Terahertz and infrared Smith-Purcell radiation from Babinet metasurfaces: Loss and efficiency

Abstract

When a charged particle moves close and parallel to the surface of a Babinet metasurface composed of metallic $C$-aperture resonators, strong electromagnetic radiation arises at resonant frequency. Here we systematically study the Smith-Purcell effects in Babinet metasurfaces with different periods. By tuning the period, the resonant (or working) frequency of the metasurface can vary from GHz to THz and infrared ranges. It is found that for working frequencies lower than 10 GHz, the ratio of absorption loss to input power is about 3.7%. Although the loss ratio increases with increasing working frequency, it remains as low as 11% (29%) at a working frequency of 10 THz (224 THz). Due to the existence of loss, a nonlinear relationship is also found between resonant frequency and the reciprocal of period. Our results suggest that Babinet metasurfaces could be a good candidate for fabricating efficient, compact THz and infrared free-electron light sources.