This project has the aim of developing a cheap, compact, and high performance photonic platform compatible with mainstream Si-CMOS technology operating in the 1-10 THz range. By addressing significant material science challenges with innovative experimental and theoretical approaches, we will demonstrate two key components of the platform, i.e. the integrated source and low loss waveguides. As a light source, we will develop a quantum cascade laser based on electronic transitions occurring in the conduction band of Ge-rich GeSi/Ge quantum heterostructures. Read more

The Terahertz (THz) region of the electromagnetic spectrum lies between microwaves and the infrared. Its characteristic wave frequency thus extends from about 0.3 THz (a wavelength of 1 mm) to around 10 THz (a wavelength of 30 μm). The blooming interest for this spectral region is driven by a variety of reasons. Read more.