A group of researchers has created new techniques to improve the frequency conversion of terahertz (THz) waves in graphene-based materials. This breakthrough opens the door to quicker and more efficient technologies in the fields of wireless communication and signal processing.
A group of researchers from the University of Ottawa has created new techniques to improve the frequency conversion of terahertz (THz) waves in graphene-based materials, opening the door to quicker and more efficient technologies in wireless communication and signal processing.
THz waves, found in the far-infrared part of the electromagnetic spectrum, can be utilized for non-invasive imaging through opaque substances, making them valuable for security and quality control. They also have significant potential for wireless communication. Progress in THz nonlinear optics, which allows for frequency alterations of electromagnetic waves, is crucial for developing high-speed wireless communication and signal processing systems for upcoming 6G technologies and beyond.
THz technologies are evolving rapidly and are expected to play a vital role in areas such as healthcare, communication, security, and quality assurance. Jean-Michel Ménard, an Associate Professor of Physics at the Faculty of Science, along with his research team, has made advances toward creating devices that can convert electromagnetic signals to higher oscillation frequencies, effectively linking GHz electronics with THz photonics.
Their findings—published in Light: Science & Applications—showcase innovative strategies for boosting THz nonlinearities in devices made of graphene. “This research is a major stride in enhancing the efficiency of THz frequency converters, which is essential for multi-spectral THz applications and the future of communication systems like 6G,” states Professor Ménard. He collaborated with other researchers from uOttawa, including Ali Maleki and Robert W. Boyd, as well as Moritz B. Heindl and Georg Herink from the University of Bayreuth in Germany, and Iridian Spectral Technologies.
This new research highlights methods to exploit the distinctive optical characteristics of graphene, a revolutionary material composed of a single layer of carbon atoms. This two-dimensional material can be easily integrated into devices, paving the way for new possibilities in signal processing and communication.
Previous studies that combined THz light with graphene primarily concentrated on basic light-matter interactions, often focusing on the impact of a single experimental parameter. Consequently, the nonlinear effects observed were quite weak. To address this issue, Professor Ménard and his team utilized various innovative strategies to strengthen nonlinear effects and maximize the unique properties of graphene.
“Our experimental setup and novel device designs allow us to investigate a wide array of materials beyond graphene, potentially uncovering new nonlinear optical mechanisms,” adds Ali Maleki, a PhD student in the Ultrafast THz group at uOttawa, who played a key role in collecting and analyzing data for the study.
“Such research and development efforts are vital for refining THz frequency conversion techniques and eventually lead to the application of this technology in practical settings, particularly for creating efficient, chip-integrated nonlinear THz signal converters that will power future communication systems.”
