Electrically tunable terahertz switch based on superconducting subwavelength hole arrays

Area of Science:

• Condensed Matter Physics
• Terahertz (THz) Photonics
• Superconducting Devices

Background:

• Terahertz (THz) technology requires efficient and controllable transmission devices.
• Existing THz devices often lack real-time tunability and miniaturization capabilities.
• Superconducting materials offer unique properties for advanced electronic applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate an electrically tunable superconducting device for switching THz transmission.
• To investigate the real-time control and frequency-selective characteristics of the device.
• To provide a promising approach for active, miniaturized THz devices in cryogenic systems.

Main Methods:

• Experimental fabrication of a planar device with subwavelength hole arrays.
• Utilizing superconducting properties for electrical tunability.
• Characterizing THz transmission coefficients and intensity modulation under varying applied voltages.

Main Results:

• Achieved a maximum THz transmission coefficient of 0.98 at 0.33 THz.
• Demonstrated efficient switching with transmission dropping to 0.17 at 1.3 V.
• Observed 82.7% relative intensity modulation, confirming efficient THz switching.
• Exhibited narrow-bandpass characteristics within 2 THz, suitable for frequency selection.

Conclusions:

• The developed superconducting device acts as an efficient, electrically tunable THz switch.
• The device's narrow-bandpass characteristic enables frequency-selective applications.
• This work presents a viable tuning method for active, miniaturized THz devices in cryogenic environments.