Objective The ERC Advanced grant ‘TOSCA’ (grant number: 247375) focussed on the development of terahertz (THz) frequency science and technology, and in particular, investigated the electronic and photonic engineering of THz quantum cascade lasers (QCLs), and the underlying physics of these sophisticated devices. This Proof of Concept grant (THEMIS) builds on this pioneering research, and in particular on our breakthrough developments in QCL self-mixing imaging. We will increase the technology readiness level of the patented optical-bench-based THz QCL systems developed under ‘TOSCA’, and develop a demonstrator suitable for translation of this technology to industrial end-users. The focus is on delivering a compact, inexpensive, THz frequency imaging system, which exploits self-mixing technology to deliver amplitude- and phase-resolved images whilst dispensing with an external detector. Specific objectives are to: construct a compact and robust optical-breadboard-based self-mixing system; demonstrate the technology outside the laboratory environment, both in the field with commercial end-users, and at conferences/workshops/trade shows; and, evaluate opportunities for THz self-mixing imaging, identifying end-user applications.To achieve this, we will engineer our current optical-bench-based technology onto a robust and compact optical breadboard with a cryogen-free cooler, and develop integrated ‘plug-and-play’ electronics and software for image reconstruction. The complete system will be suitable for transport to commercial partners, allowing demonstration and evaluation of the technology. Furthermore, we will incorporate a near-field microscopy capability, enabling sub-micron THz imaging – more than 100 times smaller than the THz free-space wavelength. By the end of the programme, we will have identified an exploitation path by liaising directly with THz instrument manufacturers and with at least one targeted end-user Fields of science social sciencesmedia and communicationsgraphic designnatural sciencesphysical scienceselectromagnetism and electronicsoptoelectronicsnatural sciencesphysical sciencesquantum physicsquantum optics Programme(s) H2020-EU.1.1. - EXCELLENT SCIENCE - European Research Council (ERC) Main Programme Topic(s) ERC-PoC-2016 - ERC-Proof of Concept-2016 Call for proposal ERC-2016-PoC See other projects for this call Funding Scheme ERC-POC - Proof of Concept Grant Host institution UNIVERSITY OF LEEDS Net EU contribution € 149 580,00 Address WOODHOUSE LANE LS2 9JT Leeds United Kingdom See on map Region Yorkshire and the Humber West Yorkshire Leeds Activity type Higher or Secondary Education Establishments Links Contact the organisation Opens in new window Website Opens in new window Participation in EU R&I programmes Opens in new window HORIZON collaboration network Opens in new window Total cost € 149 580,00 Beneficiaries (1) Sort alphabetically Sort by Net EU contribution Expand all Collapse all UNIVERSITY OF LEEDS United Kingdom Net EU contribution € 149 580,00 Address WOODHOUSE LANE LS2 9JT Leeds See on map Region Yorkshire and the Humber West Yorkshire Leeds Activity type Higher or Secondary Education Establishments Links Contact the organisation Opens in new window Website Opens in new window Participation in EU R&I programmes Opens in new window HORIZON collaboration network Opens in new window Total cost € 149 580,00
