Image via WikipediaBackground: Terahertz radiation comprises the region of the spectrum just below infrared. Radiation in this spectral region is notable for its exceptional ability to pass through materials and organic substances without the damaging ionization effects produced by x-rays. Because of their highly transmissive properties, terahertz waves are being used in a variety of industries including material inspection, security, and medical imaging.
One drawback in the use of terahertz waves is that current systems of generating them are large, cumbersome, and complex. In order to make terahertz radiation more pratically available, a simple, easily manufactured system for generating terahertz radiation is needed.
Summary: University of Arizona researchers have developed a means for the thermal generation of terahertz waves in a compact and efficient design. Through a combination of a conducting interface and a series of periodic or semi-periodic holes, the radiation emitted is manifested in narrow-band peaks in the terahertz regime. The radii of the holes determine the emitted frequency while fine tuning can be achieved by control of the thickness and composition of the surrounding dielectrics. The emission spectrum is independent of the substrate temperature, so the device can be operated at high temperatures, thus increasing the in-band power of the terahertz radiation.
Stage of Development: Experimental proof-of-concept emitters have been fabricated and characterized.
Applications:
* Biomedical imaging
* THz source for time domain spectroscopy
* Chemical, explosive and biological agent detection
* Postal and shipping inspection
* Transportation security inspection
Advantages:
* Compact, low-cost, efficient source of THz radiation
* Tunable narrow-band peaks over a broad frequency range
Lead Inventors: Prof. Robert Norwood, Savas Tay
Status: Patent Application No. US 12/595,345
Contact: Amy Phillips
aphillips@optics.arizona.edu
Refer to Case # UA07-081
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