Researchers from Tohoku University and RIKEN have successfully developed a high-speed, high-sensitivity terahertz-wave detector that operates at room temperature. This breakthrough in terahertz (THz) detection could significantly advance the development of next-generation 6G/7G technology. The details of this achievement were published in the journal Nanophotonics on November 9, 2023.
Terahertz waves, which fall between microwaves and infrared waves, are crucial for achieving faster communication speeds. However, conventional electronic- or photonic-based semiconductor devices face challenges when it comes to the quick and sensitive detection of THz waves at room temperature.
To address this issue, the research team turned to two-dimensional plasmons. Within a semiconductor field-effect transistor, there exists a two-dimensional electron channel where two-dimensional plasmons, collective charge-density quanta, are present. These plasmons exhibit fluid-like behaviors and can be excited by THz waves. The team utilized the nonlinear rectification effects of these plasmons, which originate from their fluid-like behaviors, and their rapid response capabilities to create a highly sensitive THz wave detector.
Akira Satou, the leader of the research group and associate professor at Tohoku University’s Research Institute for Electrical Communication (RIEC), explained that they discovered a three-dimensional plasmonic rectification effect in the THz wave detector. The detector utilized an indium-phosphide high-electron mobility transistor and achieved a detection sensitivity more than ten times higher than conventional detectors that rely on two-dimensional plasmons. The new detection method combined the vertical hydrodynamic nonlinear rectification effect of two-dimensional plasmons with a vertical diode-current nonlinearity.
Furthermore, this new detection method successfully resolved waveform distortion issues that commonly occur due to multiple reflections of high-speed modulated signals, which is a significant problem in conventional detectors based on two-dimensional plasmons.
Joining Satou in leading the research team were Specially Appointed Professor Tetsuya Suemitsu from Tohoku University’s New Industry Creation Hatchery Center and Hiroaki Minamide from RIKEN Center for Advanced Photonics.
Satou expressed optimism about the potential of their new detection mechanism, stating that it overcomes most of the challenges faced by conventional terahertz-wave detectors. Looking ahead, the team aims to further improve the device’s performance.
With the development of this high-speed, high-sensitivity terahertz-wave detector operating at room temperature, researchers have made significant progress in unlocking the potential of terahertz technology. Their findings hold promise for advancements in 6G/7G technology and may have a profound impact on various industries that rely on high-speed communication.
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1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
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