Terahertz Engineering Laboratory
Terahertz spectrum
The terahertz spectrum, which spans from 0.1 to 10 THz, occupies the region between the microwave and infrared bands. It is one of the most underutilised parts of the electromagnetic spectrum in terms of sensing, imaging, and communications. One of the unique features of terahertz waves is their ability to penetrate non-metallic materials with high spatial and depth resolutions, making them ideal for non-contact security screening of both humans and objects, as well as non-destructive evaluation of various materials. Importantly, the generous bandwidth of the terahertz spectrum holds great promise for high-speed wireless communications with line-of-sight applications. Overall, the terahertz spectrum has immense potential in numerous applications, and its capabilities are yet to be fully explored.
Laboratory capabilities
The Terahertz Engineering Laboratory is a dynamic research group that is part of the School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering at the University of Adelaide. The Laboratory was established in 2018 under the Australian Research Council (ARC) Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment and Facilities (LIEF) grant LE180100003, with financial co-contributions from RMIT University, University of Wollongong, and The University of Sydney. At the Terahertz Engineering Laboratory, we host a wide range of modular terahertz components and systems. These highly customizable systems are direct precursors to future terahertz integrated systems and are successors to the bulky ultrafast-laser terahertz systems of the past. Our research is supported by various funding bodies, including the ARC Discovery Projects grants DP170101922, DP180103561, DP220100489, and DP240100162. These grants have helped to reinforce our activities in standoff sensing, integrated platforms, and 6G communications, as well as research beyond these areas.
Looking forward
Our research activities encompass both strategic basic research and applied research, with a particular emphasis on engineering aspects of terahertz technology for practical applications. Our research challenges are informed by practical requirements and current limitations. As terahertz technology lies at the intersection of the microwave and optics fields, we strive to consolidate and expand techniques from both domains to find potential solutions to current challenges. Our laboratory is set to take on challenges in unconventional devices, 6G communications, short-range radar, and non-destructive evaluation using terahertz technology. Through our work at the Terahertz Engineering Laboratory, we aim to push the boundaries of terahertz technology and advance its potential applications. We strive to develop cutting-edge technology that is both innovative and practical, and we are committed to driving progress in this exciting field.
Patrons
We would like to acknowledge these agencies for their financial and in-kind support at some points in time since the inception of our laboratory in 2018. Please note that the opinions expressed in our research are solely those of our group and do not reflect the views of our sponsors.
