Detection of Broadband Terahertz Waves with a Laser-Induced Plasma in Gases

Jianming Dai, Xu Xie, and X.-C. Zhang
Phys. Rev. Lett. 97, 103903 – Published 8 September 2006

Abstract

We report the experimental results and theoretical analysis of broadband detection of terahertz (THz) waves via electric-field-induced second-harmonic generation in laser-induced air plasma with ultrashort laser pulses. By introducing the second-harmonic component of the white light in the laser-induced plasma as a local oscillator, coherent detection of broadband THz waves with ambient air is demonstrated for the first time. Our results show that, depending on the probe intensity, detection of THz waves in air can be categorized as incoherent, hybrid, and coherent detection. Coherent detection is achieved only when the tunnel ionization process dominates in gases.

  • Figure
  • Figure
  • Figure
  • Figure
  • Figure
  • Received 25 April 2006

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.97.103903

©2006 American Physical Society

Authors & Affiliations

Jianming Dai, Xu Xie, and X.-C. Zhang*

  • Center for Terahertz Research, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York 12180, USA

  • *Electronic address: zhangxc@rpi.edu

Article Text (Subscription Required)

Click to Expand

References (Subscription Required)

Click to Expand
Issue

Vol. 97, Iss. 10 — 8 September 2006

Reuse & Permissions
Access Options
Author publication services for translation and copyediting assistance advertisement

Authorization Required


×
×

Images

×

Sign up to receive regular email alerts from Physical Review Letters

Log In

Cancel
×

Search


Article Lookup

Paste a citation or DOI

Enter a citation
×