Ultra-wideband MHz to THz plasmonic EO modulator

Abstract

Electromagnetic fields at terahertz frequencies open a window to multiple applications, such as wireless communication, sensing, and medical imaging. Yet the challenge remains to efficiently generate, receive and process such high frequencies. In this work, we investigate plasmonic modulators to bring THz frequencies to photonic integrated circuits (PICs). We demonstrate a frequency response beyond the 1 THz and develop an equivalent circuit model of the modulator. Our results show that plasmonic modulators are uniquely suited for THz PICs.