Engineering QUAntum materials for TErahertz applications

Introduction

I propose to demonstrate a novel design paradigm for terahertz (THz) technologies, which places the ultrafast thermodynamic properties of quantum materials at the heart. Approaches with conventional semiconductors and metals, as well as recent attempts with two-dimensional materials, typically aim to exploit the optoelectronic properties of materials towards developing THz components and systems.

Current Challenges

This has so far not led to the desired breakthrough that the currently still underdeveloped terahertz regime so greatly needs. The vision of this project is that the truly game-changing potential of quantum materials for THz applications lies in their exceptional ultrafast thermodynamic properties.

Quantum Materials

Quantum materials, such as graphene and topological insulators, have giant thermodynamic THz nonlinearities and generate ultrafast and efficient THz-induced thermoelectric photocurrents. They can be combined with photonic structures into quantum metamaterials with strongly enhanced light-matter interaction and are compatible with established electronic and photonic technologies.

Project Goals

Exploiting these and more remarkable properties, we will demonstrate:

1. THz emitters
2. Nonlinear THz converters
3. THz detectors

All based primarily on thermodynamic design principles. These will outperform currently available THz components on several fronts and establish quantum materials as the ideal material platform for integrated THz photonics with novel capabilities.

Research Focus

Specifically, we will focus on a combination of quantum materials that are relatively well understood, and novel material systems that are promising yet less well understood.

Expected Impact

As a result, we expect major impacts both on a fundamental level in terms of understanding ultrafast thermodynamic phenomena, and on an applied level in terms of engineering these thermodynamic properties towards concrete THz technologies.

Conclusion

The ultimate goal is to unlock the full potential of the THz range and bring utility and benefit to society.