Terahertz digital coding angular arrays based on liquid crystal for vortex beam generation

Abstract

Over the past decade, terahertz (THz) technology has demonstrated significant potential to transform next-generation wireless communication and imaging systems. A key challenge, however, lies in the lack of compact, flexibly tunable THz beam-forming devices with sufficient functionality and integration. In this work, we introduce a broadband, programmable THz vortex beam angular array that utilizes a liquid crystal platform to dynamically adjust vortex modes. The device supports five distinct topological charge states within a single structure, enabling versatile and convenient THz vortex beam control. Beam-shaping characteristics are rigorously analyzed both theoretically and experimentally. By employing digital coding to control the vortex state, the device minimizes power supply complexity. This development advances the realization of integrated, reconfigurable structured beam devices in the THz regime, with promising applications in terahertz communications and high-resolution imaging.