IEEE Dayton Section

The demand for faster communication technologies has motived exploration of higher frequency bands. Positioned between the microwave and infrared regions of the electromagnetic spectrum, the THz band offers the potential for ultra-high data rates and significant bandwidth. However, its practical utilization faces substantial challenges, including a limited number of available sources and receivers and severe atmospheric attenuation, collectively known as the "THz Gap." This research aims to address these challenges by exploring THz generation concepts and determining the feasibility of real-time propagation predictions. The study primarily focuses on using superconducting ring arrays to generate Radio Frequency (RF) radiation, leveraging prior and ongoing research. Characterization of THz emission will be conducted through modeling and measurements, primarily using FEKO, a commercially available electromagnetic solver. Measurements will utilize scaling principles of antenna structures, with efforts to detect actual THz radiation through various approaches. In addition to THz generation, the study will model THz propagation using the High Energy Laser End to End Operations Simulation (HELEEOS) tool developed by the Center for Directed Energy at the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT). This MATLAB-implemented code, originally developed for laser propagation predictions, will be applied to the THz frequency range for the first time. The proposed dissertation aims to answer two key research questions: (1) Can the generation of THz radiation using superconducting rings provide a viable alternative to existing approaches? (2) Can RF scaling principles enable the construction and prediction of THz propagation to assess true THz band utilization? The qualification of these questions will be achieved through a combination of measurements, modeling, and quantitative analysis, providing a comprehensive understanding of THz generation and propagation. Co-sponsored by: Wright-Patt Multi-Intelligence Development Consortium (WPMDC), The DOD & DOE Communities Speaker(s): Nathan Agenda: The demand for faster communication technologies has motived exploration of higher frequency bands. Positioned between the microwave and infrared regions of the electromagnetic spectrum, the THz band offers the potential for ultra-high data rates and significant bandwidth. However, its practical utilization faces substantial challenges, including a limited number of available sources and receivers and severe atmospheric attenuation, collectively known as the "THz Gap." This research aims to address these challenges by exploring THz generation concepts and determining the feasibility of real-time propagation predictions. The study primarily focuses on using superconducting ring arrays to generate Radio Frequency (RF) radiation, leveraging prior and ongoing research. Characterization of THz emission will be conducted through modeling and measurements, primarily using FEKO, a commercially available electromagnetic solver. Measurements will utilize scaling principles of antenna structures, with efforts to detect actual THz radiation through various approaches. In addition to THz generation, the study will model THz propagation using the High Energy Laser End to End Operations Simulation (HELEEOS) tool developed by the Center for Directed Energy at the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT). This MATLAB-implemented code, originally developed for laser propagation predictions, will be applied to the THz frequency range for the first time. The proposed dissertation aims to answer two key research questions: (1) Can the generation of THz radiation using superconducting rings provide a viable alternative to existing approaches? (2) Can RF scaling principles enable the construction and prediction of THz propagation to assess true THz band utilization? The qualification of these questions will be achieved through a combination of measurements, modeling, and quantitative analysis, providing a comprehensive understanding of THz generation and propagation. Virtual: https://events.vtools.ieee.org/m/425412