Rapid Prototyped Terahertz-Domain Gradient Index Optics: Computational Design, Simulation, and Manufacture

Abstract

There are a myriad of applications for terahertz radiation: security, military radar, product inspection, and telecommunications. These require manipulation of the radiation beyond simple transmission and detection, namely refraction: focusing, defocusing, and collimation. The current state of the art fabrication of terahertz lenses is an expensive and time consuming processes; involving high purity semiconductors and months of lead time. Our project focused on demonstrating that an inexpensive and quick process could reduce the production investment required by more than three orders of magnitude. This process is based on fabrication using a novel gradient index structure produced with polymer-jetting rapid-prototyping machine.