Characterization and calibration of terahertz wave detectors

Abstract

Along with the emergence of high-energy terahertz (THz) sources, THz detection technology has been steadily advancing. The calibration of THz detectors plays a crucial role in THz-based experiments, as there is no single energy meter that exhibits a flat spectral response across a broadband THz frequency range. In this paper, I conducted various experiments to characterize a pyroelectric detector (PED) and a micro-bolometer camera, both of which serve as THz detectors. I performed direct and indirect calibration of the PED and demonstrated its potential in measuring the transmission spectra of THz waves transmitted through samples using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Furthermore, I conducted single-shot THz spectroscopy using a micro-bolometer camera, showing its capability of capturing ultrafast THz wave spectra in a single shot. Additionally, I introduced methods to enhance the signal-to-noise ratios in THz detection and calibration of THz detectors.