THz source development for THz nonlinear optics and industrial applications

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Fundamental research in photonics is enabling real-world applications at Terahertz (THz) frequencies (~0.1-10 THz), which have unique properties driving exciting new developments in non-destructive evaluation (NDE); at THz frequencies, most dry non-metallic materials are transparent, sub-mm spatial resolution is possible, transmission is sensitive to moisture content, and internal structure can be revealed. THz NDE is therefore a competitive technology to X-rays in many ways, but without the associated health risks. It is critical to understand fundamental THz interactions, so that appropriate models can be developed supporting applications. ******In my research lab, we study applications to wood products, developing interaction models that allow simultaneous measurements of wood density, moisture content, and fibre structure, with the ultimate goal of industry adoption of the technology. We will accomplish this through extending our past work, with an emphasis on developing new models appropriate for inexpensive, cw, sub-THz imaging cameras that are becoming available. To further THz-NDE research, a single-pixel camera will be developed (for imaging studies), significantly reducing the cost of THz imaging by removing the need for an array of detectors (cost-prohibitive) or raster scanning (no moving parts). The goal is to develop a robust platform suitable for exploring a broad range of applications – from submarine hull inspection to scanning dimensional lumber.******Understanding fundamental interactions of THz fields in semiconductors is becoming important and relevant as electronic devices push the boundaries to ever-smaller sizes, using larger electric fields at higher speeds. Over the past decade, ~MV/cm focused THz fields have become available, which has allowed a new field of THz nonlinear optics to develop rapidly. We are developing a unique source capable of producing strong THz fields at low frequency (<1 THz) to exploit the large ponderomotive potential for carriers, allowing us to efficiently drive carrier dynamics into nonlinear regimes. We plan to refine our source, and use it to separate the bulk nonlinear response from that related to carriers in semiconductors to pursue THz nonlinear optics. ******This research will improve the quality and capability of my research lab, specifically addressing (i) the changing landscape of commercially available technologies suitable for industrial applications, and (ii) the need for scientific study of emerging applications required for successful industry adoption of the technology, which in turn will rely on our (iii) careful study of THz-matter interactions at a fundamental level. It will advance the state-of-the art in applications of THz technology, enhancing innovation and industry adoption, and will lead to new technologies appropriate for the wood products and photonics industries that are economically important to Canada.