Chapter 7 Terahertz Nanoscale Science and Technology

The terahertz (THz) frequency range, which falls between the infrared and microwave portions of the spectrum, is rich in potential applications because the photon energies involved can open a window on physical and biological processes that are inaccessible to other wavelengths. After an introduction to the terahertz range, some example applications, and the techniques used for the generation, detection and manipulation of terahertz radiation, this chapter concentrates on the latest developments in terahertz nanoscale science and technology. Topics covered include the use of nano-structures to enhance the emission and detection of terahertz radiation; THz quantum cascade lasers; terahertz detection approaching the quantum limit; THz nanoscopy; terahertz scanning tunnelling microscopy (THz-STM); and the use of THz spectroscopy to probe biological function at the molecular level.