Related Experiment Videos
A terahertz system using semi-large emitters: noise and performance characteristics.
G Zhao1, R N Schouten, N van der Valk
1Department of Applied Physics, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Delft University of Technology, Lorentzweg 1, 2628 CJ Delft, The Netherlands.
Physics in Medicine and Biology
|November 28, 2002
Summary
We developed a simple, efficient terahertz (THz) system using a Ti:sapphire laser. It achieves high THz average power (40 microW), the highest reported from Ti:sapphire oscillators, enabling new research possibilities.
Area of Science:
- Optics and Photonics
- Solid-State Physics
- Electromagnetism
Background:
- Terahertz (THz) technology is crucial for various scientific and technological applications.
- Efficient generation and detection of THz radiation are key challenges in the field.
- Ti:sapphire lasers offer broad bandwidth and ultrashort pulses, making them suitable for THz generation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a simple and highly efficient terahertz (THz) emission and detection system.
- To achieve high THz average power using a Ti:sapphire laser source.
- To demonstrate a robust THz system with quantum-noise limited detection.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a 15 fs Ti:sapphire laser focused on a GaAs crystal with biased electrodes.
- Employed rapid delay scanning and lock-in detection at 50 kHz for signal acquisition.
- Used a standard electro-optic detection scheme with a ZnTe crystal for THz detection.
Main Results:
- Achieved a maximum THz-induced differential signal of deltaP/P = 7 x 10(-3).
- Measured a THz peak amplitude of 95 V cm(-1).
- Obtained a THz average power of approximately 40 microW, the highest reported for Ti:sapphire oscillators.
Conclusions:
- The developed THz system is simple, highly efficient, and utilizes off-the-shelf components.
- The system demonstrates quantum-noise limited detection capabilities.
- The achieved high THz power output opens avenues for advanced THz research and applications.