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Researchers at Linköping University in Sweden have made a significant breakthrough in the field of terahertz waves. In a study published in the journal Advanced Science, they demonstrated the ability to tune the transmission of terahertz light through an aerogel made of cellulose and a conducting polymer. This discovery opens up a world of possibilities for the use of terahertz waves in various applications, such as next-generation medical imaging and communication. Terahertz waves fall within a range that lies between microwaves and infrared light on the electromagnetic spectrum. With their high frequency, they offer great potential in space exploration, security technology, communication assistants, and other areas

In medical imaging, terahertz waves can even serve as a viable substitute for X-ray examinations, as they can pass through non-conductive materials without causing harm. Despite the tremendous potential, there are still technological challenges that need to be overcome before terahertz signals can be widely used. Efficient generation of terahertz radiation and the availability of materials that can receive and adjust the transmission of these waves are two major obstacles. The researchers at Linköping University have developed a material that can control the absorption of terahertz signals through a redox reaction. This material, known as an aerogel, is one of the lightest solid materials in the world. With its adjustable filter-like properties, it can selectively absorb or allow the passage of terahertz light, making it ideal for long-range signals from space or radar signals. The aerogel is composed of a conducting polymer called PEDOT:PSS and cellulose, and it has been specifically designed for outdoor applications

It is both hydrophobic (water-repellent) and can be naturally defrosted by sunlight. Conducting polymers like PEDOT:PSS offer several advantages over other materials when creating tunable materials. They are biocompatible, durable, and highly tunable due to their ability to adjust the charge density within the material. Cellulose, on the other hand, is a renewable material with relatively low production costs compared to similar materials, making it an excellent choice for sustainable applications. The researchers found that the transmission of terahertz waves in a broad frequency range could be regulated between approximately 13% and 91%, providing a significant modulation range. This indicates the potential for precise control and manipulation of terahertz signals for various applications. Overall, the discovery made by the Linköping researchers represents a major advancement in the field of terahertz waves

By demonstrating the tunability of terahertz transmission through their cellulose-based aerogel, they have unlocked new opportunities for the use of these waves in areas such as medical imaging, communication, and space exploration.