Optimization of Terahertz Wire Waveguide through Finite Element Simulations

Abstract

<p>The litera hertz" gap lies between the microwave and infrared regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. Terahertz radiation light has been in the past difficult to work with, but the field has grown considerably due to the recent development of promising experimental techniques to create, guide, and manipulate terahertz radiation. We investigate one of these techniques, the guiding of terahertz waves on the surface of metal wires. We report optimization of terahertz metal wire waveguides through the use of finite element method (FEM) simulations. The goal of this research is to utilize our novel waveguides to create a terahertz near-field microscope. Tapering wires allows for focusing of the radiation to sizes smaller than the diffraction limit. Periodic corrugations along the surface of the wire help confine the extent of the radial electric field. Our simulations study how frequency, taper rate, as well as corrugation width, depth, and spacing affect the propagation of terahertz radiation. The optimized waveguides will then be fabricated at Mound Laser and Photonics Center (MLPC), which has developed laser etching techniques that can create both the tapers and corrugations. The fabricated waveguides will be characterized in our lab, and assembled into the proposed near-field microscope.</p><p>This presentation occurred at the Wright State University Campus-Wide Celebration of Research, Scholarship and Creative Activities on April 16, 2010</p>