IngentaConnect Organic Broadband TeraHertz Sources and Sensors

Authors: Zheng, Xuemei; McLaughlin, Colin V.; Cunningham, P.; Hayden, L. Michael

Source: Journal of Nanoelectronics and Optoelectronics, Volume 2, Number 1, April 2007 , pp. 58-76(19)

Publisher: American Scientific Publishers

Abstract:

We review recent research using organic materials for generation and detection of broadband terahertz radiation (0.3 THz-30 THz). The main focus is on amorphous electrooptic (EO) polymers, with semiconducting polymers, molecular salt EO crystals, and molecular solutions briefly discussed. The advantages of amorphous EO polymers over other materials for broadband THz generation (via optical rectification) and detection (via EO sampling) include a lack of phonon absorption (good transparency) in the THz regime, high EO coefficient and good phase-matching properties, and, of course, easy fabrication (low cost). Our ∼12-THz, spectral gap-free THz system based on a polymer emitter-sensor pair is an excellent demonstration of the advantages using of EO polymers. We also present a model that can predict the performance of a polymer-based THz system. Both the dielectric properties of an EO polymer and laser pulse related parameters are included in the model, making the simulations close to real conditions. From our modeling work, the roles the dielectric properties play in the THz generation and detection are clearly seen, providing us with a good guide to select and design suitable EO polymers in the future.

Keywords: ELECTROOPTIC POLYMER; NONLINEAR OPTICS; TERAHERTZ; FAR INFRARED; SPECTROSCOPY

Document Type: Review article

DOI: 10.1166/jno.2007.005

Your trusted access to this article has expired.

The full text electronic article is available for purchase. You will be able to download the full text electronic article after payment.

$413.00 plus tax Refund Policy