Ultra low loss waveguide for broadband terahertz radiation
- Detailed Technology Description
- A device that propagates THz radiation over distances of kilometers.
- *Abstract
-
Technology
This invention is a device which transports terahertz radiation over long distances with much less attenuation than current technology allows. The device incorporates a new concept for guiding THz radiation, which exploits the properties of the lowest-order transverse electric mode of a parallel plate waveguide.
Advantages
Because of the unique frequency-dependent loss characteristics of this mode, terahertz radiation can propagate for distances of kilometers rather than meters. The device allows for an attenuation that is only a factor of three higher than that of telecommunications grade optical wire, which more than 1000 times smaller than recently reported attenuation using a dielectric/metal waveguide.
Potential Applications
THz waves can be used to image an object and determine its chemical makeup. Because THz frequencies easily pass through clothing and packaging materials, this technology is being considered for security applications, such as detection of hidden weapons, illegal drugs, and explosives on people and in luggage.
The Inventors
Rajind Mendis is a Postdoctoral Research Associate in the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department at Rice University.
Daniel Mittleman is an Associate Professor in the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department at Rice University.
Availability
This technology is available for license from Rice University.
A utility patent (12/434,454) has been filed with the USPTO.Inquiries
Nila Bhakuni
713-348-6231
bhakuni@rice.edu
- Country/Region
- USA
