THz and IR Plasmonic Sources based on Drift-biased Nanostructures

Terahertz (THz) and far-infrared (IR) frequency bands offer significant opportunities in communication and spectroscopy systems, high-resolution imaging, sensing, and biomedical applications among many others. Unfortunately, THz and far-IR sources are usually challenging to construct, as they require bulky set-ups in the laboratory, cryogenic temperatures, or the presence of large magnets. In this paper, we explore the use of drift-biased graphene-based nanostructures to generate THz and far-IR waves in the form of surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs). We develop a theoretical and graphical formalism based on energy and momentum conservation, Green’s functions, and quantum mechanics to understand the underlying physics of the electron-photon coupling. Results show that high local density of states and ultra-confined modes supported by graphene hyperbolic structures boost the CR efficiency up to two orders of magnitude while drastically enhancing the process bandwidth. Our findings may find exciting applications to develop miniatured, broadband, efficient, and magnetless THz and IR sources.