TeraÉTS Laboratory

We are exploring real-time THz wave detection techniques to meet the challenges of ultrafast packet communications applications. The system used enables THz signals to be detected with great sensitivity and speed, essential for communications or spectroscopic aspects in the THz domain. These devices efficiently convert THz waves into optical signals, enabling rapid information processing. For signal modulation purposes, the system uses metamaterial-based modulators, offering optimum flexibility. This technology is one key for applications in a variety of sectors, such as next-generation ultrawideband wireless communications (6G and beyond), secure networks and adaptive systems capable of adjusting to environmental variations. By combining these sensing and modulation technologies, the system would be able to meet the requirements of future communication networks, notably for high data rates and minimal latencies, while also offering potential for applications in the quantum field.

Principal investigator: Joel Edouard Nkeck

Our research delves into chaos theory to model nonlinear dynamics in THz metasurfaces. This approach provides a deeper understanding of material responses and opens up novel methods for encrypting THz signals. By advancing our understanding of light-matter nonlinear interactions in the THz frequency range, we aim to propose new communication protocols with ultra-secure information transfer.

Principal investigator: Gervais Dolvis Leutcho

We are creating compact and fast THz polarimetric systems to analyze birefringent materials. By incorporating reconfigurable frequency selective surfaces (FSS), we achieve high modulation depths without relying on external stimuli like optical or electrical excitation. This innovation simplifies system design while enhancing functionality for material characterization.

Principal investigator: Redwan Ahmad

We have developed a novel, simplified THz spectrometer that integrates AI-enhanced data mining for efficient and accurate material classification. We also aims at developing a statistical noise model using deep CNN for super-resolution imaging and image edge detection via metasurface-based computational optics. Additionally, we are building the first public THz image dataset to support global research and innovation.

Principal investigator: Rejeena Sebastian

Low-cost THz waveguides are being developed to minimize losses and optimize signal propagation. These waveguides are key to advancing THz imaging and communication systems, ensuring precise delivery of THz energy where it is needed. This work lays the foundation for scalable and high-performance THz systems.

Principal investigator: Deepak Kararwal

We are developing ultrasensitive THz sensors capable of detecting single photons, a breakthrough for quantum applications. These sensors address a critical challenge in THz detection efficiency, paving the way for future quantum technologies. Beyond quantum applications, these sensors enable novel spectroscopic and imaging schemes with unprecedented sensitivity and open up new opportunities for industrial applications as well.

Principal investigator: Gabriel Gandubert

This project aims to demonstrate a next-generation communication platform operating in the terahertz frequency range, utilizing packet protocols and intelligent reflective surfaces. By employing spatial encoding and decoding techniques, we are unlocking unprecedented bandwidths, enabling ultra-fast and secure data transmission. This technology holds immense promise for future high-speed communication and has the potential to open new avenues for ultrafast terahertz (THz) imaging.

Principal investigator: Jonathan Lafrenière-Greig

The project involves developing a femtosecond laser operating at 1550 nm and generating its harmonic at 800 nm. It also includes integrating a transmitter and a detector into the laser cavity to create a THz system. This system will need to operate in a closed loop for precise measurements and control.

Principal investigator: Salim Hmidi

This project aims to compare and improve the performance of a terahertz spectrometer by integrating artificial intelligence and frequency-selective surfaces. The development of this new spectrometer will allow simplified and efficient sample analysis while reducing the complexity and costs of current systems. Furthermore, this system can be applied to a wide range of fields, including ultra-fast THz imaging.

Principal investigator: Leyla Agosti Cagalli Burri

Our team is improving THz emitters such as photoconductive antennas by developing large-aperture designs with interdigitated structures. Using high-power laser pulses and innovative fabrication methods like metallic inkjet printing, we are advancing fast, cost-effective THz source production. Similarly, using nonlinear processes in lithium niobate crystals enables us to generate intense THz pulses with field strengths reaching several hundred kV/cm.

Principal investigator: Xavier Ropagnol