Terahertz superlattice parametric oscillator

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates a GaAs/AlAs superlattice parametric oscillator that generates high-frequency terahertz radiation using electron Bragg reflections, with potential for operation above 10 THz and further nonlinear studies.

Contribution

It introduces a novel superlattice-based parametric oscillator capable of producing terahertz radiation through electron Bragg reflection nonlinearities.

Findings

Produced 3rd harmonic radiation near 300 GHz with low microwave power

Theoretically predicts operation above 10 THz

Highlights potential for studying extraordinary nonlinearities in THz fields

Abstract

We report a GaAs/AlAs superlattice parametric oscillator. It was pumped by a microwave field (power few mW) and produced 3rd harmonic radiation (frequency near 300 GHz). The nonlinearity of the active superlattice was due to Bragg reflections of conduction electrons at the superlattice planes. A theory of the nonlinearity indicates that parametric oscillation should be possible up to frequencies above 10 THz. The active superlattice may be the object of further studies of predicted extraordinary nonlinearities for THz fields.