Ag-ZnO nanostructures at terahertz frequencies

PubMed Central

Sanchez, John E.; Díaz de León, Ramón; Mendoza-Santoyo, Fernando; González, Gabriel; José-Yacaman, Miguel; Ponce, Arturo; González, Francisco Javier

2015-01-01

Nanoantennas have been fabricated by scaling down traditional antenna designs using nanolithographic techniques and testing them at different optical wavelengths, these particular nanoantennas have shown responses in a broad range of frequencies going from visible wavelengths to the range of the terahertz. Some self-assembled nanostructures exist that exhibit similar shapes and properties to those of traditional antenna structures. In this work the emission and absorption properties of self-assembled nanostructures made of zinc oxide nanorods on silver nanowires, which resemble traditional dipole antennas, were measured and simulated in order to test their antenna performance. These structures show resonant properties in the 10-120 THz range, with the main resonance at 60 THz. The radiation pattern of these nanostructures was also obtained by numerical simulations, and it is shown that it can be tailored to increase or decrease its directivity as a function of the location of the energy source of excitation. Experimental measurements were performed by Raman spectroscopy and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) in order to show existing vibrational frequencies at the resonant frequencies of the nanostructures, measurements were made from ~9 to 103 THz and the results were in agreement with the simulations. These characteristics make these metal-semiconductor Ag/ZnO nanostructures useful as self-assembled nanoantennas in applications such as terahertz spectroscopy and sensing at terahertz frequencies. PMID:26406710

Real-time terahertz near-field microscope.

PubMed

Blanchard, F; Doi, A; Tanaka, T; Hirori, H; Tanaka, H; Kadoya, Y; Tanaka, K

2011-04-25

We report a terahertz near-field microscope with a high dynamic range that can capture images of a 370 x 740 μm2 area at 35 frames per second. We achieve high spatial resolution (14 μm corresponding to λ/30 for a center frequency at 0.7 THz) on a large area by combining two novel techniques: terahertz generation by tilted-pulse-front excitation and electro-optic balanced imaging detection using a thin crystal. To demonstrate the microscope capability, we reveal the field enhancement at the gap position of a dipole antenna after the irradiation of a terahertz pulse.

Development of a wavefront sensor for terahertz pulses.

PubMed

Abraham, Emmanuel; Cahyadi, Harsono; Brossard, Mathilde; Degert, Jérôme; Freysz, Eric; Yasui, Takeshi

2016-03-07

Wavefront characterization of terahertz pulses is essential to optimize far-field intensity distribution of time-domain (imaging) spectrometers or increase the peak power of intense terahertz sources. In this paper, we report on the wavefront measurement of terahertz pulses using a Hartmann sensor associated with a 2D electro-optic imaging system composed of a ZnTe crystal and a CMOS camera. We quantitatively determined the deformations of planar and converging spherical wavefronts using the modal Zernike reconstruction least-squares method. Associated with deformable mirrors, the sensor will also open the route to terahertz adaptive optics.

Terahertz radar cross section measurements.

PubMed

Iwaszczuk, Krzysztof; Heiselberg, Henning; Jepsen, Peter Uhd

2010-12-06

We perform angle- and frequency-resolved radar cross section (RCS) measurements on objects at terahertz frequencies. Our RCS measurements are performed on a scale model aircraft of size 5-10 cm in polar and azimuthal configurations, and correspond closely to RCS measurements with conventional radar on full-size objects. The measurements are performed in a terahertz time-domain system with freely propagating terahertz pulses generated by tilted pulse front excitation of lithium niobate crystals and measured with sub-picosecond time resolution. The application of a time domain system provides ranging information and also allows for identification of scattering points such as weaponry attached to the aircraft. The shapes of the models and positions of reflecting parts are retrieved by the filtered back projection algorithm.

Infrared Radiative Properties of Food Materials

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Precisely, infrared radiation is electromagnetic radiation whose wavelength is longer than that of visible light, but shorter than that of terahertz radiation and microwaves. The infrared portion of the electromagnetic spectrum spans roughly three orders of magnitude (750 nm to 100 µm) and has been...

Active graphene-silicon hybrid diode for terahertz waves.

PubMed

Li, Quan; Tian, Zhen; Zhang, Xueqian; Singh, Ranjan; Du, Liangliang; Gu, Jianqiang; Han, Jiaguang; Zhang, Weili

2015-05-11

Controlling the propagation properties of the terahertz waves in graphene holds great promise in enabling novel technologies for the convergence of electronics and photonics. A diode is a fundamental electronic device that allows the passage of current in just one direction based on the polarity of the applied voltage. With simultaneous optical and electrical excitations, we experimentally demonstrate an active diode for the terahertz waves consisting of a graphene-silicon hybrid film. The diode transmits terahertz waves when biased with a positive voltage while attenuates the wave under a low negative voltage, which can be seen as an analogue of an electronic semiconductor diode. Here, we obtain a large transmission modulation of 83% in the graphene-silicon hybrid film, which exhibits tremendous potential for applications in designing broadband terahertz modulators and switchable terahertz plasmonic and metamaterial devices.

Continuous-wave terahertz imaging of nonmelanoma skin cancers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Joseph, Cecil Sudhir

Continuous wave terahertz imaging has the potential to offer a safe, non-invasive medical imaging modality for detecting different types of human skin cancers. Terahertz pulse imaging (TPI) has already shown that there is contrast between basal cell carcinoma and normal skin. Continuous-wave imaging offers a simpler, lower cost alternative to terahertz pulse imaging. This project aims to isolate the optimal contrast frequency for a continuous wave terahertz imaging system and demonstrate transmission based, in-vitro , imaging of thin sections of non-melanoma skin cancers and correlate the images to sample histology. The aim of this project is to conduct a proof-of-principle experiment that establishes whether continuous-wave terahertz imaging can detect differences between cancerous and normal tissue while outlining the basic requirements for building a system capable of performing in vivo tests.

Active graphene–silicon hybrid diode for terahertz waves

PubMed Central

Li, Quan; Tian, Zhen; Zhang, Xueqian; Singh, Ranjan; Du, Liangliang; Gu, Jianqiang; Han, Jiaguang; Zhang, Weili

2015-01-01

Controlling the propagation properties of the terahertz waves in graphene holds great promise in enabling novel technologies for the convergence of electronics and photonics. A diode is a fundamental electronic device that allows the passage of current in just one direction based on the polarity of the applied voltage. With simultaneous optical and electrical excitations, we experimentally demonstrate an active diode for the terahertz waves consisting of a graphene–silicon hybrid film. The diode transmits terahertz waves when biased with a positive voltage while attenuates the wave under a low negative voltage, which can be seen as an analogue of an electronic semiconductor diode. Here, we obtain a large transmission modulation of 83% in the graphene–silicon hybrid film, which exhibits tremendous potential for applications in designing broadband terahertz modulators and switchable terahertz plasmonic and metamaterial devices. PMID:25959596

Phase-slope and phase measurements of tunable CW-THz radiation with terahertz comb for wide-dynamic-range, high-resolution, distance measurement of optically rough object.

PubMed

Yasui, Takeshi; Fujio, Makoto; Yokoyama, Shuko; Araki, Tsutomu

2014-07-14

Phase measurement of continuous-wave terahertz (CW-THz) radiation is a potential tool for direct distance and imaging measurement of optically rough objects due to its high robustness to optical rough surfaces. However, the 2π phase ambiguity in the phase measurement of single-frequency CW-THz radiation limits the dynamic range of the measured distance to the order of the wavelength used. In this article, phase-slope measurement of tunable CW-THz radiation with a THz frequency comb was effectively used to extend the dynamic range up to 1.834 m while maintaining an error of a few tens µm in the distance measurement of an optically rough object. Furthermore, a combination of phase-slope measurement of tunable CW-THz radiation and phase measurement of single-frequency CW-THz radiation enhanced the distance error to a few µm within the dynamic range of 1.834 m without any influence from the 2π phase ambiguity. The proposed method will be a powerful tool for the construction and maintenance of large-scale structures covered with optically rough surfaces.

Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen Entanglement of Narrow-Band Photons from Cold Atoms.

PubMed

Lee, Jong-Chan; Park, Kwang-Kyoon; Zhao, Tian-Ming; Kim, Yoon-Ho

2016-12-16

Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen (EPR) entanglement introduced in 1935 deals with two particles that are entangled in their positions and momenta. Here we report the first experimental demonstration of EPR position-momentum entanglement of narrow-band photon pairs generated from cold atoms. By using two-photon quantum ghost imaging and ghost interference, we demonstrate explicitly that the narrow-band photon pairs violate the separability criterion, confirming EPR entanglement. We further demonstrate continuous variable EPR steering for positions and momenta of the two photons. Our new source of EPR-entangled narrow-band photons is expected to play an essential role in spatially multiplexed quantum information processing, such as, storage of quantum correlated images, quantum interface involving hyperentangled photons, etc.

Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen Entanglement of Narrow-Band Photons from Cold Atoms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Jong-Chan; Park, Kwang-Kyoon; Zhao, Tian-Ming; Kim, Yoon-Ho

2016-12-01

Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen (EPR) entanglement introduced in 1935 deals with two particles that are entangled in their positions and momenta. Here we report the first experimental demonstration of EPR position-momentum entanglement of narrow-band photon pairs generated from cold atoms. By using two-photon quantum ghost imaging and ghost interference, we demonstrate explicitly that the narrow-band photon pairs violate the separability criterion, confirming EPR entanglement. We further demonstrate continuous variable EPR steering for positions and momenta of the two photons. Our new source of EPR-entangled narrow-band photons is expected to play an essential role in spatially multiplexed quantum information processing, such as, storage of quantum correlated images, quantum interface involving hyperentangled photons, etc.

Photonics and terahertz tchnologies: part 1

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Romaniuk, Ryszard S.

2011-10-01

This digest paper debates basic features of the terahertz band of frequencies. There are presented fundamental characteristics of the basic terahertz system consisting of a THz source, propagation media, transmission lines, THz signal processing, and detectors. Such a system finds research application, but also practical in two main areas: terahertz imaging - transmissive and reflective, and as a close range THz radar, but also as sensory systems mainly for molecular sensing. There were launched in this country a few THz research projects concerning the THz sources, detectors and their applications. Among these projects there is an infrastructural one called FOTEH, opened at the WUT. The details of this project are debated and the consequences of its realization in this country. The first part of the paper is an introduction debating THz band and comparing it with the photonics one. The second part presents the assumptions of the infrastructural FOTEH project on Photonics and Terahertz Technologies.

Recent developments in terahertz sensing technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shur, Michael

2016-05-01

Terahertz technology has found numerous applications for the detection of biological and chemical hazardous agents, medical diagnostics, detection of explosives, providing security in buildings, airports, and other public spaces, shortrange covert communications (in the THz and sub-THz windows), and applications in radio astronomy and space research. The expansion of these applications will depend on the development of efficient electronic terahertz sources and sensitive low-noise terahertz detectors. Schottky diode frequency multipliers have emerged as a viable THz source technology reaching a few THz. High speed three terminal electronic devices (FETs and HBTs) have entered the THz range (with cutoff frequencies and maximum frequencies of operation above 1 THz). A new approach called plasma wave electronics recently demonstrated an efficient terahertz detection in GaAs-based and GaN-based HEMTs and in Si MOS, SOI, FINFETs and in FET arrays. This progress in THz electronic technology has promise for a significant expansion of THz applications.

All-dielectric metalens for terahertz wave imaging.

PubMed

Jiang, Xue; Chen, Hao; Li, Zeyu; Yuan, Hongkuan; Cao, Luyao; Luo, Zhenfei; Zhang, Kun; Zhang, Zhihai; Wen, Zhongquan; Zhu, Li-Guo; Zhou, Xun; Liang, Gaofeng; Ruan, Desheng; Du, Lianghui; Wang, Lingfang; Chen, Gang

2018-05-28

Terahertz wave imaging offers promising properties for non-destructive testing applications in the areas of homeland security, medicine, and industrial inspection. However, conventional optical lenses are heavy and bulky and difficult to integrate. An all-dielectric metasurface provides an attractive way to realize a planar lens of light weight that is ultrathin and offers ease of integration. Terahertz lenses based on various metasurfaces have been studied, especially for the application of wave focusing, while there are few experimental demonstrations of terahertz wave imaging lenses based on an all-dielectric metasurface. In the present work, we propose a metalens based on an all-dielectric metasurface with a sub-wavelength unit size of 0.39λ for terahertz wave imaging and experimentally demonstrate its performance in focusing and imaging. A large numerical aperture metalens was fabricated with a focal length of 300λ, radius of 300λ, and numerical aperture of 0.707. The experimental results show that the lens can focus THz waves with an incident angle up to 48°. More importantly, clear terahertz wave images of different objects were obtained for both different cases of forward- and inverse-incident directions, which demonstrate the reversibility of the metalens for imaging. Such a metalens provides a way for realization of all-planar-lens THz imaging system, and might find application in terahertz wave imaging, information processing, microscopy, and others.

The interaction between electromagnetic fields at megahertz, gigahertz and terahertz frequencies with cells, tissues and organisms: risks and potential

PubMed Central

Begley, Ryan; Harvey, Alan R.; Hool, Livia; Wallace, Vincent P.

2017-01-01

Since regular radio broadcasts started in the 1920s, the exposure to human-made electromagnetic fields has steadily increased. These days we are not only exposed to radio waves but also other frequencies from a variety of sources, mainly from communication and security devices. Considering that nearly all biological systems interact with electromagnetic fields, understanding the affects is essential for safety and technological progress. This paper systematically reviews the role and effects of static and pulsed radio frequencies (100–109 Hz), millimetre waves (MMWs) or gigahertz (109–1011 Hz), and terahertz (1011–1013 Hz) on various biomolecules, cells and tissues. Electromagnetic fields have been shown to affect the activity in cell membranes (sodium versus potassium ion conductivities) and non-selective channels, transmembrane potentials and even the cell cycle. Particular attention is given to millimetre and terahertz radiation due to their increasing utilization and, hence, increasing human exposure. MMWs are known to alter active transport across cell membranes, and it has been reported that terahertz radiation may interfere with DNA and cause genomic instabilities. These and other phenomena are discussed along with the discrepancies and controversies from published studies. PMID:29212756

The interaction between electromagnetic fields at megahertz, gigahertz and terahertz frequencies with cells, tissues and organisms: risks and potential.

PubMed

Romanenko, Sergii; Begley, Ryan; Harvey, Alan R; Hool, Livia; Wallace, Vincent P

2017-12-01

Since regular radio broadcasts started in the 1920s, the exposure to human-made electromagnetic fields has steadily increased. These days we are not only exposed to radio waves but also other frequencies from a variety of sources, mainly from communication and security devices. Considering that nearly all biological systems interact with electromagnetic fields, understanding the affects is essential for safety and technological progress. This paper systematically reviews the role and effects of static and pulsed radio frequencies (10 0 -10 9 Hz), millimetre waves (MMWs) or gigahertz (10 9 -10 11 Hz), and terahertz (10 11 -10 13 Hz) on various biomolecules, cells and tissues. Electromagnetic fields have been shown to affect the activity in cell membranes (sodium versus potassium ion conductivities) and non-selective channels, transmembrane potentials and even the cell cycle. Particular attention is given to millimetre and terahertz radiation due to their increasing utilization and, hence, increasing human exposure. MMWs are known to alter active transport across cell membranes, and it has been reported that terahertz radiation may interfere with DNA and cause genomic instabilities. These and other phenomena are discussed along with the discrepancies and controversies from published studies. © 2017 The Author(s).

Numeric analysis of terahertz wave propagation in familiar packaging materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Lihong; Yang, Guang

2015-10-01

To assess the potential application of terahertz waves in security examination, the transmission characteristics of terahertz waves in packaging materials should be studied. This paper simulates the propagation of terahertz waves in cloth and paper, studies the changes of shape and position of crest of terahertz waves before and after these materials, and gets the law of these changes, which has potential applications in thickness measurement for the thin insulated materials; gives reflected and transmitted wave of terahertz waves, and computes reflected and transmitted coefficient, indicates the good transmission properties of these materials for terahertz waves, which provides the theoretical basis for the realization of contactless security examination of packaged post, package and people pass the important passageway (such as airport and station).

Triple-wavelength, narrowband Mg/SiC multilayers with corrosion barriers and high peak reflectance in the 25-80 nm wavelength region

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

Fernández-Perea, Mónica; Soufli, Regina; Robinson, Jeff C.

2012-01-01

We have developed new, corrosion-resistant Mg/SiC multilayer coatings which can be used to efficiently and simultaneously reflect extreme ultraviolet (EUV) radiation in single or multiple narrow bands centered at wavelengths in the spectral region from 25 to 80 nm. Corrosion mitigation is achieved through the use of partially amorphous Al-Mg thin layers. Three different multilayer design concepts were developed and deposited by magnetron sputtering and the reflectance was measured at near-normal incidence in a broad spectral range. Unprotected Mg/SiC multilayers were also deposited and measured for comparison. They were shown to efficiently reflect radiation at a wavelength of 76.9 nmmore » with a peak reflectance of 40.6% at near-normal incidence, the highest experimental reflectance reported at this wavelength for a narrowband coating. The demonstration of multilayer coatings with corrosion resistance and multiplewavelength EUV performance is of great interest in the development of mirrors for space-borne solar physics telescopes and other applications requiring long-lasting coatings with narrowband response in multiple emission lines across the EUV range.« less

Narrowband ultraviolet B (UVB) phototherapy in children.

PubMed

Jury, C S; McHenry, P; Burden, A D; Lever, R; Bilsland, D

2006-03-01

While narrowband ultraviolet B (UVB) phototherapy is a well-established treatment for a range of skin conditions in adults, there is little in the literature about its use in children and data regarding its long-term carcinogenic potential are lacking. We undertook a retrospective review of the use of narrowband UVB phototherapy in a paediatric population attending two Glasgow Hospitals. Phototherapy case notes for all children aged 16 years and under at time of treatment were reviewed at two hospital sites between 1996 and 2002. In total, 77 children had been treated (median age 12 years, range 4-16). The conditions treated most frequently were psoriasis (45%) and atopic eczema (32%). Other dermatoses treated included alopecia areata, acne, hydroa vacciniforme and polymorphic light eruption. Treatment courses for atopic conditions were longer than those required for psoriatic conditions: median number of treatments 24 for atopic eczema (range 3-46), and 17.5 for psoriasis (range 9-35). By the end of treatment, 68% of the atopic patients and 63% of the patients with psoriasis had cleared. The adverse event profile was similar to that in adults, with erythema, herpes simplex reactivation and PLE all recorded. Anxiety was a problem for five patients. We conclude that narrowband UVB phototherapy is a useful and well-tolerated treatment for children with severe or intractable inflammatory skin disease, but concerns remain regarding long-term side-effects.

Optical and terahertz energy concentration on the nanoscale in plasmonics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rusina, Anastasia

We introduce an approach to implement full coherent control on nanometer length scales. It is based on spatiotemporal modulation of the surface plasmon polariton (SPP) fields at the thick edge of a nanowedge. The SPP wavepackets propagating toward the sharp edge of this nanowedge are compressed and adiabatically concentrated at a nanofocus, forming an ultrashort pulse of local fields. The profile of the focused waveform as a function of time and one spatial dimension is completely coherently controlled. We establish the principal limits for the nanoconcentration of the terahertz (THz) radiation in metal/dielectric waveguides and determine their optimum shapes required for this nanoconcentration. We predict that the adiabatic compression of THz radiation from the initial spot size of vacuum wavelength R0 ≈ lambda0 ≈ 300 microm to the unprecedented final size of R = 100--250 nm can be achieved, while the THz radiation intensity is increased by a factor of 10 to 250. This THz energy nanoconcentration will not only improve the spatial resolution and increase the signal/noise ratio for THz imaging and spectroscopy, but in combination with the recently developed sources of powerful THz pulses, will allow the observation of nonlinear THz effects and a variety of nonlinear spectroscopies (such as two-dimensional spectroscopy), which are highly informative. This should find a wide spectrum of applications in science, engineering, biomedical research and environmental monitoring. We also develop a theory of the spoof plasmons propagating at the interface between a dielectric and a real conductor. The deviation from a perfect conductor is introduced through a finite skin depth. The possibilities of guiding and focusing of spoof plasmons are considered. Geometrical parameters of the structure are found which provide a good guiding of such modes. Moreover, the limit on the concentration by means of planar spoof plasmons in case of non-ideal metal is established. These

A new method to obtain narrowband emission from a broadband current using increased impedance of plasma-like media (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hur, Min Sup; Ersfeld, Bernhard; Noble, Adam; Suk, Hyyong; Jaroszynski, Dino A.

2017-05-01

In conventional radiation sources, narrowband radiation emission can be obtained by narrowband current oscillation. Usually the spectrum of the oscillating current is made narrow by a large or complicated structure for wave-particle interaction. One good example is the beam-undulator system. In this presentation, we introduce a new method to obtain a radiation emission with a well-collimated frequency without changing the broadband nature of a given current source. The method is based on our recent discovery of the new physical properties of the cut-off phenomenon, which broadly exists in general plasma-like media, such as plasma, waveguide, or photonic crystal, etc. A common feature of these media is the Bohm-Gross dispersion relation, which has a frequency condition to make the wavenumber zero. In the zero-wavenumber state, an electromagnetic wave cannot propagate through the medium, but instead, is reflected (i.e. cut-off). In regular steady-state analysis, the cut-off condition is characterized by infinite radiation impedance. An interesting question here is what would happen to the radiation power, if a non-zero current oscillating with the cut-off frequency were enforced in a medium (a current source, in contrast with the regular voltage source). A regular steady-state analysis for this situation leads to infinite power of radiation from Ohm's law. We could solve such a paradoxical situation by analyzing the non-steady-state system; we found that the system can be described by a time-dependent Schroedinger equation with an external driving term. The solution of this equation shows a temporally growing electromagnetic field. When this concept is extended to a generally broadband current source, the spectral density at the cut-off frequency can be selectively enhanced (selectively enhanced emission, SEE). Hence a general broadband radiation source can be easily converted to a narrowband source by enclosing the system with a plasma-like medium. The current

Amplification of terahertz pulses in gases beyond thermodynamic equilibrium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schwaab, G. W.; Schroeck, K.; Havenith, M.

2007-03-01

In Ebbinghaus [Plasma Sources Sci. Technol. 15, 72 (2006)] we reported terahertz time-domain spectroscopy in a plasma at low pressure, we observed a simultaneous absorption and amplification process within each single rotational transition. Here we show that this observation is a direct consequence of the short interaction time of the pulsed terahertz radiation with the plasma, which is shorter than the average collision time between the molecules. Thus, during the measurement time the molecular states may be considered entangled. Solution of the time-dependent Schrödinger equation yields a linear term that may be neglected for long observation times, large frequencies, or nonentangled states. We determine the restrictions for the observation of this effect and calculate the spectrum of a simple diatomic molecule. Using this model we are able to explain the spectral features showing a change from emission to absorption as observed previously. In addition we find that the amplification and absorption do not follow the typical Lambert-Beer exponential law but an approximate square law.

Terahertz Science, Technology, and Communication

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chattopadhyay, Goutam

2013-01-01

The term "terahertz" has been ubiquitous in the arena of technology over the past couple of years. New applications are emerging every day which are exploiting the promises of terahertz - its small wavelength; capability of penetrating dust, clouds, and fog; and possibility of having large instantaneous bandwidth for high-speed communication channels. Until very recently, space-based instruments for astrophysics, planetary science, and Earth science missions have been the primary motivator for the development of terahertz sensors, sources, and systems. However, in recent years the emerging areas such as imaging from space platforms, surveillance of person-borne hidden weapons or contraband from a safe stand-off distance and reconnaissance, medical imaging and DNA sequencing, and in the world high speed communications have been the driving force for this area of research.

Scanning Terahertz Heterodyne Imaging Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Siegel, Peter; Dengler, Robert

2007-01-01

Scanning terahertz heterodyne imaging systems are now at an early stage of development. In a basic scanning terahertz heterodyne imaging system, (see Figure 1) two far-infrared lasers generate beams denoted the local-oscillator (LO) and signal that differ in frequency by an amount, denoted the intermediate frequency (IF), chosen to suit the application. The LO beam is sent directly to a mixer as one of two inputs. The signal beam is focused to a spot on or in the specimen. After transmission through or reflection from the specimen, the beams are focused to a spot on a terahertz mixer, which extracts the IF outputs. The specimen is mounted on a translation stage, by means of which the focal spot is scanned across the specimen to build up an image.

Terahertz radiation induces non-thermal structural changes associated with Fröhlich condensation in a protein crystal

PubMed Central

Lundholm, Ida V.; Rodilla, Helena; Wahlgren, Weixiao Y.; Duelli, Annette; Bourenkov, Gleb; Vukusic, Josip; Friedman, Ran; Stake, Jan; Schneider, Thomas; Katona, Gergely

2015-01-01

Whether long-range quantum coherent states could exist in biological systems, and beyond low-temperature regimes where quantum physics is known to be applicable, has been the subject to debate for decades. It was proposed by Fröhlich that vibrational modes within protein molecules can order and condense into a lowest-frequency vibrational mode in a process similar to Bose-Einstein condensation, and thus that macroscopic coherence could potentially be observed in biological systems. Despite the prediction of these so-called Fröhlich condensates almost five decades ago, experimental evidence thereof has been lacking. Here, we present the first experimental observation of Fröhlich condensation in a protein structure. To that end, and to overcome the challenges associated with probing low-frequency molecular vibrations in proteins (which has hampered understanding of their role in proteins' function), we combined terahertz techniques with a highly sensitive X-ray crystallographic method to visualize low-frequency vibrational modes in the protein structure of hen-egg white lysozyme. We found that 0.4 THz electromagnetic radiation induces non-thermal changes in electron density. In particular, we observed a local increase of electron density in a long α-helix motif consistent with a subtle longitudinal compression of the helix. These observed electron density changes occur at a low absorption rate indicating that thermalization of terahertz photons happens on a micro- to milli-second time scale, which is much slower than the expected nanosecond time scale due to damping of delocalized low frequency vibrations. Our analyses show that the micro- to milli-second lifetime of the vibration can only be explained by Fröhlich condensation, a phenomenon predicted almost half a century ago, yet never experimentally confirmed. PMID:26798828

Terahertz radiation induces non-thermal structural changes associated with Fröhlich condensation in a protein crystal.

PubMed

Lundholm, Ida V; Rodilla, Helena; Wahlgren, Weixiao Y; Duelli, Annette; Bourenkov, Gleb; Vukusic, Josip; Friedman, Ran; Stake, Jan; Schneider, Thomas; Katona, Gergely

2015-09-01

Whether long-range quantum coherent states could exist in biological systems, and beyond low-temperature regimes where quantum physics is known to be applicable, has been the subject to debate for decades. It was proposed by Fröhlich that vibrational modes within protein molecules can order and condense into a lowest-frequency vibrational mode in a process similar to Bose-Einstein condensation, and thus that macroscopic coherence could potentially be observed in biological systems. Despite the prediction of these so-called Fröhlich condensates almost five decades ago, experimental evidence thereof has been lacking. Here, we present the first experimental observation of Fröhlich condensation in a protein structure. To that end, and to overcome the challenges associated with probing low-frequency molecular vibrations in proteins (which has hampered understanding of their role in proteins' function), we combined terahertz techniques with a highly sensitive X-ray crystallographic method to visualize low-frequency vibrational modes in the protein structure of hen-egg white lysozyme. We found that 0.4 THz electromagnetic radiation induces non-thermal changes in electron density. In particular, we observed a local increase of electron density in a long α-helix motif consistent with a subtle longitudinal compression of the helix. These observed electron density changes occur at a low absorption rate indicating that thermalization of terahertz photons happens on a micro- to milli-second time scale, which is much slower than the expected nanosecond time scale due to damping of delocalized low frequency vibrations. Our analyses show that the micro- to milli-second lifetime of the vibration can only be explained by Fröhlich condensation, a phenomenon predicted almost half a century ago, yet never experimentally confirmed.

High-resolution broadband terahertz spectroscopy via electronic heterodyne detection of photonically generated terahertz frequency comb.

PubMed

Pavelyev, D G; Skryl, A S; Bakunov, M I

2014-10-01

We report an alternative approach to the terahertz frequency-comb spectroscopy (TFCS) based on nonlinear mixing of a photonically generated terahertz pulse train with a continuous wave signal from an electronic synthesizer. A superlattice is used as a nonlinear mixer. Unlike the standard TFCS technique, this approach does not require a complex double-laser system but retains the advantages of TFCS-high spectral resolution and wide bandwidth.

Component spectra extraction from terahertz measurements of unknown mixtures.

PubMed

Li, Xian; Hou, D B; Huang, P J; Cai, J H; Zhang, G X

2015-10-20

The aim of this work is to extract component spectra from unknown mixtures in the terahertz region. To that end, a method, hard modeling factor analysis (HMFA), was applied to resolve terahertz spectral matrices collected from the unknown mixtures. This method does not require any expertise of the user and allows the consideration of nonlinear effects such as peak variations or peak shifts. It describes the spectra using a peak-based nonlinear mathematic model and builds the component spectra automatically by recombination of the resolved peaks through correlation analysis. Meanwhile, modifications on the method were made to take the features of terahertz spectra into account and to deal with the artificial baseline problem that troubles the extraction process of some terahertz spectra. In order to validate the proposed method, simulated wideband terahertz spectra of binary and ternary systems and experimental terahertz absorption spectra of amino acids mixtures were tested. In each test, not only the number of pure components could be correctly predicted but also the identified pure spectra had a good similarity with the true spectra. Moreover, the proposed method associated the molecular motions with the component extraction, making the identification process more physically meaningful and interpretable compared to other methods. The results indicate that the HMFA method with the modifications can be a practical tool for identifying component terahertz spectra in completely unknown mixtures. This work reports the solution to this kind of problem in the terahertz region for the first time, to the best of the authors' knowledge, and represents a significant advance toward exploring physical or chemical mechanisms of unknown complex systems by terahertz spectroscopy.

Plasmonic waveguide with folded stubs for highly confined terahertz propagation and concentration.

PubMed

Ye, Longfang; Xiao, Yifan; Liu, Na; Song, Zhengyong; Zhang, Wei; Liu, Qing Huo

2017-01-23

We proposed a novel planar terahertz (THz) plasmonic waveguide with folded stub arrays to achieve excellent terahertz propagation performance with tight field confinement and compact size based on the concept of spoof surface plasmon polaritons (spoof SPPs). It is found that the waveguide propagation characteristics can be directly manipulated by increasing the length of the folded stubs without increasing its lateral dimension, which exhibits much lower asymptotic frequency of the dispersion relation and even tighter terahertz field confinement than conventional plasmonic waveguides with rectangular stub arrays. Based on this waveguiding scheme, a terahertz concentrator with gradual step-length folded stubs is proposed to achieve high terahertz field enhancement, and an enhancement factor greater than 20 is demonstrated. This work offers a new perspective on very confined terahertz propagation and concentration, which may have promising potential applications in various integrated terahertz plasmonic circuits and devices, terahertz sensing and terahertz nonlinear optics.

Terahertz generation by relativistic ponderomotive focusing of two co-axial Gaussian laser beams propagating in ripple density plasma

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

Kumar, Subodh; Singh, Ram Kishor, E-mail: ram007kishor@gmail.com; Sharma, R. P.

Terahertz (THz) generation by beating of two co-axial Gaussian laser beams, propagating in ripple density plasma, has been studied when both ponderomotive and relativistic nonlinearities are operative. When the two lasers co-propagate in rippled density plasma, electrons acquire a nonlinear velocity at beat frequency in the direction transverse to the direction of propagation. This nonlinear oscillatory velocity couples with the density ripple to generate a nonlinear current, which in turn generates THz radiation at the difference frequency. The necessary phase matching condition is provided by the density ripple. Relativistic ponderomotive focusing of the two lasers and its effects on yieldmore » of the generated THz amplitude have been discussed. Numerical results show that conversion efficiency of the order of 10{sup −3} can be achieved in the terahertz radiation generation with relativistic ponderomotive focusing.« less

Theoretical analysis and simulations of strong terahertz radiation from the interaction of ultrashort laser pulses with gases

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Min; Pukhov, Alexander; Peng, Xiao-Yu; Willi, Oswald

2008-10-01

Terahertz (THz) radiation from the interaction of ultrashort laser pulses with gases is studied both by theoretical analysis and particle-in-cell (PIC) simulations. A one-dimensional THz generation model based on the transient ionization electric current mechanism is given, which explains the results of one-dimensional PIC simulations. At the same time the relation between the final THz field and the initial transient ionization current is shown. One- and two-dimensional simulations show that for the THz generation the contribution of the electric current due to ionization is much larger than the one driven by the usual ponderomotive force. Ionization current generated by different laser pulses and gases is also studied numerically. Based on the numerical results we explain the scaling laws for THz emission observed in the recent experiments performed by Xie [Phys. Rev. Lett. 96, 075005 (2006)]. We also study the effective parameter region for the carrier envelop phase measurement by the use of THz generation.

Theoretical analysis and simulations of strong terahertz radiation from the interaction of ultrashort laser pulses with gases.

PubMed

Chen, Min; Pukhov, Alexander; Peng, Xiao-Yu; Willi, Oswald

2008-10-01

Terahertz (THz) radiation from the interaction of ultrashort laser pulses with gases is studied both by theoretical analysis and particle-in-cell (PIC) simulations. A one-dimensional THz generation model based on the transient ionization electric current mechanism is given, which explains the results of one-dimensional PIC simulations. At the same time the relation between the final THz field and the initial transient ionization current is shown. One- and two-dimensional simulations show that for the THz generation the contribution of the electric current due to ionization is much larger than the one driven by the usual ponderomotive force. Ionization current generated by different laser pulses and gases is also studied numerically. Based on the numerical results we explain the scaling laws for THz emission observed in the recent experiments performed by Xie et al. [Phys. Rev. Lett. 96, 075005 (2006)]. We also study the effective parameter region for the carrier envelop phase measurement by the use of THz generation.

Terahertz wave manipulation based on multi-bit coding artificial electromagnetic surfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Jiu-Sheng; Zhao, Ze-Jiang; Yao, Jian-Quan

2018-05-01

A polarization insensitive multi-bit coding artificial electromagnetic surface is proposed for terahertz wave manipulation. The coding artificial electromagnetic surfaces composed of four-arrow-shaped particles with certain coding sequences can generate multi-bit coding in the terahertz frequencies and manipulate the reflected terahertz waves to the numerous directions by using of different coding distributions. Furthermore, we demonstrate that our coding artificial electromagnetic surfaces have strong abilities to reduce the radar cross section with polarization insensitive for TE and TM incident terahertz waves as well as linear-polarized and circular-polarized terahertz waves. This work offers an effectively strategy to realize more powerful manipulation of terahertz wave.

Numerical analysis of THz radiation wave using upper hybrid wave wiggler

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Malik, Pratibha; Sharma, Suresh C.; Panwar, Jyotsna; Sharma, Rinku

2018-03-01

A theory for upper hybrid wave induced by relativistic electron beam in magnetized plasma emits tuneable and coherent terahertz radiation. The nonlinear interaction with REB is used to generate terahertz radiation. The enhancement in the amplitude of THz wave is also observed when pre-bunched REB is used. The ponderomotive force applied on beam electrons due to radiation wave and upper wave wiggler modifies the dispersion relation. By solving the dispersion relation, we have derived the growth rate of the radiation wave. Numerical studies indicate that by increasing the beam energy the growth rate of the radiation wave decreases, while it increases with wiggler frequency. Besides this, the growth rate of the radiation wave increases with beam density and decreases with radiation frequency and static magnetic field.

Integrated Arrays on Silicon at Terahertz Frequencies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chattopadhayay, Goutam; Lee, Choonsup; Jung, Cecil; Lin, Robert; Peralta, Alessandro; Mehdi, Imran; Llombert, Nuria; Thomas, Bertrand

2011-01-01

In this paper we explore various receiver font-end and antenna architecture for use in integrated arrays at terahertz frequencies. Development of wafer-level integrated terahertz receiver front-end by using advanced semiconductor fabrication technologies and use of novel integrated antennas with silicon micromachining are reported. We report novel stacking of micromachined silicon wafers which allows for the 3-dimensional integration of various terahertz receiver components in extremely small packages which easily leads to the development of 2- dimensioanl multi-pixel receiver front-ends in the terahertz frequency range. We also report an integrated micro-lens antenna that goes with the silicon micro-machined front-end. The micro-lens antenna is fed by a waveguide that excites a silicon lens antenna through a leaky-wave or electromagnetic band gap (EBG) resonant cavity. We utilized advanced semiconductor nanofabrication techniques to design, fabricate, and demonstrate a super-compact, low-mass submillimeter-wave heterodyne frontend. When the micro-lens antenna is integrated with the receiver front-end we will be able to assemble integrated heterodyne array receivers for various applications such as multi-pixel high resolution spectrometer and imaging radar at terahertz frequencies.

Terahertz transmission properties of silicon wafers using continuous-wave terahertz spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Chihoon; Ahn, Jae Sung; Ji, Taeksoo; Eom, Joo Beom

2017-04-01

We present the spectral properties of Si wafers using continuous-wave terahertz (CW-THz) spectroscopy. By using a tunable laser source and a fixed distributed-feedback laser diode (DFB-LD), a stably tunable beat source for CW-THz spectroscopy system can be implemented. THz radiation is generated in the frequency range of 100 GHz-800 GHz by photomixing in a photoconductive antenna. We also measured CW-THz waveforms by changing the beat frequency and confirmed repeatability through repeated measurement. We calculated the peaks of the THz frequency by taking fast Fourier transforms (FFTs) of measured THz waveforms. The feasibility of CW-THz spectroscopy is demonstrated by the THz spectra of Si wafers with different resistivities, mobilities, and carrier concentrations. The results show that Si wafers with a lower resistivity absorb more THz waves. Thus, we expect our CW-THz system to have the advantage of being able to perform fast non-destructive analysis.

High-Q lattice mode matched structural resonances in terahertz metasurfaces

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

Xu, Ningning; Zhang, Weili, E-mail: weili.zhang@okstate.edu; Singh, Ranjan, E-mail: ranjans@ntu.edu.sg

2016-07-11

The quality (Q) factor of metamaterial resonances is limited by the radiative and non-radiative losses. At terahertz frequencies, the dominant loss channel is radiative in nature since the non-radiative losses are low due to high conductivity of metals. Radiative losses could be suppressed by engineering the meta-atom structure. However, such suppression usually occurs at the fundamental resonance mode which is typically a closed mode resonance such as an inductive-capacitive resonance or a Fano resonance. Here, we report an order of magnitude enhancement in Q factor of all the structural eigenresonances of a split-ring resonator fueled by the lattice mode matching.more » We match the fundamental order diffractive mode to each of the odd and even eigenresonances, thus leading to a tremendous line-narrowing of all the resonances. Such precise tailoring and control of the structural resonances in a metasurface lattice could have potential applications in low-loss devices, sensing, and design of high-Q metamaterial cavities.« less

Photonics and terahertz technologies: part 2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Romaniuk, Ryszard S.

2011-10-01

This digest paper debates basic features of the terahertz band of frequencies and compares it to the classical photonics. There are presented fundamental characteristics of the basic terahertz system consisting of a THz source, propagation media, transmission lines, THz signal processing, and detectors. Such a system finds research application, but also practical in two main areas: terahertz imaging - transmission and reflective, and as a close range THz radar, but also as sensory systems mainly for molecular sensing. There were launched in this country a few THz research projects concerning the THz sources, detectors and their applications. Among these projects there is an infrastructural one called FOTEH, opened at the WUT. The details of this project are debated and the consequences of its realization in this country. The first part of the paper is an introduction debating THz band and comparing it with the photonics one. The second part presents the assumptions of the infrastructural FOTEH project on Photonics and Terahertz Technologies. The project is expected to have impact on the development of photonics and relate fields in Poland.

Conversion of Radio-Frequency Pulses to Continuous-Wave Sinusoids by Fast Switching and Narrowband Filtering

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-09-01

Switching and Narrowband Filtering by Gregory J Mazzaro, Andrew J Sherbondy, Kenneth I Ranney, and Kelly D Sherbondy...Switching and Narrowband Filtering by Gregory J Mazzaro, Andrew J Sherbondy, Kenneth I Ranney, and Kelly D Sherbondy Sensors and Electron Devices...08/2016 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE Conversion of Radio-Frequency Pulses to Continuous-Wave Sinusoids by Fast Switching and Narrowband Filtering 5a

Photoinduced Nonlinear Mixing of Terahertz Dipole Resonances in Graphene Metadevices.

PubMed

In, Chihun; Kim, Hyeon-Don; Min, Bumki; Choi, Hyunyong

2016-02-17

The first experimental demonstration of nonlinear terahertz difference-frequency generation in a hybrid graphene metadevice is reported. Decades of research have revealed that terahertz-wave generation is impossible in single-layer graphene. This limitation is overcome and nonlinear terahertz generation by ultra-short optical pulse injection is demonstrated. This device is an essential step toward atomically thin, nonlinear terahertz optoelectronic components. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Terahertz generation via laser coupling to anharmonic carbon nanotube array

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sharma, Soni; Vijay, A.

2018-02-01

A scheme of terahertz radiation generation employing a matrix of anharmonic carbon nanotubes (CNTs) embedded in silica is proposed. The matrix is irradiated by two collinear laser beams that induce large excursions on CNT electrons and exert a nonlinear force at the beat frequency ω = ω1-ω2. The force derives a nonlinear current producing THz radiation. The THz field is resonantly enhanced at the plasmon resource, ω = ω p ( 1 + β ) / √{ 2 } , where ωp is the plasma frequency and β is a characteristic parameter. Collisions are a limiting factor, suppressing the plasmon resonance. For typical values of plasma parameters, we obtain power conversion efficiency of the order of 10-6.

The importance of scattering, surface potential, and vanguard counter-potential in terahertz emission from gallium arsenide

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cortie, D. L.; Lewis, R. A.

2012-06-01

It is well established that under excitation by short (<1 ps), above-band-gap optical pulses, semiconductor surfaces may emit terahertz-frequency electromagnetic radiation via photocarrier diffusion (the dominant mechanism in InAs) or photocarrier drift (dominant in GaAs). Our three-dimensional ensemble Monte Carlo simulations allow multiple physical parameters to vary over wide ranges and provide unique direct insight into the factors controlling terahertz emission. We find for GaAs (in contrast to InAs), scattering and the surface potential are key factors. We further delineate in GaAs (as in InAs) the role of a vanguard counter-potential. The effects of varying dielectric constant, band-gap, and effective mass are similar in both emitter types.

Subwavelength focusing of terahertz waves in silicon hyperbolic metamaterials.

PubMed

Kannegulla, Akash; Cheng, Li-Jing

2016-08-01

We theoretically demonstrate the subwavelength focusing of terahertz (THz) waves in a hyperbolic metamaterial (HMM) based on a two-dimensional subwavelength silicon pillar array microstructure. The silicon microstructure with a doping concentration of at least 10¹⁷  cm^-3 offers a hyperbolic dispersion at terahertz frequency range and promises the focusing of terahertz Gaussian beams. The results agree with the simulation based on effective medium theory. The focusing effect can be controlled by the doping concentration, which determines the real part of the out-of-plane permittivity and, therefore, the refraction angles in HMM. The focusing property in the HMM structure allows the propagation of terahertz wave through a subwavelength aperture. The silicon-based HMM structure can be realized using microfabrication technologies and has the potential to advance terahertz imaging with subwavelength resolution.

Compact terahertz spectrometer based on disordered rough surfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Tao; Jiang, Bing; Ge, Jia-cheng; Zhu, Yong-yuan; Li, Xing-ao; Huang, Wei

2018-01-01

In this paper, a compact spectrometer based on disordered rough surfaces for operation in the terahertz band is presented. The proposed spectrometer consists of three components, which are used for dispersion, modulation and detection respectively. The disordered rough surfaces, which are acted as the dispersion component, are modulated by the modulation component. Different scattering intensities are captured by the detection component with different extent of modulation. With a calibration measurement process, one can reconstruct the spectra of the probe terahertz beam by solving a system of simultaneous linear equations. A Tikhonov regularization approach has been implemented to improve the accuracy of the spectral reconstruction. The reported broadband, compact, high-resolution terahertz spectrometer is well suited for portable terahertz spectroscopy applications.

Electrically tunable superconducting terahertz metamaterial with low insertion loss and high switchable ratios

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

Li, Chun; Zhang, Caihong, E-mail: chzhang@nju.edu.cn; Hu, Guoliang

2016-07-11

With the emergence and development of artificially structured electromagnetic materials, active terahertz (THz) metamaterial devices have attracted significant attention in recent years. Tunability of transmission is desirable for many applications. For example, short-range wireless THz communications and ultrafast THz interconnects require switches and modulators. However, the tunable range of transmission amplitude of existing THz metamaterial devices is not satisfactory. In this article, we experimentally demonstrate an electrically tunable superconducting niobium nitride metamaterial device and employ a hybrid coupling model to analyze its optical transmission characteristics. The maximum transmission coefficient at 0.507 THz is 0.98 and decreases to 0.19 when themore » applied voltage increases to 0.9 V. A relative transmittance change of 80.6% is observed, making this device an efficient narrowband THz switch. Additionally, the frequency of the peak is red shifted from 0.507 to 0.425 THz, which means that the device can be used to select the frequency. This study offers an alternative tuning method to existing optical, thermal, magnetic-field, and electric-field tuning, delivering a promising approach for designing active and miniaturized THz devices.« less

Electronic structure descriptor for the discovery of narrow-band red-emitting phosphors

DOE PAGES

Wang, Zhenbin; Chu, Iek -Heng; Zhou, Fei; ...

2016-05-09

Narrow-band red-emitting phosphors are a critical component of phosphor-converted light-emitting diodes for highly efficient illumination-grade lighting. In this work, we report the discovery of a quantitative descriptor for narrow-band Eu 2+-activated emission identified through a comparison of the electronic structures of known narrow-band and broad-band phosphors. We find that a narrow emission bandwidth is characterized by a large splitting of more than 0.1 eV between the two highest Eu 2+ 4 f 7 bands. By incorporating this descriptor in a high-throughput first-principles screening of 2259 nitride compounds, we identify five promising new nitride hosts for Eu 2+-activated red-emitting phosphors thatmore » are predicted to exhibit good chemical stability, thermal quenching resistance, and quantum efficiency, as well as narrow-band emission. Lastly, our findings provide important insights into the emission characteristics of rare-earth activators in phosphor hosts and a general strategy to the discovery of phosphors with a desired emission peak and bandwidth.« less

Electronic structure descriptor for the discovery of narrow-band red-emitting phosphors

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

Wang, Zhenbin; Chu, Iek -Heng; Zhou, Fei

Narrow-band red-emitting phosphors are a critical component of phosphor-converted light-emitting diodes for highly efficient illumination-grade lighting. In this work, we report the discovery of a quantitative descriptor for narrow-band Eu 2+-activated emission identified through a comparison of the electronic structures of known narrow-band and broad-band phosphors. We find that a narrow emission bandwidth is characterized by a large splitting of more than 0.1 eV between the two highest Eu 2+ 4 f 7 bands. By incorporating this descriptor in a high-throughput first-principles screening of 2259 nitride compounds, we identify five promising new nitride hosts for Eu 2+-activated red-emitting phosphors thatmore » are predicted to exhibit good chemical stability, thermal quenching resistance, and quantum efficiency, as well as narrow-band emission. Lastly, our findings provide important insights into the emission characteristics of rare-earth activators in phosphor hosts and a general strategy to the discovery of phosphors with a desired emission peak and bandwidth.« less

Narrow-Band Applications of Communications Satellites.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cowlan, Bert; Horowitz, Andrew

This paper attempts to describe the advantages of "narrow-band" applications of communications satellites for education. It begins by discussing the general controversy surrounding the use of satellites in education, by placing the concern within the larger context of the general debate over the uses of new technologies in education, and by…

Elastomeric silicone substrates for terahertz fishnet metamaterials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khodasevych, I. E.; Shah, C. M.; Sriram, S.; Bhaskaran, M.; Withayachumnankul, W.; Ung, B. S. Y.; Lin, H.; Rowe, W. S. T.; Abbott, D.; Mitchell, A.

2012-02-01

In this work, we characterize the electromagnetic properties of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and use this as a free-standing substrate for the realization of flexible fishnet metamaterials at terahertz frequencies. Across the 0.2-2.5 THz band, the refractive index and absorption coefficient of PDMS are estimated as 1.55 and 0-22 cm-1, respectively. Electromagnetic modeling, multi-layer flexible electronics microfabrication, and terahertz time-domain spectroscopy are used in the design, fabrication, and characterization of the metamaterials, respectively. The properties of PDMS add a degree of freedom to terahertz metamaterials, with the potential for tuning by elastic deformation or integrated microfluidics.

Plasmon enhanced terahertz emission from single layer graphene.

PubMed

Bahk, Young-Mi; Ramakrishnan, Gopakumar; Choi, Jongho; Song, Hyelynn; Choi, Geunchang; Kim, Yong Hyup; Ahn, Kwang Jun; Kim, Dai-Sik; Planken, Paul C M

2014-09-23

We show that surface plasmons, excited with femtosecond laser pulses on continuous or discontinuous gold substrates, strongly enhance the generation and emission of ultrashort, broadband terahertz pulses from single layer graphene. Without surface plasmon excitation, for graphene on glass, 'nonresonant laser-pulse-induced photon drag currents' appear to be responsible for the relatively weak emission of both s- and p-polarized terahertz pulses. For graphene on a discontinuous layer of gold, only the emission of the p-polarized terahertz electric field is enhanced, whereas the s-polarized component remains largely unaffected, suggesting the presence of an additional terahertz generation mechanism. We argue that in the latter case, 'surface-plasmon-enhanced optical rectification', made possible by the lack of inversion symmetry at the graphene on gold surface, is responsible for the strongly enhanced emission. The enhancement occurs because the electric field of surface plasmons is localized and enhanced where the graphene is located: at the surface of the metal. We believe that our results point the way to small, thin, and more efficient terahertz photonic devices.

Terahertz emission driven by two-color laser pulses at various frequency ratios

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, W.-M.; Sheng, Z.-M.; Li, Y.-T.; Zhang, Y.; Zhang, J.

2017-08-01

We present a simulation study of terahertz radiation from a gas driven by two-color laser pulses in a broad range of frequency ratios ω1/ω0 . Our particle-in-cell simulation results show that there are three series with ω1/ω0=2 n , n +1 /2 , n ±1 /3 (n is a positive integer) for high-efficiency and stable radiation generation. The radiation strength basically decreases with the increasing ω1 and scales linearly with the laser wavelength. These rules are broken when ω1/ω0<1 and much stronger radiation may be generated at any ω1/ω0 . These results can be explained with a model based on gas ionization by two linear-superposition laser fields, rather than a multiwave mixing model.

Application of narrow-band television to industrial and commercial communications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Embrey, B. C., Jr.; Southworth, G. R.

1974-01-01

The development of narrow-band systems for use in space systems is presented. Applications of the technology to future spacecraft requirements are discussed along with narrow-band television's influence in stimulating development within the industry. The transferral of the technology into industrial and commercial communications is described. Major areas included are: (1) medicine; (2) education; (3) remote sensing for traffic control; and (5) weather observation. Applications in data processing, image enhancement, and information retrieval are provided by the combination of the TV camera and the computer.

Large tuning of narrow-beam terahertz plasmonic lasers operating at 78 K

DOE PAGES

Wu, Chongzhao; Jin, Yuan; Reno, John L.; ...

2016-12-19

A new tuning mechanism is demonstrated for single-mode metal-clad plasmonic lasers, in which the refractive-index of the laser’s surrounding medium affects the resonant-cavity mode in the same vein as the refractive-index of gain medium inside the cavity. Reversible, continuous, and mode-hop-free tuning of ~57 GHz is realized for single-mode narrow-beam terahertz plasmonic quantum-cascade lasers (QCLs), which is demonstrated at a much more practical temperature of 78 K. The tuning is based on post-process deposition/etching of a dielectric (silicon-dioxide) on a QCL chip that has already been soldered and wire-bonded onto a copper mount. This is a considerably larger tuning rangemore » compared to previously reported results for terahertz QCLs with directional far-field radiation patterns. The key enabling mechanism for tuning is a recently developed antenna-feedback scheme for plasmonic lasers, which leads to the generation of hybrid surface-plasmon-polaritons propagating outside the cavity of the laser with a large spatial extent. The effect of dielectric deposition on QCL’s characteristics is investigated in detail including that on maximum operating temperature, peak output power, and far-field radiation patterns. Single-lobed beam with low divergence (<7°) is maintained through the tuning range. The antenna-feedback scheme is ideally suited for modulation of plasmonic lasers and their sensing applications due to the sensitive dependence of spectral and radiative properties of the laser on its surrounding medium.« less

Excimer laser therapy and narrowband ultraviolet B therapy for exfoliative cheilitis.

PubMed

Bhatia, Bhavnit K; Bahr, Brooks A; Murase, Jenny E

2015-06-01

Exfoliative cheilitis is a condition of unknown etiology characterized by hyperkeratosis and scaling of vermilion epithelium with cyclic desquamation. It remains largely refractory to treatment, including corticosteroid therapy, antibiotics, antifungals, and immunosuppressants. We sought to evaluate the safety and efficacy of excimer laser therapy and narrowband ultraviolet B therapy in female patients with refractory exfoliative cheilitis. We reviewed the medical records of two female patients who had been treated unsuccessfully for exfoliative cheilitis. We implemented excimer laser therapy, followed by hand-held narrowband UVB treatments for maintenance therapy, and followed them for clinical improvement and adverse effects. Both patients experienced significant clinical improvement with minimal adverse effects with excimer laser therapy 600-700 mJ/cm 2 twice weekly for several months. The most common adverse effects were bleeding and burning, which occurred at higher doses. The hand-held narrowband UVB unit was also an effective maintenance tool. Limitations include small sample size and lack of standardization of starting dose and dose increments. Excimer laser therapy is a well-tolerated and effective treatment for refractory exfoliative cheilitis with twice weekly laser treatments of up to 700 mJ/cm 2 . Transitioning to the hand-held narrowband UVB device was also an effective maintenance strategy.

Excitonic terahertz photoconductivity in intrinsic semiconductor nanowires.

PubMed

Yan, Jie-Yun

2018-06-13

Excitonic terahertz photoconductivity in intrinsic semiconductor nanowires is studied. Based on the excitonic theory, the numerical method to calculate the photoconductivity spectrum in the nanowires is developed, which can simulate optical pump terahertz-probe spectroscopy measurements on real nanowires and thereby calculate the typical photoconductivity spectrum. With the help of the energetic structure deduced from the calculated linear absorption spectrum, the numerically observed shift of the resonant peak in the photoconductivity spectrum is found to result from the dominant exciton transition between excited or continuum states to the ground state, and the quantitative analysis is in good agreement with the quantum plasmon model. Besides, the dependence of the photoconductivity on the polarization of the terahertz field is also discussed. The numerical method and supporting theoretical analysis provide a new tool for experimentalists to understand the terahertz photoconductivity in intrinsic semiconductor nanowires at low temperatures or for nanowires subjected to below bandgap photoexcitation, where excitonic effects dominate.

Excitonic terahertz photoconductivity in intrinsic semiconductor nanowires

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yan, Jie-Yun

2018-06-01

Excitonic terahertz photoconductivity in intrinsic semiconductor nanowires is studied. Based on the excitonic theory, the numerical method to calculate the photoconductivity spectrum in the nanowires is developed, which can simulate optical pump terahertz-probe spectroscopy measurements on real nanowires and thereby calculate the typical photoconductivity spectrum. With the help of the energetic structure deduced from the calculated linear absorption spectrum, the numerically observed shift of the resonant peak in the photoconductivity spectrum is found to result from the dominant exciton transition between excited or continuum states to the ground state, and the quantitative analysis is in good agreement with the quantum plasmon model. Besides, the dependence of the photoconductivity on the polarization of the terahertz field is also discussed. The numerical method and supporting theoretical analysis provide a new tool for experimentalists to understand the terahertz photoconductivity in intrinsic semiconductor nanowires at low temperatures or for nanowires subjected to below bandgap photoexcitation, where excitonic effects dominate.

[Development of Terahertz Imaging Technology in the Assessment of Burn Injuries].

PubMed

Zhu, Xinjian; He, Xuan; Wang, Pin; Gao, Dandan; Qiu, Yan; He, Qinghua; Wu, Baoming

2016-02-01

Terahertz waves have unique properties and advantages, which makes it gain increasing attention and applications in the biomedical field. Burns is a common clinical trauma. Since the water-sensitive and non-destructive characteristics of terahertz, terahertz imaging techniques can be used to detect burns. So far, terahertz imaging technology in the assessment of burn injuries has been developed from ex vivo to in vivo, and high-resolution images can be obtained through the gauzes and plasters. In this paper, we mainly introduces the application of terahertz imaging technology and development in the assessment of burn injuries.

Terahertz Analysis of Quinacridone Pigments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Squires, A. D.; Kelly, M.; Lewis, R. A.

2017-03-01

We present terahertz spectroscopy and analysis of two commercially available quinacridone pigments in the 0.5-4.5 THz range. Our results show a clear distinction between quinacridone red and magenta pigments. We reveal four definite absorptions in the terahertz regime common to both pigments, but offset between the pigments by ˜0.2 THz. The lowest-energy line in each pigment is observed to increase in frequency by ˜0.1 THz as the temperature is reduced from 300 to 12 K.

Fundamental Materials Studies for Advanced High Power Microwave and Terahertz Vacuum Electronic Radiation Sources

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-12-10

AFRL-OSR-VA-TR-2014-0359 Fundamental Materials Studies for Advanced High Power Microwave and Terahertz John Booske UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN SYSTEM...12-2014 Final Technical Performance Report October 1, 2011 - September 30, 2014 Fundamental Materials Studies for Advanced High Power Microwave and...emission-barrier scandate cathodes and identify related, alternative cathode materials systems for advanced vacuum electronic cathodes for high power THz

Porosity dependence of terahertz emission of porous silicon investigated using reflection geometry terahertz time-domain spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mabilangan, Arvin I.; Lopez, Lorenzo P.; Faustino, Maria Angela B.; Muldera, Joselito E.; Cabello, Neil Irvin F.; Estacio, Elmer S.; Salvador, Arnel A.; Somintac, Armando S.

2016-12-01

Porosity dependent terahertz emission of porous silicon (PSi) was studied. The PSi samples were fabricated via electrochemical etching of boron-doped (100) silicon in a solution containing 48% hydrofluoric acid, deionized water and absolute ethanol in a 1:3:4 volumetric ratio. The porosity was controlled by varying the supplied anodic current for each sample. The samples were then optically characterized via normal incidence reflectance spectroscopy to obtain values for their respective refractive indices and porosities. Absorbance of each sample was also computed using the data from its respective reflectance spectrum. Terahertz emission of each sample was acquired through terahertz - time domain spectroscopy. A decreasing trend in the THz signal power was observed as the porosity of each PSi was increased. This was caused by the decrease in the absorption strength as the silicon crystallite size in the PSi was minimized.

Terahertz Imaging of Three-Dimensional Dehydrated Breast Cancer Tumors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bowman, Tyler; Wu, Yuhao; Gauch, John; Campbell, Lucas K.; El-Shenawee, Magda

2017-06-01

This work presents the application of terahertz imaging to three-dimensional formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded human breast cancer tumors. The results demonstrate the capability of terahertz for in-depth scanning to produce cross section images without the need to slice the tumor. Samples of tumors excised from women diagnosed with infiltrating ductal carcinoma and lobular carcinoma are investigated using a pulsed terahertz time domain imaging system. A time of flight estimation is used to obtain vertical and horizontal cross section images of tumor tissues embedded in paraffin block. Strong agreement is shown comparing the terahertz images obtained by electronically scanning the tumor in-depth in comparison with histopathology images. The detection of cancer tissue inside the block is found to be accurate to depths over 1 mm. Image processing techniques are applied to provide improved contrast and automation of the obtained terahertz images. In particular, unsharp masking and edge detection methods are found to be most effective for three-dimensional block imaging.

Terahertz atmospheric attenuation and continuum effects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Slocum, David M.; Goyette, Thomas M.; Slingerland, Elizabeth J.; Giles, Robert H.; Nixon, William E.

2013-05-01

Remote sensing over long path lengths has become of greater interest in the terahertz frequency region. Applications such as pollution monitoring and detection of energetic chemicals are of particular interest. Although there has been much attention to atmospheric effects over narrow frequency windows, accurate measurements across a wide spectrum is lacking. The water vapor continuum absorption spectrum was investigated using Fourier Transform Spectroscopy. The continuum effect gives rise to an excess absorption that is unaccounted for in just a resonant line spectrum simulation. The transmission of broadband terahertz radiation from 0.300THz - 1.5THz through air with varying relative humidity levels was recorded for multiple path lengths. From these data, the absorption coefficient as a function of frequency was determined and compared with model calculations. The intensity and location of the strong absorption lines were in good agreement with spectral databases such as the 2008 HITRAN database and the JPL database. However, a noticeable continuum effect was observed particularly in the atmospheric transmission windows. A small discrepancy still remained even after accounting for continuum absorption using the best available data from the literature. This discrepancy, when projected over a one kilometer path length, typical of distances used in remote sensing, can cause a 30dB difference between calculated and observed attenuation. From the experimental and resonant line simulation spectra the air-broadening continuum parameter was calculated and compared with values available in the literature.

Study on spectral features of terahertz wave propagating in the air

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kang, Shengwu

2018-03-01

Now, Terahertz technology has been widely used in many fields, which is mainly related to imaging detection. While the frequency range of the terahertz-wave is located between microwave and visible light, whether the existing visible light principle is applicable to terahertz-wave should be studied again. Through experiment, we measure the terahertz-wave field amplitude distribution on the receiving plane perpendicular to the direction of propagation in the air and picture out the energy distribution curve; derive an energy decay formula of terahertz wave based on the results; design a terahertz wavelength apparatus using the F-P interferometer theory; test the wavelength between 1 and 3 THz from the SIFIR-50THz laser of American Corehent company; finally analyze the related factors affecting the measurement precision including the beam incident angle, mechanical vibration, temperature fluctuation and the refractive index fluctuation.

High Sensitivity Terahertz Detection through Large-Area Plasmonic Nano-Antenna Arrays.

PubMed

Yardimci, Nezih Tolga; Jarrahi, Mona

2017-02-16

Plasmonic photoconductive antennas have great promise for increasing responsivity and detection sensitivity of conventional photoconductive detectors in time-domain terahertz imaging and spectroscopy systems. However, operation bandwidth of previously demonstrated plasmonic photoconductive antennas has been limited by bandwidth constraints of their antennas and photoconductor parasitics. Here, we present a powerful technique for realizing broadband terahertz detectors through large-area plasmonic photoconductive nano-antenna arrays. A key novelty that makes the presented terahertz detector superior to the state-of-the art is a specific large-area device geometry that offers a strong interaction between the incident terahertz beam and optical pump at the nanoscale, while maintaining a broad operation bandwidth. The large device active area allows robust operation against optical and terahertz beam misalignments. We demonstrate broadband terahertz detection with signal-to-noise ratio levels as high as 107 dB.

High Sensitivity Terahertz Detection through Large-Area Plasmonic Nano-Antenna Arrays

PubMed Central

Yardimci, Nezih Tolga; Jarrahi, Mona

2017-01-01

Plasmonic photoconductive antennas have great promise for increasing responsivity and detection sensitivity of conventional photoconductive detectors in time-domain terahertz imaging and spectroscopy systems. However, operation bandwidth of previously demonstrated plasmonic photoconductive antennas has been limited by bandwidth constraints of their antennas and photoconductor parasitics. Here, we present a powerful technique for realizing broadband terahertz detectors through large-area plasmonic photoconductive nano-antenna arrays. A key novelty that makes the presented terahertz detector superior to the state-of-the art is a specific large-area device geometry that offers a strong interaction between the incident terahertz beam and optical pump at the nanoscale, while maintaining a broad operation bandwidth. The large device active area allows robust operation against optical and terahertz beam misalignments. We demonstrate broadband terahertz detection with signal-to-noise ratio levels as high as 107 dB. PMID:28205615

Optically tuned terahertz modulator based on annealed multilayer MoS2.

PubMed

Cao, Yapeng; Gan, Sheng; Geng, Zhaoxin; Liu, Jian; Yang, Yuping; Bao, Qiaoling; Chen, Hongda

2016-03-08

Controlling the propagation properties of terahertz waves is very important in terahertz technologies applied in high-speed communication. Therefore a new-type optically tuned terahertz modulator based on multilayer-MoS2 and silicon is experimentally demonstrated. The terahertz transmission could be significantly modulated by changing the power of the pumping laser. With an annealing treatment as a p-doping method, MoS2 on silicon demonstrates a triple enhancement of terahertz modulation depth compared with the bare silicon. This MoS2-based device even exhibited much higher modulation efficiency than the graphene-based device. We also analyzed the mechanism of the modulation enhancement originated from annealed MoS2, and found that it is different from that of graphene-based device. The unique optical modulating properties of the device exhibit tremendous promise for applications in terahertz switch.

Terahertz circular dichroism spectroscopy of biomolecules

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Jing; Galan, Jhenny; Ramian, Gerald; Savvidis, Pavlos; Scopatz, Anthony; Birge, Robert R.; Allen, S. James; Plaxco, Kevin

2004-02-01

Biopolymers such as proteins, DNA and RNA fold into large, macromolecular chiral structures. As charged macromolecules, they absorb strongly in the terahertz due to large-scale collective vibrational modes; as chiral objects, this absorption should be coupled with significant circular dichroism. Terahertz circular dichroism (TCD) is potentially important as a biospecific sensor, unobscured by spectral features related to abiological material. We have constructed atomistic simulations and elastic continuum models of TCD. These models estimate the magnitude of the TCD and the relation between TCD spectroscopic signatures (zero crossings) and the structure, charge distribution and mechanical properties of biomaterials. A broad band TCD spectrometer based on a polarizing interferometer is developed to explore TCD in biomolecules in aqueous solution. Preliminary results on TCD in lysozyme in water at several terahertz frequencies is presented.

Broadband, Spectrally Flat, Graphene-based Terahertz Modulators.

PubMed

Shi, Fenghua; Chen, Yihang; Han, Peng; Tassin, Philippe

2015-12-02

Advances in the efficient manipulation of terahertz waves are crucial for the further development of terahertz technology, promising applications in many diverse areas, such as biotechnology and spectroscopy, to name just a few. Due to its exceptional electronic and optical properties, graphene is a good candidate for terahertz electro-absorption modulators. However, graphene-based modulators demonstrated to date are limited in bandwidth due to Fabry-Perot oscillations in the modulators' substrate. Here, a novel method is demonstrated to design electrically controlled graphene-based modulators that can achieve broadband and spectrally flat modulation of terahertz beams. In our design, a graphene layer is sandwiched between a dielectric and a slightly doped substrate on a metal reflector. It is shown that the spectral dependence of the electric field intensity at the graphene layer can be dramatically modified by optimizing the structural parameters of the device. In this way, the electric field intensity can be spectrally flat and even compensate for the dispersion of the graphene conductivity, resulting in almost invariant absorption in a wide frequency range. Modulation depths up to 76% can be achieved within a fractional operational bandwidth of over 55%. It is expected that our modulator designs will enable the use of terahertz technology in applications requiring broadband operation. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Terahertz radiation generation through the nonlinear interaction of Hermite and Laguerre Gaussian laser beams with collisional plasma: Field profile optimization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Safari, Samaneh; Niknam, Ali Reza; Jahangiri, Fazel; Jazi, Bahram

2018-04-01

The nonlinear interaction of Hermite-Gaussian and Laguerre-Gaussian (LG) laser beams with a collisional inhomogeneous plasma is studied, and the amplitude of the emitted terahertz (THz) electric field is evaluated. The effects of laser beams and plasma parameters, including the beams width, LG modes, the plasma collision frequency, and the amplitude of density ripple on the evolution of THz electric field amplitude, are examined. It is found that the shape of the generated THz radiation pattern can be tuned by the laser parameters. In addition, the optimum values of the effective parameters for achieving the maximum THz electric field amplitude are proposed. It is shown that a significant enhancement up to 4.5% can be obtained in our scheme, which is much greater than the maximum efficiency obtained for laser beams with the same profiles.

Flat Terahertz Reflective Focusing Metasurface with Scanning Ability.

PubMed

Yi, Huan; Qu, Shi-Wei; Chen, Bao-Jie; Bai, Xue; Ng, Kung Bo; Chan, Chi Hou

2017-06-14

The ability to manipulate the propagation properties of electromagnetic waves, e.g., divergence, focusing, holography or deflection, is very significant in terahertz applications. Metasurfaces with flat structures are attractive for achieving such manipulations in terahertz band, as they feature low profile, lightweight, and ease of design and installation. Several types of terahertz reflective or transmitting metasurfaces with focusing function have been implemented recently, but none of them can provide scanning ability with controllable focus. Here, a flat reflective metasurface featuring controllable focal shift is proposed and experimentally demonstrated. Furthermore, the principle of designing a focus scanning reflective metasurface is presented and the focusing characteristics are discussed, including focus scanning along a line parallel or orthogonal to the metasurface with a large bandwidth. These interesting properties indicate that this flat reflective metasurface could play a key role in many terahertz imaging and detection systems.

Carrier dynamics in silicon nanowires studied using optical-pump terahertz-probe spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Beaudoin, Alexandre; Salem, Bassem; Baron, Thierry; Gentile, Pascal; Morris, Denis

2014-03-01

The advance of non-contact measurements involving pulsed terahertz radiation presents great interests for characterizing electrical properties of a large ensemble of nanowires. In this work, N-doped and undoped silicon nanowires (SiNWs) grown by chemical vapour deposition (CVD) on quartz substrate were characterized using optical-pump terahertz probe (OPTP) transmission experiments. Our results show that defects and ionized impurities introduced by N-doping the CVD-grown SiNWs tend to reduce the photoexcited carrier lifetime and degrade their conductivity properties. Capture mechanisms by the surface trap states play a key role on the photocarrier dynamics in theses small diameters' (~100 nm) SiNWs and the doping level is found to alter this dynamics. We propose convincing capture and recombination scenarios that explain our OPTP measurements. Fits of our photoconductivity data curves, from 0.5 to 2 THz, using a Drude-plasmon conductivity model allow determining photocarrier mobility values of 190 and 70 cm2/V .s, for the undoped and N-doped NWs samples, respectively.

Calculation and Study of Graphene Conductivity Based on Terahertz Spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Feng, Xiaodong; Hu, Min; Zhou, Jun; Liu, Shenggang

2017-07-01

Based on terahertz time-domain spectroscopy system and two-dimensional scanning control system, terahertz transmission and reflection intensity mapping images on a graphene film are obtained, respectively. Then, graphene conductivity mapping images in the frequency range 0.5 to 2.5 THz are acquired according to the calculation formula. The conductivity of graphene at some typical regions is fitted by Drude-Smith formula to quantitatively compare the transmission and reflection measurements. The results show that terahertz reflection spectroscopy has a higher signal-to-noise ratio with less interference of impurities on the back of substrates. The effect of a red laser excitation on the graphene conductivity by terahertz time-domain transmission spectroscopy is also studied. The results show that the graphene conductivity in the excitation region is enhanced while that in the adjacent area is weakened which indicates carriers transport in graphene under laser excitation. This paper can make great contribution to the study on graphene electrical and optical properties in the terahertz regime and help design graphene terahertz devices.

Terahertz Schottky Multiplier Sources

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schlecht, Erich T.

2007-01-01

This viewgraph presentation reviews the multiplier source technologies and the status/Performance of THz multiplier sources. An example of a THz application is imaging radar. The presentation reviews areas of requirements for THz sources: (1) Figures of merit, (i.e., Frequency Terahertz for high resolution Bandwidth of at least 15 GHz for high range resolution Efficiency (i.e., minimize power supply requirements) (2) Output power: (i.e., Milliwatts below 800 GHz, 10s of microwatts above 1 THz, 1-2 microwatts near 2 THz (3) Mechanical--stability, compact, low mass (4) Environmental -- radiation, vibration, thermal. Several sources for 0.3 - 2 THz are reviewed: FIR lasers, quantum cascade lasers (QCL), backward-wave oscillator (BWO), and Multiplier sources. The current state of the art (SoA) is shown as Substrateless Technology. It also shows where the SoA is for devices beyond 1 THz. The presentation concludes by reviewing the options for future development, and 2 technology roadmaps

Terahertz multiheterodyne spectroscopy using laser frequency combs

DOE PAGES

Yang, Yang; Burghoff, David; Hayton, Darren J.; ...

2014-07-01

The terahertz region is of great importance for spectroscopy since many molecules have absorption fingerprints there. Frequency combs based on terahertz quantum cascade lasers feature broadband coverage and high output powers in a compact package, making them an attractive option for broadband spectroscopy. Here, we demonstrate the first multiheterodyne spectroscopy using two terahertz quantum cascade laser combs. Over a spectral range of 250 GHz, we achieve average signal-to-noise ratios of 34 dB using cryogenic detectors and 24 dB using room-temperature detectors, all in just 100 μs. As a proof of principle, we use these combs to measure the broadband transmissionmore » spectrum of etalon samples and show that, with proper signal processing, it is possible to extend the multiheterodyne spectroscopy to quantum cascade laser combs operating in pulsed mode. Here, this greatly expands the range of quantum cascade lasers that could be suitable for these techniques and allows for the creation of completely solid-state terahertz laser spectrometers.« less

Multi-wavelength lenses for terahertz surface wave.

PubMed

Wei, Minggui; Yang, Quanlong; Xu, Quan; Zhang, Xueqian; Li, Yanfeng; Gu, Jianqiang; Han, Jiaguang; Zhang, Weili

2017-10-16

Metasurface-based surface wave (SW) devices working at multi-wavelength has been continuously arousing enormous curiosity recently, especially in the terahertz community. In this work, we propose a multi-layer metasurface structure composed of metallic slit pairs to build terahertz SW devices. The slit pair has a narrow bandwidth and its response frequency can be altered by its geometric parameter, thereby suppressing the frequency crosstalk and reducing the difficulty of design. By elaborately tailoring the distribution of the slit pairs, a series of achromatic SW lenses (SWLs) working at 0.6, 0.75 and 1 THz are experimentally demonstrated by the near field scanning terahertz microscope (NSTM) system. In addition, a wavelength-division-multiplexer (WDM) is further designed and implemented, which is promising in building multiplexed devices for plasmonic circuits. The structure proposed here cannot only couple the terahertz wave from free space to SWs, but also control its propagation. Moreover, our findings demonstrate the great potential to design multi-wavelength plasmonic metasurface devices, which can be extended to microwave and visible frequencies as well.

Terahertz imaging through self-mixing in a quantum cascade laser.

PubMed

Dean, Paul; Lim, Yah Leng; Valavanis, Alex; Kliese, Russell; Nikolić, Milan; Khanna, Suraj P; Lachab, Mohammad; Indjin, Dragan; Ikonić, Zoran; Harrison, Paul; Rakić, Aleksandar D; Linfield, Edmund H; Davies, A Giles

2011-07-01

We demonstrate terahertz (THz) frequency imaging using a single quantum cascade laser (QCL) device for both generation and sensing of THz radiation. Detection is achieved by utilizing the effect of self-mixing in the THz QCL, and, specifically, by monitoring perturbations to the voltage across the QCL, induced by light reflected from an external object back into the laser cavity. Self-mixing imaging offers high sensitivity, a potentially fast response, and a simple, compact optical design, and we show that it can be used to obtain high-resolution reflection images of exemplar structures.

Nonlinear Terahertz Absorption of Graphene Plasmons.

PubMed

Jadidi, Mohammad M; König-Otto, Jacob C; Winnerl, Stephan; Sushkov, Andrei B; Drew, H Dennis; Murphy, Thomas E; Mittendorff, Martin

2016-04-13

Subwavelength graphene structures support localized plasmonic resonances in the terahertz and mid-infrared spectral regimes. The strong field confinement at the resonant frequency is predicted to significantly enhance the light-graphene interaction, which could enable nonlinear optics at low intensity in atomically thin, subwavelength devices. To date, the nonlinear response of graphene plasmons and their energy loss dynamics have not been experimentally studied. We measure and theoretically model the terahertz nonlinear response and energy relaxation dynamics of plasmons in graphene nanoribbons. We employ a terahertz pump-terahertz probe technique at the plasmon frequency and observe a strong saturation of plasmon absorption followed by a 10 ps relaxation time. The observed nonlinearity is enhanced by 2 orders of magnitude compared to unpatterned graphene with no plasmon resonance. We further present a thermal model for the nonlinear plasmonic absorption that supports the experimental results. The model shows that the observed strong linearity is caused by an unexpected red shift of plasmon resonance together with a broadening and weakening of the resonance caused by the transient increase in electron temperature. The model further predicts that even greater resonant enhancement of the nonlinear response can be expected in high-mobility graphene, suggesting that nonlinear graphene plasmonic devices could be promising candidates for nonlinear optical processing.

High harmonic terahertz confocal gyrotron with nonuniform electron beam

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

Fu, Wenjie; Guan, Xiaotong; Yan, Yang

2016-01-15

The harmonic confocal gyrotron with nonuniform electron beam is proposed in this paper in order to develop compact and high power terahertz radiation source. A 0.56 THz third harmonic confocal gyrotron with a dual arc section nonuniform electron beam has been designed and investigated. The studies show that confocal cavity has extremely low mode density, and has great advantage to operate at high harmonic. Nonuniform electron beam is an approach to improve output power and interaction efficiency of confocal gyrotron. A dual arc beam magnetron injection gun for designed confocal gyrotron has been developed and presented in this paper.

A New Method for Suppressing Periodic Narrowband Interference Based on the Chaotic van der Pol Oscillator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lu, Jia; Zhang, Xiaoxing; Xiong, Hao

The chaotic van der Pol oscillator is a powerful tool for detecting defects in electric systems by using online partial discharge (PD) monitoring. This paper focuses on realizing weak PD signal detection in the strong periodic narrowband interference by using high sensitivity to the periodic narrowband interference signals and immunity to white noise and PD signals of chaotic systems. A new approach to removing the periodic narrowband interference by using a van der Pol chaotic oscillator is described by analyzing the motion characteristic of the chaotic oscillator on the basis of the van der Pol equation. Furthermore, the Floquet index for measuring the amplitude of periodic narrowband signals is redefined. The denoising signal processed by the chaotic van der Pol oscillators is further processed by wavelet analysis. Finally, the denoising results verify that the periodic narrowband and white noise interference can be removed efficiently by combining the theory of the chaotic van der Pol oscillator and wavelet analysis.

Compact terahertz wave polarization beam splitter using photonic crystal.

PubMed

Mo, Guo-Qiang; Li, Jiu-Sheng

2016-09-01

Electromagnetic polarization conveys valuable information for signal processing. Manipulation of a terahertz wave polarization state exhibits tremendous potential in developing applications of terahertz science and technology. We propose an approach to efficiently split transverse-electric and transverse-magnetic polarized terahertz waves into different propagation directions over the frequency range from 0.9998 to 1.0007 THz. Both the plane wave expansion method and the finite-difference time-domain method are used to calculate and analyze the transmission characteristics of the proposed device. The present device is very compact and the total size is 1.02  mm×0.99  mm. This polarization beam splitter performance indicates that the structure has a potential application for forthcoming terahertz-wave integrated circuit fields.

Quantitative analyses of tartaric acid based on terahertz time domain spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cao, Binghua; Fan, Mengbao

2010-10-01

Terahertz wave is the electromagnetic spectrum situated between microwave and infrared wave. Quantitative analysis based on terahertz spectroscopy is very important for the application of terahertz techniques. But how to realize it is still under study. L-tartaric acid is widely used as acidulant in beverage, and other food, such as soft drinks, wine, candy, bread and some colloidal sweetmeats. In this paper, terahertz time-domain spectroscopy is applied to quantify the tartaric acid. Two methods are employed to process the terahertz spectra of different samples with different content of tartaric acid. The first one is linear regression combining correlation analysis. The second is partial least square (PLS), in which the absorption spectra in the 0.8-1.4THz region are used to quantify the tartaric acid. To compare the performance of these two principles, the relative error of the two methods is analyzed. For this experiment, the first method does better than the second one. But the first method is suitable for the quantitative analysis of materials which has obvious terahertz absorption peaks, while for material which has no obvious terahertz absorption peaks, the second one is more appropriate.

Synthetic aperture in terahertz in-line digital holography for resolution enhancement.

PubMed

Huang, Haochong; Rong, Lu; Wang, Dayong; Li, Weihua; Deng, Qinghua; Li, Bin; Wang, Yunxin; Zhan, Zhiqiang; Wang, Xuemin; Wu, Weidong

2016-01-20

Terahertz digital holography is a combination of terahertz technology and digital holography. In digital holography, the imaging resolution is the key parameter in determining the detailed quality of a reconstructed wavefront. In this paper, the synthetic aperture method is used in terahertz digital holography and the in-line arrangement is built to perform the detection. The resolved capability of previous terahertz digital holographic systems restricts this technique to meet the requirement of practical detection. In contrast, the experimental resolved power of the present method can reach 125 μm, which is the best resolution of terahertz digital holography to date. Furthermore, the basic detection of a biological specimen is conducted to show the practical application. In all, the results of the proposed method demonstrate the enhancement of experimental imaging resolution and that the amplitude and phase distributions of the fine structure of samples can be reconstructed by using terahertz digital holography.

Terahertz microfluidic sensing using a parallel-plate waveguide sensor.

PubMed

Astley, Victoria; Reichel, Kimberly; Mendis, Rajind; Mittleman, Daniel M

2012-08-30

Refractive index (RI) sensing is a powerful noninvasive and label-free sensing technique for the identification, detection and monitoring of microfluidic samples with a wide range of possible sensor designs such as interferometers and resonators. Most of the existing RI sensing applications focus on biological materials in aqueous solutions in visible and IR frequencies, such as DNA hybridization and genome sequencing. At terahertz frequencies, applications include quality control, monitoring of industrial processes and sensing and detection applications involving nonpolar materials. Several potential designs for refractive index sensors in the terahertz regime exist, including photonic crystal waveguides, asymmetric split-ring resonators, and photonic band gap structures integrated into parallel-plate waveguides. Many of these designs are based on optical resonators such as rings or cavities. The resonant frequencies of these structures are dependent on the refractive index of the material in or around the resonator. By monitoring the shifts in resonant frequency the refractive index of a sample can be accurately measured and this in turn can be used to identify a material, monitor contamination or dilution, etc. The sensor design we use here is based on a simple parallel-plate waveguide. A rectangular groove machined into one face acts as a resonant cavity (Figures 1 and 2). When terahertz radiation is coupled into the waveguide and propagates in the lowest-order transverse-electric (TE1) mode, the result is a single strong resonant feature with a tunable resonant frequency that is dependent on the geometry of the groove. This groove can be filled with nonpolar liquid microfluidic samples which cause a shift in the observed resonant frequency that depends on the amount of liquid in the groove and its refractive index. Our technique has an advantage over other terahertz techniques in its simplicity, both in fabrication and implementation, since the procedure can

Strong polarization-dependent terahertz modulation of aligned Ag nanowires on Si substrate.

PubMed

Lee, Gyuseok; Maeng, Inhee; Kang, Chul; Oh, Myoung-Kyu; Kee, Chul-Sik

2018-05-14

Optically tunable, strong polarization-dependent transmission of terahertz pulses through aligned Ag nanowires on a Si substrate is demonstrated. Terahertz pulses primarily pass through the Ag nanowires and the transmittance is weakly dependent on the angle between the direction of polarization of the terahertz pulse and the direction of nanowire alignment. However, the transmission of a terahertz pulse through optically excited materials strongly depends on the polarization direction. The extinction ratio increases as the power of the pumping laser increases. The enhanced polarization dependency is explained by the redistribution of photocarriers, which accelerates the sintering effect along the direction of alignment of the Ag nanowires. The photocarrier redistribution effect is examined by the enhancement of terahertz emission from the sample. Oblique metal nanowires on Si could be utilized for designing optically tunable terahertz polarization modulators.

Quantized conductance observed during sintering of silver nanoparticles by intense terahertz pulses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takano, Keisuke; Harada, Hirofumi; Yoshimura, Masashi; Nakajima, Makoto

2018-04-01

We show that silver nanoparticles, which are deposited on a terahertz-receiving antenna, can be sintered by intense terahertz pulse irradiation. The conductance of the silver nanoparticles between the antenna electrodes is measured under the terahertz pulse irradiation. The dispersant materials surrounding the nanoparticles are peeled off, and conduction paths are created. We reveal that, during sintering, quantum point contacts are formed, leading to quantized conductance between the electrodes with the conductance quantum, which reflects the formation of atomically thin wires. The terahertz electric pulses are sufficiently intense to activate electromigration, i.e., transfer of kinetic energy from the electrons to the silver atoms. The silver atoms move and atomically thin wires form under the intense terahertz pulse irradiation. These findings may inspire nanoscale structural processing by terahertz pulse irradiation.

Terahertz spectroscopy of liver cirrhosis: investigating the origin of contrast

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sy, Stanley; Huang, Shengyang; Wang, Yi-Xiang J.; Yu, Jun; Ahuja, Anil T.; Zhang, Yuan-ting; Pickwell-MacPherson, Emma

2010-12-01

We have previously demonstrated that terahertz pulsed imaging is able to distinguish between rat tissues from different healthy organs. In this paper we report our measurements of healthy and cirrhotic liver tissues using terahertz reflection spectroscopy. The water content of the fresh tissue samples was also measured in order to investigate the correlations between the terahertz properties, water content, structural changes and cirrhosis. Finally, the samples were fixed in formalin to determine whether water was the sole source of image contrast in this study. We found that the cirrhotic tissue had a higher water content and absorption coefficient than the normal tissue and that even after formalin fixing there were significant differences between the normal and cirrhotic tissues' terahertz properties. Our results show that terahertz pulsed imaging can distinguish between healthy and diseased tissue due to differences in absorption originating from both water content and tissue structure.

Narrow-band filters for the lightning imager

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Piegari, Angela; Di Sarcina, Ilaria; Grilli, Maria Luisa; Menchini, Francesca; Scaglione, Salvatore; Sytchkova, Anna; Zola, Danilo; Cuevas, Leticia P.

2017-11-01

The study of lightning phenomena will be carried out by a dedicated instrument, the lightning imager, that will make use of narrow-band transmission filters for separating the Oxygen emission lines in the clouds, from the background signal. The design, manufacturing and testing of these optical filters will be described here.

Topological-insulator-based terahertz modulator

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

Wang, X. B.; Cheng, L.; Wu, Y.

Three dimensional topological insulators, as a new phase of quantum matters, are characterized by an insulating gap in the bulk and a metallic state on the surface. Particularly, most of the topological insulators have narrow band gaps, and hence have promising applications in the area of terahertz optoelectronics. In this work, we experimentally demonstrate an electronically-tunable terahertz intensity modulator based on Bi 1:5Sb 0:5Te 1:8Se 1:2 single crystal, one of the most insulating topological insulators. A relative frequency-independent modulation depth of ~62% over a wide frequency range from 0.3 to 1.4 THz has been achieved at room temperature, by applyingmore » a bias current of 100 mA. The modulation in the low current regime can be further enhanced at low temperature. We propose that the extraordinarily large modulation is a consequence of thermally-activated carrier absorption in the semiconducting bulk states. Our work provides a new application of topological insulators for terahertz technology.« less

Topological-insulator-based terahertz modulator

DOE PAGES

Wang, X. B.; Cheng, L.; Wu, Y.; ...

2017-10-18

Three dimensional topological insulators, as a new phase of quantum matters, are characterized by an insulating gap in the bulk and a metallic state on the surface. Particularly, most of the topological insulators have narrow band gaps, and hence have promising applications in the area of terahertz optoelectronics. In this work, we experimentally demonstrate an electronically-tunable terahertz intensity modulator based on Bi 1:5Sb 0:5Te 1:8Se 1:2 single crystal, one of the most insulating topological insulators. A relative frequency-independent modulation depth of ~62% over a wide frequency range from 0.3 to 1.4 THz has been achieved at room temperature, by applyingmore » a bias current of 100 mA. The modulation in the low current regime can be further enhanced at low temperature. We propose that the extraordinarily large modulation is a consequence of thermally-activated carrier absorption in the semiconducting bulk states. Our work provides a new application of topological insulators for terahertz technology.« less

Terahertz-driven linear electron acceleration

PubMed Central

Nanni, Emilio A.; Huang, Wenqian R.; Hong, Kyung-Han; Ravi, Koustuban; Fallahi, Arya; Moriena, Gustavo; Dwayne Miller, R. J.; Kärtner, Franz X.

2015-01-01

The cost, size and availability of electron accelerators are dominated by the achievable accelerating gradient. Conventional high-brightness radio-frequency accelerating structures operate with 30–50 MeV m−1 gradients. Electron accelerators driven with optical or infrared sources have demonstrated accelerating gradients orders of magnitude above that achievable with conventional radio-frequency structures. However, laser-driven wakefield accelerators require intense femtosecond sources and direct laser-driven accelerators suffer from low bunch charge, sub-micron tolerances and sub-femtosecond timing requirements due to the short wavelength of operation. Here we demonstrate linear acceleration of electrons with keV energy gain using optically generated terahertz pulses. Terahertz-driven accelerating structures enable high-gradient electron/proton accelerators with simple accelerating structures, high repetition rates and significant charge per bunch. These ultra-compact terahertz accelerators with extremely short electron bunches hold great potential to have a transformative impact for free electron lasers, linear colliders, ultrafast electron diffraction, X-ray science and medical therapy with X-rays and electron beams. PMID:26439410

Terahertz-driven linear electron acceleration

DOE PAGES

Nanni, Emilio A.; Huang, Wenqian R.; Hong, Kyung-Han; ...

2015-10-06

The cost, size and availability of electron accelerators are dominated by the achievable accelerating gradient. Conventional high-brightness radio-frequency accelerating structures operate with 30–50 MeVm -1 gradients. Electron accelerators driven with optical or infrared sources have demonstrated accelerating gradients orders of magnitude above that achievable with conventional radio-frequency structures. However, laser-driven wakefield accelerators require intense femtosecond sources and direct laser-driven accelerators suffer from low bunch charge, sub-micron tolerances and sub-femtosecond timing requirements due to the short wavelength of operation. Here we demonstrate linear acceleration of electrons with keV energy gain using optically generated terahertz pulses. Terahertz-driven accelerating structures enable high-gradient electron/protonmore » accelerators with simple accelerating structures, high repetition rates and significant charge per bunch. As a result, these ultra-compact terahertz accelerators with extremely short electron bunches hold great potential to have a transformative impact for free electron lasers, linear colliders, ultrafast electron diffraction, X-ray science and medical therapy with X-rays and electron beams.« less

Terahertz imaging devices and systems, and related methods, for detection of materials

DOEpatents

Kotter, Dale K.

2016-11-15

Terahertz imaging devices may comprise a focal plane array including a substrate and a plurality of resonance elements. The plurality of resonance elements may comprise a conductive material coupled to the substrate. Each resonance element of the plurality of resonance elements may be configured to resonate and produce an output signal responsive to incident radiation having a frequency between about a 0.1 THz and 4 THz range. A method of detecting a hazardous material may comprise receiving incident radiation by a focal plane array having a plurality of discrete pixels including a resonance element configured to absorb the incident radiation at a resonant frequency in the THz, generating an output signal from each of the discrete pixels, and determining a presence of a hazardous material by interpreting spectral information from the output signal.

Fabrication of photonic amorphous diamonds for terahertz-wave applications

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

Komiyama, Yuichiro; Abe, Hiroyuki; Kamimura, Yasushi

2016-05-09

A recently proposed photonic bandgap material, named “photonic amorphous diamond” (PAD), was fabricated in a terahertz regime, and its terahertz-wave propagation properties were investigated. The PAD structure was fabricated from acrylic resin mixed with alumina powder, using laser lithographic, micro-additive manufacturing technique. After fabrication, the resulting structure was dewaxed and sintered. The formation of a photonic bandgap at around 0.45 THz was demonstrated by terahertz time-domain spectroscopy. Reflecting the disordered nature of the random network structure, diffusive terahertz-wave propagation was observed in the passbands; the scattering mean-free path decreased as the frequency approached the band edge. The mean-free paths evaluated atmore » the band edges were close to the Ioffe-Regel threshold value for wave localization.« less

Telecom meets terahertz

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nikitin, Alexey Y.

2018-01-01

Excitation and gate tuning of terahertz plasmons in dual-layer graphene integrated into on-chip telecom photonic waveguides using infrared lasers has now been demonstrated. This may open the door to atomically thick optoelectronic devices for security, tomography or data processing.

Terahertz emission from ultrafast ionizing air in symmetry-broken laser fields

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Ki-Yong; Glownia, James H.; Taylor, Antoinette J.; Rodriguez, George

2007-04-01

A transient photocurrent model is developed to explain coherent terahertz emission from air irradiated by a symmetry-broken laser field composed of the fundamental and its second harmonic laser pulses. When the total laser field is asymmetric across individual optical cycles, a nonvanishing electron current surge can arise during optical field ionization of air, emitting a terahertz electromagnetic pulse. Terahertz power scalability is also investigated, and with optical pump energy of tens of millijoules per pulse, peak terahertz field strengths in excess of 150 kV/cm are routinely produced.

Terahertz emission from ultrafast ionizing air in symmetry-broken laser fields.

PubMed

Kim, Ki-Yong; Glownia, James H; Taylor, Antoinette J; Rodriguez, George

2007-04-16

A transient photocurrent model is developed to explain coherent terahertz emission from air irradiated by a symmetry-broken laser field composed of the fundamental and its second harmonic laser pulses. When the total laser field is asymmetric across individual optical cycles, a nonvanishing electron current surge can arise during optical field ionization of air, emitting a terahertz electromagnetic pulse. Terahertz power scalability is also investigated, and with optical pump energy of tens of millijoules per pulse, peak terahertz field strengths in excess of 150 kV/cm are routinely produced.

Spectral shifts as a signature of the onset of diffusion of broadband terahertz pulses.

PubMed

Pearce, Jeremy; Jian, Zhongping; Mittleman, Daniel M

2004-12-15

We describe measurements of polarization dynamics as a probe of multiple scattering of photons in a random medium by use of single-cycle terahertz pulses. We measure the degree of polarization and correlate it directly with the single-scattering regime in the time domain. We also measure the evolution of the temporal phase of the radiation and show that the average spectral content depends on the state of polarization. In the case of broadband radiation, this effect can be used to distinguish photons that have been scattered a few times from those that are propagating diffusively.

[The error analysis and experimental verification of laser radar spectrum detection and terahertz time domain spectroscopy].

PubMed

Liu, Wen-Tao; Li, Jing-Wen; Sun, Zhi-Hui

2010-03-01

Terahertz waves (THz, T-ray) lie between far-infrared and microwave in electromagnetic spectrum with frequency from 0.1 to 10 THz. Many chemical agent explosives show characteristic spectral features in the terahertz. Compared with conventional methods of detecting a variety of threats, such as weapons and chemical agent, THz radiation is low frequency and non-ionizing, and does not give rise to safety concerns. The present paper summarizes the latest progress in the application of terahertz time domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) to chemical agent explosives. A kind of device on laser radar detecting and real time spectrum measuring was designed which measures the laser spectrum on the bases of Fourier optics and optical signal processing. Wedge interferometer was used as the beam splitter to wipe off the background light and detect the laser and measure the spectrum. The result indicates that 10 ns laser radar pulse can be detected and many factors affecting experiments are also introduced. The combination of laser radar spectrum detecting, THz-TDS, modern pattern recognition and signal processing technology is the developing trend of remote detection for chemical agent explosives.

Controlled Terahertz Birefringence in Stretched Poly(lactic acid) Films Investigated by Terahertz Time-Domain Spectroscopy and Wide-Angle X-ray Scattering.

PubMed

Iwasaki, Hotsumi; Nakamura, Madoka; Komatsubara, Nozomu; Okano, Makoto; Nakasako, Masayoshi; Sato, Harumi; Watanabe, Shinichi

2017-07-20

We report a correlation between the dielectric property and structure of stretched poly(lactic acid) (PLA) films, revealed by polarization-sensitive terahertz time-domain spectroscopy and two-dimensional (2D) wide-angle X-ray scattering (WAXS). The experiments evidence that the dielectric function of the PLA film becomes more anisotropic with increasing draw ratio (DR). This behavior is explained by a classical Lorentz oscillator model assuming polarization-dependent absorption. The birefringence can be systematically altered from 0 to 0.13 by controlling DR. The combination of terahertz spectroscopy and 2D WAXS measurement reveals a clear correlation between the birefringence in the terahertz frequency domain and the degree of orientation of the PLA molecular chains. These findings imply that the birefringence is a result of the orientation of the PLA chains with anisotropic macromolecular vibration modes. Because of a good controllability of the birefringence, polymer-based materials will provide an attractive materials system for phase retarders in the terahertz frequency range.

Investigation of the Emissivity and Suitability of a Carbon Thin Film for Terahertz Absorbers

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-06-01

Carbonization In order to verify whether the carbon soot coated THz sensor produces sufficient spectral emissivity for IR-based readout, dummy test...ABSTRACT (maximum 200 words) The main goal of this work is to optimize the emissivity of terahertz (THz) thermal sensors by deposition of a carbon thin...film. Previously, these thermal sensors were designed to detect THz radiation utilizing metamaterials in a complicated optical probing scheme. We

Characterization of terahertz waves on foreign materials of composite materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Im, Kwang-Hee; Kim, Sun-Kyu; Chiou, Chien-Ping; Jung, Jong-An

2018-04-01

Carbon-fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP) are widely utilized due to their comparatively high performance in engineering structures. It is well understood that a nondestructive technique would be very beneficial. A new terahertz radiation has been recognized for its importance in technological applications. Recently, T-ray (terahertz ray) advances in technology and instrumentation have provided a probing field on the electromagnetic spectrum. In carbon composites, the penetration characterization of T-ray waves was fundamentally investigated in order to measure the painting thickness. Also, another study dealt with THz scan images of honeycomb sandwich composite panels using a refractive index (n), an absorption coefficient (α), the electrical conductivity of glass fiber embedded epoxy matrix composites, and carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP) skin. For experiments, a method of detecting FRP composites with impact damage is presented, which utilizes aluminum wires intertwined with woven carbon fibers as they are inserted into the surface of the CFRP honeycomb sandwich panels. Intensive characterization of T-ray for the nondestructive evaluation (NDE) of carbon composite reinforced plastics (CFRP) composites is discussed in relation to the E-field influence with CFRP composite laminates.

Industrial Applications of Terahertz Imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zeitler, J. Axel; Shen, Yao-Chun

This chapter gives a concise overview of potential industrial applications for terahertz imaging that have been reported over the past decade with a discussion of the major advantages and limitations of each approach. In the second half of the chapter we discuss in more detail how terahertz imaging can be used to investigate the microstructure of pharmaceutical dosage forms. A particular focus in this context is the nondestructive measurement of the coating thickness of polymer coated tablets, both by means of high resolution offline imaging in research and development as well as for in-line quality control during production.

Simulation and analysis of atmospheric transmission performance in airborne Terahertz communication

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pan, Chengsheng; Shi, Xin; Liu, Chengyang; Wang, Xue; Ding, Yuanming

2018-02-01

For the special meteorological condition of high altitude transmission; first the influence of atmospheric turbulence on the Terahertz wireless communication is analyzed, and the atmospheric constants model with increase in height is given. On this basis, the relationship between the flicker index and the high altitude horizon transmission distance of the Terahertz wave is analyzed by simulation. Then, through the analysis of high altitude path loss and noise, the high altitude wireless link model is built. Finally, the link loss budget is given according to the current Terahertz device parameters, and bit error rate (BER) performance of on-off keyed modulation (OOK) and pulse position modulation (PPM) in four Terahertz frequency bands is compared and analyzed. All these above provided theoretical reference for high-altitude Terahertz wireless communication transmission.

Millimeter-wave and terahertz integrated circuit antennas

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rebeiz, Gabriel M.

1992-01-01

This paper presents a comprehensive review of integrated circuit antennas suitable for millimeter and terahertz applications. A great deal of research was done on integrated circuit antennas in the last decade and many of the problems associated with electrically thick dielectric substrates, such as substrate modes and poor radiation patterns, have been understood and solved. Several new antennas, such as the integrated horn antenna, the dielectric-filled parabola, the Fresnel plate antenna, the dual-slot antenna, and the log-periodic and spiral antennas on extended hemispherical lenses, have resulted in excellent performance at millimeter-wave frequencies, and are covered in detail in this paper. Also, a review of the efficiency definitions used with planar antennas is given in detail in the appendix.

Terahertz spectroscopic investigations of leather in terahertz wave range

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Song, Mei-jing; Li, Jiu-sheng

2012-03-01

Pulsed THz time-domain spectroscopy is a coherent technique, in which both the amplitude and the phase of a THz pulse are measured. Recently, material characterization using THz spectroscopy has been applied to biochemicals, pharmaceuticals, polymers and semiconductors and has given us important information. Moreover, THz imaging has progressed and is expected to be applicable for the identification of narcotics and explosives. The most important and characteristic point of THz spectroscopy is said to be its ability to observe intermolecular vibrations in contrast to infrared spectroscopy (IR), which observes intramolecular vibrations. Coherent detection enables direct calculations of both the imaginary and the real parts of the refractive index without using the Kramers-Kronig relations. Terahertz wave spectroscopy has been used to study the properties and absorption spectra characteristic of materials. In this paper, the spectral characteristics of cow skin, pig skin sheep skin, horse skin and deer skin have been measured with terahertz time-domain spectroscopy in the range of 0.1~2.0THz. The results show that THz-TDS technology provides an important tool for quality analysis and detection of leathers.

Robust terahertz self-heterodyne system using a phase noise compensation technique.

PubMed

Song, Hajun; Song, Jong-In

2015-08-10

We propose and demonstrate a robust terahertz self-heterodyne system using a phase noise compensation technique. Conventional terahertz self-heterodyne systems suffer from degraded phase noise performance due to phase noise of the laser sources. The proposed phase noise compensation technique uses an additional photodiode and a simple electric circuit to produce phase noise identical to that observed in the terahertz signal produced by the self-heterodyne system. The phase noise is subsequently subtracted from the terahertz signal produced by the self-heterodyne system using a lock-in amplifier. While the terahertz self-heterodyne system using a phase noise compensation technique offers improved phase noise performance, it also provides a reduced phase drift against ambient temperature variations. The terahertz self-heterodyne system using a phase noise compensation technique shows a phase noise of 0.67 degree in terms of a standard deviation value even without using overall delay balance control. It also shows a phase drift of as small as approximately 10 degrees in an open-to-air measurement condition without any strict temperature control.

An effective way to reduce water absorption to terahertz

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Yaxiong; Su, Bo; He, Jingsuo; Zhang, Cong; Zhang, Hongfei; Zhang, Shengbo; Zhang, Cunlin

2018-01-01

Since many vibrations and rotational levels of biomolecules fall within the THz band, THz spectroscopy can be used to identify biological samples. In addition, most biomolecules need to maintain their biological activity in a liquid environment, but water as polar substance has strong absorption to the THz wave. Thus, it is difficult to detect the sample information in aqueous solution using THz wave. In order to prevent the information of biological samples were masked in the solution, many research methods were used to explore how to reduce the water absorption of terahertz. In this paper, we have developed a real-time chemical methodology through transmission Terahertz time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) system. The material of Zeonor 1020r is used as substrate and cover plate, and PDMS as channel interlayer. The transmission of the empty microfluidic chip is more than 80% in the range of 0.2-2.6 THz by THz-TDS system. Then, experiments were carried out using chips, which were filled with different volumes of 1, 2- propanediol, and it has been proved that the microfluidic chip could reduce the water absorption of terahertz. Finally, in order to further explore the reduction of terahertz to water absorption, we inject different concentrations of electrolyte to the chip. The results show that with the addition of different electrolytes, terahertz transmission line has evident changes. It can be taken into account that the electrolyte has different effects about the hydrogen bonds in the aqueous solution. Some of them can promote water molecules clusters, while others destroy them. Based on the basis of microfluidic chip, the discovery of this phenomenon can provide a way that reduces water absorption of terahertz. This work has laid a solid foundation for the subsequent study in reducing water absorption of terahertz.

Measurement of absolute frequency of continuous-wave terahertz radiation in real time using a free-running, dual-wavelength mode-locked, erbium-doped fibre laser

PubMed Central

Hu, Guoqing; Mizuguchi, Tatsuya; Zhao, Xin; Minamikawa, Takeo; Mizuno, Takahiko; Yang, Yuli; Li, Cui; Bai, Ming; Zheng, Zheng; Yasui, Takeshi

2017-01-01

A single, free-running, dual-wavelength mode-locked, erbium-doped fibre laser was exploited to measure the absolute frequency of continuous-wave terahertz (CW-THz) radiation in real time using dual THz combs of photo-carriers (dual PC-THz combs). Two independent mode-locked laser beams with different wavelengths and different repetition frequencies were generated from this laser and were used to generate dual PC-THz combs having different frequency spacings in photoconductive antennae. Based on the dual PC-THz combs, the absolute frequency of CW-THz radiation was determined with a relative precision of 1.2 × 10−9 and a relative accuracy of 1.4 × 10−9 at a sampling rate of 100 Hz. Real-time determination of the absolute frequency of CW-THz radiation varying over a few tens of GHz was also demonstrated. Use of a single dual-wavelength mode-locked fibre laser, in place of dual mode-locked lasers, greatly reduced the size, complexity, and cost of the measurement system while maintaining the real-time capability and high measurement precision. PMID:28186148

Terahertz Absorption by Cellulose: Application to Ancient Paper Artifacts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peccianti, M.; Fastampa, R.; Mosca Conte, A.; Pulci, O.; Violante, C.; Łojewska, J.; Clerici, M.; Morandotti, R.; Missori, M.

2017-06-01

Artifacts made of cellulose, such as ancient documents, pose a significant experimental challenge in the terahertz transmission spectra interpretation due to their small optical thickness. In this paper, we describe a method to recover the complex refractive index of cellulose fibers from the terahertz transmission data obtained on single freely standing paper sheets in the (0.2-3.5)-THz range. By using our technique, we eliminate Fabry-Perot effects and recover the absorption coefficient of the cellulose fibers. The obtained terahertz absorption spectra are explained in terms of absorption peaks of the cellulose crystalline phase superimposed to a background contribution due to a disordered hydrogen-bond network. The comparison between the experimental spectra with terahertz vibrational properties simulated by density-functional-theory calculations confirms this interpretation. In addition, evident changes in the terahertz absorption spectra are produced by natural and artificial aging on paper samples, whose final stage is characterized by a spectral profile with only two peaks at about 2.1 and 3.1 THz. These results can be used to provide a quantitative assessment of the state of preservation of cellulose artifacts.

Polarization-dependent thin-film wire-grid reflectarray for terahertz waves

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

Niu, Tiaoming; School of Information Science and Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000; Upadhyay, Aditi

2015-07-20

A thin-film polarization-dependent reflectarray based on patterned metallic wire grids is realized at 1 THz. Unlike conventional reflectarrays with resonant elements and a solid metal ground, parallel narrow metal strips with uniform spacing are employed in this design to construct both the radiation elements and the ground plane. For each radiation element, a certain number of thin strips with an identical length are grouped to effectively form a patch resonator with equivalent performance. The ground plane is made of continuous metallic strips, similar to conventional wire-grid polarizers. The structure can deflect incident waves with the polarization parallel to the stripsmore » into a designed direction and transmit the orthogonal polarization component. Measured radiation patterns show reasonable deflection efficiency and high polarization discrimination. Utilizing this flexible device approach, similar reflectarray designs can be realized for conformal mounting onto surfaces of cylindrical or spherical devices for terahertz imaging and communications.« less

Development of terahertz laser diagnostics for electron density measurements.

PubMed

Kawahata, K; Akiyama, T; Tanaka, K; Nakayama, K; Okajima, S

2008-10-01

A two color laser interferometer using terahertz laser sources is under development for high performance operation on the large helical device and for future burning plasma experiments such as ITER. Through investigation of terahertz laser sources, we have achieved high power simultaneous oscillations at 57.2 and 47.6 microm of a CH(3)OD laser pumped by a cw 9R(8) CO(2) laser line. The laser wavelength around 50 microm is the optimum value for future fusion devices from the consideration of the beam refraction effect and signal-to-noise ratio for an expected phase shift due to plasma. In this article, recent progress of the terahertz laser diagnostics, especially in mechanical vibration compensation by using a two color laser operation and terahertz laser beam transmission through a dielectric waveguide, will be presented.

Target recognition in passive terahertz image of human body

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Ran; Zhao, Yuan-meng; Deng, Chao; Zhang, Cun-lin; Li, Yue

2014-11-01

THz radiation can penetrate through many nonpolar dielectric materials and can be used for nondestructive/noninvasive sensing and imaging of targets under nonpolar, nonmetallic covers or containers. Thus using THz systems to "see through" concealing barriers (i.e. packaging, corrugated cardboard, clothing) has been proposed as a new security screening method. Objects that can be detected by THz include concealed weapons, explosives, and chemical agents under clothing. Passive THz imaging system can detect THz wave from human body without transmit any electromagnetic wave, and the suspicious objects will become visible because the THz wave is blocked by this items. We can find out whether or not someone is carrying dangerous objects through this image. In this paper, the THz image enhancement, segmentation and contour extraction algorithms were studied to achieve effective target image detection. First, the terahertz images are enhanced and their grayscales are stretched. Then we apply global threshold segmentation to extract the target, and finally the targets are marked on the image. Experimental results showed that the algorithm proposed in this paper can extract and mark targets effectively, so that people can identify suspicious objects under clothing quickly. The algorithm can significantly improve the usefulness of the terahertz security apparatus.

Propagation of single-cycle terahertz pulses in random media.

PubMed

Pearce, J; Mittleman, D M

2001-12-15

We describe what are to our knowledge the first measurements of the propagation of coherent, single-cycle pulses of terahertz radiation in a scattering medium. By measuring the transmission as a function of the length L of the medium, we extract the scattering mean free path l(s)(omega) over a broad bandwidth. We observe variations in l(s) ranging over nearly 2 orders of magnitude and covering the entire thin sample regime from L/l(s)<1 to L/l(s)~10 . We also observe scattering-induced dispersive effects, which can be attributed to the additional path traveled by photons scattered at small angles.

Sub-cycle control of terahertz high-harmonic generation by dynamical Bloch oscillations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schubert, O.; Hohenleutner, M.; Langer, F.; Urbanek, B.; Lange, C.; Huttner, U.; Golde, D.; Meier, T.; Kira, M.; Koch, S. W.; Huber, R.

2014-02-01

Ultrafast charge transport in strongly biased semiconductors is at the heart of high-speed electronics, electro-optics and fundamental solid-state physics. Intense light pulses in the terahertz spectral range have opened fascinating vistas. Because terahertz photon energies are far below typical electronic interband resonances, a stable electromagnetic waveform may serve as a precisely adjustable bias. Novel quantum phenomena have been anticipated for terahertz amplitudes, reaching atomic field strengths. We exploit controlled (multi-)terahertz waveforms with peak fields of 72 MV cm-1 to drive coherent interband polarization combined with dynamical Bloch oscillations in semiconducting gallium selenide. These dynamics entail the emission of phase-stable high-harmonic transients, covering the entire terahertz-to-visible spectral domain between 0.1 and 675 THz. Quantum interference of different ionization paths of accelerated charge carriers is controlled via the waveform of the driving field and explained by a quantum theory of inter- and intraband dynamics. Our results pave the way towards all-coherent terahertz-rate electronics.

Low-Loss Waveguides for Terahertz Frequencies