F2-C Physics of Terahertz Wave Generation and Detection in Gases

Abstract:Standoff terahertz (THz) wave generation and detection using the intervening gaseous medium as both the THz wave emitter and sensor (also termed "THz air photonics") has attracted much scientific attention [1-11]. The underlying physics behind THz air photonics is crucial for its potential applications in THz wave remote sensing/identification and nonlinear THz spectroscopy. We report on recent progress and new findings on the following aspects. First, remote THz wave generation in ambient air at a distance of over 17 meters has been demonstrated. Second, remote THz wave sensing at a distances of over 10 meters using Terahertz Radiation Enhanced Emission of Fluorescence (REEF) in two-color configuration has been realized. Third, using a full quantum mechanical model, we predicted the THz polarization effect in two-color laser-induced gas, and experimentally found that the polarization orientation of the emitted THz waves rotates as the relative phase between the fundamental pulse at 800 nm and its second harmonic at 400 nm changes [9].

Faculty and Staff Currently Involved in Project:

X.-C. Zhang
Professor
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Jianming Dai
Research Associate Professor
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Masashi Yamaguchi
Assistant Professor
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Students Currently Involved in Project:

Jian Chen, Ph. D.
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Jingle Liu, Ph. D.
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

I-Chen Ho, Ph. D.
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute