Optimization of a prism coupler for a THz photonic integrated metamaterial Si waveguide: simulation and experiment

The use of terahertz radiation to create data transmission systems with ultra-high transfer rate still remains a kind of terra incognita of our time. The main difficulty in using terahertz radiation for these purposes is associated with high losses in standard metal waveguides at these frequencies. One of the possible solutions is the use of all-dielectric waveguides. So, the coupling waveguides of this type with other devices is an actual and scientifically significant task. In this paper we present the results of simulating and measuring the insertion loss of a coupling prism interface for a terahertz waveguide based on metamaterial high resistive silicon platform. The obtained S21 parameter value of –0.5 dB for a coupler apex width of 90 µm and a coupler length of 3500 µm at frequency of 0.15 THz is in good agreement with the experimentally measured one. These devises will be a part of the future next-generation terahertz data communication system with a high data transfer rate.