Theoretical Analysis of Terahertz Frequency Multiplier Based on Semiconductor Superlattices

Abstract

We propose a terahertz frequency multiplier based on high order harmonic generation in a GaAs-based miniband superlattice driven by an electric field. The performance of the frequency multiplier is analyzed using the balance equation approach, which incorporates momentum and energy relaxation processes at different lattice temperatures. It is found that the generated high-order harmonic power is sensitive to temperature changes. The peak power appears around resonance between driving terahertz frequency and intrinsic Bloch frequency. In the presence of the magnetic field, the peak power shifts towards a stronger static electric field region. The simulated results about the dependence of the second and third harmonic powers on a DC electric field are in qualitative consistence with the experiments. The proposed terahertz frequency multiplier based on semiconductor superlattice, being compact and efficient, is provided as a good candidate for terahertz wave generation.