Polarization-insensitive terahertz ultra-wideband absorber with an actively tunable bandwidth

Abstract

This study presents a novel, to our knowledge, polarization-insensitive terahertz absorber with an actively adjustable bandwidth. The absorber consists of a vertically stacked three-layer structure with target-shaped resonant layers. Its absorption bandwidth is dynamically controlled, exhibiting ultra-broadband characteristics in the metallic phase. The absorber achieves over 90% absorption from 1.8 to 31.7 THz, with a relative bandwidth of 178%. In the insulating phase, the device transforms into a narrowband absorber, showing a precise absorption peak within the 0 to 20 THz frequency range. Notably, this absorber demonstrates polarization-insensitive and wide-angle absorption properties, making it suitable for different application scenarios. Compared to traditional broadband absorbers, the absorber proposed in this study features an ultra-wide absorption bandwidth and switchable operating modes, enhancing its flexibility and adaptability. The excellent performance of the absorber indicates its suitability for various applications, such as sixth-generation (6G) wireless communication, security detection, imaging, military stealth technology, and energy harvesting.