Radiation Model for Terahertz Transmission-Line Metamaterial Quantum-Cascade Lasers

We present the use of the cavity antenna model in predicting the radiative loss, far-field polarization and far-field beam patterns of terahertz quantum-cascade (QC) lasers. Metal–metal waveguide QC-lasers, transmission-line metamaterial QC-lasers, and leaky-wave metamaterial antennas are considered. Comparison of the fundamental and first higher order lateral mode in a metal-metal waveguide QC-laser shows distinct differences in the radiation characteristics. Full-wave finite-element simulations, cavity model predictions and measurements of far-field beam patterns are compared for a one-dimensional leaky-wave antenna. Lastly, an active leaky-wave metamaterial antenna with full backward to forward wave beam steering is proposed and analyzed using the cavity antenna model.