SINX/AL METAMATERIAL-BASED TERAHERTZ-TO-INFRARED CONVERTER FOR REAL-TIME IMAGING
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Authors
Lee, Sangmin
Subjects
THz
terahertz
IR
imaging
metamaterial
converter
real-time
terahertz
IR
imaging
metamaterial
converter
real-time
Advisors
Karunasiri, Gamani
Alves, Fabio D.
Date of Issue
2019-06
Date
Publisher
Monterey, CA; Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
Terahertz (THz) real-time imaging technology can be used in various fields. One way to perform real-time THz imaging is through metamaterial-based MEMS focal plane arrays (FPA). Among different possible configurations, THz-to-IR converters were selected to be studied and developed. The operation principle is using an IR camera to image the heat pattern on the backside of the FPA, generated by the absorption of the THz scene, presented on the front side of the FPA. In this study, we designed and fabricated metamaterials that efficiently absorb 3.8 THz and 4.75 THz, the frequencies of the quantum cascade lasers available in the Naval Postgraduate School Physics Department. Metamaterials that have near 1 emissivity between 20 and 40 THz and near zero elsewhere were also designed. To develop this sensor, the properties of silicon nitride films were investigated using single square unit cells. Next, the geometric configuration of the metamaterial elements were designed using the COMSOL Multiphysics and CST Microwave studio. Finally, the metamaterials were fabricated using tools available in the NPS microfabrication facility (Clean Room). The optimized metamaterial films obtained during thesis work will be used in an optimized THz-to-IR converter to be integrated to a long-wave infrared camera in order to provide a complete THz imaging system.
Type
Thesis
Description
Series/Report No
Department
Physics (PH)
Organization
Identifiers
NPS Report Number
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Distribution Statement
Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
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Copyright is reserved by the copyright owner.