Terahertz Wave Generation Device using Multi-Quantum Well with Transverse Electric Field

Abstract

A multi-quantum-well (MQW) device with an electric field in the MQW plane was proposed as a high-power terahertz electromagnetic wave (THz wave) generator. High-power THz waves were generated by ultrashort optical pulse excitation of the MQW device. In the excitation wavelength dependence, the amplitude of the THz wave had a peak at around exciton absorption in the MQW, which implies that the THz wave is generated by the acceleration of photoexcited carriers in the MQW region. The amplitude was proportional to an applied voltage, and the power of the THz wave at an applied voltage of 500 V was 60 times higher than that of the bulk InAs reference.