Frequency-tunable hybrid metamaterial terahertz logic gate with liquid crystal based on electromagnetically induced transparency

Abstract

Terahertz logic gates will have a wide range of applications in future 6G communications. In this study, we theoretically propose a frequency-tunable all-optical terahertz logic gate composed of a silicon-metal composite metamaterial with a liquid crystal (LC) layer. Simulation results demonstrate the presence of electromagnetically induced transparency in the transmission spectrum of the device. Upon illumination, the transparency window in the transmission spectrum can be altered owing to the photoelectric effect in Si segments. The designed device can realize NOR Boolean operation based on the illumination-transmission response. More importantly, the LC layer with adjustable permittivity presents an effective method for manipulating the device’s working frequency. The influences of the LC layer’s thickness on the transparency window are also studied.