# Drifting plasmons in two-dimensional electron channels: circuit analogy

## TL;DR

The paper introduces a circuit model for drifting plasmons in electron channels, enabling the design of non-reciprocal terahertz devices.

## Contribution

A novel circuit model for drifting plasmons with distributed dependent sources and non-reciprocity in transmission lines is introduced.

## Key findings

- Drifting plasmons can be modeled using an LC-transmission line with dependent sources.
- Non-reciprocity is demonstrated in right- and left-handed transmission line examples.
- The circuit model can aid in designing non-reciprocal terahertz devices.

## Abstract

Plasmons in two-dimensional electron channels have potential applications in the terahertz frequency range. Equivalent circuit models provide a convenient framework for analysing the plasmons. This article introduces a circuit model for plasmons in the presence of a dc current that flows in a gated channel. It is shown that drifting plasmons can be described by an LC-transmission line with distributed dependent sources. A circuit analogue of the Dyakonov–Shur instability is demonstrated. Then, a lumped-element transmission line with dependent sources is analysed, and non-reciprocity is demonstrated for examples of a right- and a left-handed transmission line. Effects of ohmic loss are discussed. The results could be used for the design of non-reciprocal transmission line devices.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Celebrating the 15th anniversary of the Royal Society Newton International Fellowship’.