Optically Controlled THz Metamaterial Modulators

Optically controlled amplitude and phase modulators based on split ring resonator (SRR) metamaterials at THz frequencies were simulated, fabricated and measured. Split ring resonator aluminium structures were patterned on High Resistivity Float Zone (HR-FZ) Silicon and measured with the structures excited by continuous wave (CW) THz radiation using a Vector Network Analyser (VNA) in the frequency range between 0.75 and 1.1 THz. Extreme amplitude modulation depths and phase shift were observed when the structures were under optical illumination with CW white light.