Ultra-wideband tri-layer transmissive linear polarization converter for terahertz waves

Abstract

Polarization control is shown to enhance functionalities of terahertz waves in various applications. As a step toward introducing efficient practical devices operating in the terahertz band, we propose and experimentally validate a free-standing three-layer polarization converter operating in transmission. The device can efficiently convert a linearly polarized terahertz wave to its orthogonal counterpart. Our device comprises split-ring and H-shaped resonators inserted between two layers of orthogonal wire gratings. The sole dielectric material is a cyclic olefin copolymer (COC) that has exceptionally low-loss to terahertz waves. The measurement demonstrates a conversion efficiency of >80%, over 0.2-1.0 THz, giving an ultra-wide bandwidth of 133%. The wide bandwidth is attributed to multiple resonances of the two resonators in a unit cell. Importantly, an unconventional fabrication process yields a multi-layer low-loss COC that leads to high efficiency. The proposed design can also be tailored for practical applications across the electromagnetic spectrum.