SBIR Phase I: Compact THz-ABCD Spectrometer

This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I research project proposes to develop a Compact TeraHertz (THz) Air-Breakdown-Coherent Detection (ABCD) Spectrometer. Specifically, this research will construct and integrate this THz spectrometer based on recent experimental and theoretical research on broadband THz waves produced from laser-induced plasma in ambient air. A focused optical pulse in a gas creates atmospheric plasma (ionized gas molecules) which produces very intense, highly-directional, and ultra-broadband THz waves in the far field. Through the reciprocal process, this plasma could also serve as a sensor of pulsed THz waves through air-breakdown coherent detection. With the introduction of secondary synchronized laser pulses, amplification of the THz field (amplitude, phase, and radiation direction) can also be achieved. Recent significant advances in THz science and technology will help scientists and engineers to use pulsed plasma to emit, control, enhance, and measure broadband THz waves. Applications include non-destructive testing, tomographic imaging, label-free genetic analysis, cellular level imaging, explosives detection, and chemical/biological sensing. In addition to advancing numerous sensing and imaging concepts in the THz frequency range, with an immediate impact on non-destructive analysis, a short-term application for homeland security and a longer-term interest in the biomedical sector.