A spatial light modulator for terahertz beams

Abstract

We design and implement a multipixel spatial modulator for terahertz beams using active terahertz metamaterials. Our first-generation device consists of a 4×4 pixel array, where each pixel is an array of subwavelength-sized split-ring resonator elements fabricated on a semiconductor substrate, and is independently controlled by applying an external voltage. Through terahertz transmission experiments, we show that the spatial modulator has a uniform modulation depth of around 40% across all pixels, and negligible crosstalk, at the resonant frequency. This device can operate under small voltage levels, at room temperature, with low power consumption and reasonably high switching speed.