Systems, methods, and apparatus for radiation detection

Abstract

A radiation detection technique employs field enhancing structures and electroluminescent materials to converts incident Terahertz (THz) radiation into visible light and/or infrared light. In this technique, the field-enhancing structures, such as split ring resonators or micro-slits, enhances the electric field of incoming THz light within a local area, where the electroluminescent material is applied. The enhanced electric field then induces the electroluminescent material to emit visible and/or infrared light via electroluminescent process. A detector such as avalanche photodiode can detect and measure the emitted light. This technique allows cost-effective detection of THz radiation at room temperatures.

1 . An apparatus for detecting electromagnetic radiation including a first spectral component having a first frequency within a range of about 100 GHz to about 100 THz, the apparatus comprising:
 a conductive structure defining a first gap to receive and trap the electromagnetic radiation so as to generate an enhanced electric field in response to the first spectral component;   an electroluminescent (EL) material disposed at least partially within the first gap to emit light in response to the enhanced electric field; and   a silicon oxide layer, disposed between the conductive structure and the EL material, to electrically insulate the-conductive structure from the EL material.