Proposed THz Detector Based on Whispering Gallery Modes Lithium Niobate Microdisk Optical Resonator

In this study we propose a potential application of LiNbO3 microdiscs as THz radiation detector. Due to lithium niobate high absorption in the THz range, LiNbO3 microdiscs are good candidates for converting electromagnetic radiation in heat. The high temperature sensitivity of Whispering Gallery Mode microdisc resonators can allow high precision measurements of the THz radiation absorbed power. The dependence of maximum sensitivity and acquisition rate versus the sensor thickness are discussed, as well as the possibility to use different materials. Finally, the possible interference of the pyroelectric effect on the sensor capabilities is also discussed.