Title: Spin-based detection of terahertz and sub-terahertz electromagnetic radiation

Abstract

Systems and methods for spin-based detection of electromagnetic radiation at terahertz and sub-terahertz frequencies is provided. The detector can include a heterostructure, a magnetic field generator, and an electrical circuit. The heterostructure can include a first layer formed of an antiferromagnetic material (AFM) in contact with a second layer of a heavy metal (HM) or a topological insulator. The magnetic field generator can generate a magnetic field oriented approximately parallel to an easy axis of the first layer and approximately parallel to a propagation direction of electromagnetic radiation. The circuit can be in electrical communication with the second layer. The first layer can inject a spin current into the second layer in response to receipt of electromagnetic radiation having a sub-terahertz or terahertz frequency. The second layer can convert the injected spin current into a potential difference. The circuit can be configured to output a signal corresponding to the potential difference.

Inventors:

Shi, Jing; Li, Junxue

Issue Date:

2023-05-02

Research Org.:

Univ. of California, Oakland, CA (United States)

Sponsoring Org.:

USDOE

OSTI Identifier:

1998343

Patent Number(s):

11639975

Application Number:

17/020,796

Assignee:

The Regents of the University of California (Oakland, CA)

DOE Contract Number:  

SC0012670

Resource Type:

Patent

Resource Relation:

Patent File Date: 09/14/2020

Country of Publication:

United States

Language:

English