Terahertz Emitter Based on Frequency Mixing in Microchip Solid-State Laser Cavity

Abstract

This project is concerned with development of tunable time-coherent THz source of 0.1-10 THz frequency range. During Phase I of this SBIR we have developed a unique design for nonlinear THz wave generation based on Difference Frequency Generation method, which will deliver the maximum possible energy conversion from optical to THz frequency domains. In the further fabrication stage of this project two types of coherent THz source will be developed: a quasi-cw tunable (0.1/0.3THz - 10 THz) narrowband source with frequency line width 100MHz (line quality factor ~10(exp 4), repetition rate ~10kHz) based on OPO single mode laser, and a cw broadband tunable source with frequency line width ~0.3THz based on DFB lasers. Developed multi-layer waveguide will provide the maximum possible efficiency of the nonlinear electromagnetic energy conversion from optical to THz domains. We expect to reach an average output power of 1mW required by the solicitation. The successful completion of this research project will benefit many new commercial markets in the future. Having coherent, tunable and handy THz source will bring scientists an opportunity to fully explore THz band. Particular applications include: spectroscopic miniature sensors of THz spectra of chem/bio-molecules; next generation THz electronics components with aim to future THz networks and computing chips; vision through clothing at the airport for security purposes; non-destructive imaging through teeth, since THz easily penetrates them; biological hyperspectral imaging of human body.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Sep 09, 2011
Accession Number
ADA587005

Entities

People

  • Alexander Raspopin

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Advanced Electronics
  • Energy and Power Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Chemical Vapor Deposition
  • Crystal Lattice Vibrations
  • Difference Frequency
  • Distributed Feedback Lasers
  • Electric Fields
  • Electromagnetic Radiation
  • Electronics
  • Energy Conversion
  • Equations
  • Frequency
  • Laser Beams
  • Materials
  • Optical Materials
  • Repetition Rate
  • Surface Plasmon Polaritons
  • Terahertz Radiation
  • Thin Films

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Optical Physics and Photonics.
  • Quantum Dot Semiconductor Device Photonics and Graphene Optoelectronic Materials and THz Physics.

Technology Areas

  • Directed Energy
  • Microelectronics