(Invited) Inkjet-Printed Terahertz Detector

Abstract

Terahertz waves have shown promise for a number of applications but challenges in developing sources and detectors in this frequency range have prevented broader adoption of the technology. On the detector side, recent work has focused on developing imaging arrays and in improving their performance, which often requires cooling of devices made by photolithography on rigid substrates. Here we present a different approach that focuses on room-temperature detection using inkjet-printed carbon nanotube (CNT) devices. The inkjet printing approach allows for facile, on-the-fly design and printing of devices, including in array format. The structural flexibility of the devices opens new avenues for imaging in non-planar geometries. In this presentation, I will discuss the challenges in developing and printing CNT inks for this particular application, and their properties in the THz. Results of THz detection of CNT pixel arrays will be presented, as well as the factors that impact performance.