Acquisition of Terahertz Spectrometer for Research and Education at Howard University
Abstract
We propose the acquisition of a terahertz spectrometer to establish a new research capability at Howard University. The selected instrumentation, high-speed asynchronous optical sampling (ASOPS) THz spectrometer (HASSP-THz) has significant advantages over conventional custom-built time-domain THz spectroscopy setups and other commercially available systems. Specifically, the HASSP-THz system features 1 GHz resolution and a 6 THz bandwidth all with very high dynamic range and fast acquisition time. It is easily configurable for three experimental geometries (transmission, reflection and attenuated total internal reflection) allowing for the evaluation of a wide selection of samples. With the acquisition of the HASSP-THz spectrometer, Howard University has the potential to be one of few HBCUÕs capable of performing terahertz research where MSI participation is limited and simultaneously, HowardÕs team will be contributing to research projects closely related to the scientific mission of the Department of Defense. The spectrometer will be primarily be used as a major multiuser tool in our new materials physics research program as discussed with the Office of Naval Research s Program for Electromagnetic Materials. In addition, with collaborations and individual projects in the Departments of Physics & Astronomy, Chemical Engineering and Electrical & Computer Engineering, the proposed equipment will greatly impact many current and future faculty members at Howard. External support for these projects include funding for NSF and startup funds allocated to the PI. The new instrumentation will also serve to train high school, undergraduate and graduate students in advanced characterization techniques through a diverse set of projects involving tunable terahertz metamaterials and low dimensional nanomaterials (Au nanorods and carbon nanotubes). Lastly, the THz spectrometer has great potential for use in the education of our students through integration of the equipment in undergraduate physics & engineering laboratory courses. Furthermore, the nanomaterials studied can be fabricated and characterized by at HowardÕs well-established mobile outreach laboratory, the NanoExpress, by members of the local DC area community ranging from ages ÒK-gray.Ó
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Sep 11, 2018
- Source ID
- W911NF1610481
Entities
People
- Thomas A. Searles
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- Howard University
- Office of the Secretary of Defense