Optimization processes for pulsed terahertz systems

Abstract

In this work, a pulsed terahertz (THz) system is designed and implemented. The work introduces a methodology for implementing such THz systems through three design processes: collineation, autocorrelation, and electro-optic. The collineation process establishes spatial alignment between the overlapped pump and probe beams, to ensure that there is similar spatial alignment between the subsequent THz and probe beams. The autocorrelation process characterizes the optical path difference between pulses in the THz and probe beams to define the precise temporal zero-time of the THz system. The electro-optic process optimizes the polarization-sensitive optics in the THz system to maximize the THz-induced modulation on the probe polarization. The processes are applied to design and implement a successful THz system.