On-Chip Characterization of High-Loss Liquids Between 750 and 1100 GHz

Terahertz spectroscopy is a promising tool for analyzing the picosecond dynamics of biomolecules, which is influenced by surrounding water molecules. However, water causes extreme losses to terahertz signals, preventing sensitive measurements at this frequency range. Here, we present sensitive on-chip terahertz spectroscopy of highly lossy aqueous solutions using a vector network analyzer, contact probes, and a coplanar waveguide with a 0.1-mm-wide microfluidic channel. The complex permittivities of various deionized water/isopropyl alcohol concentration are extracted from a known reference measurement across the frequency range 750-1100 GHz and agrees well with literature data. The results prove the presented method as a high-sensitive approach for on-chip terahertz spectroscopy of high-loss liquids, capable of resolving the permittivity of water.

Automated summary

Terahertz spectroscopy is a promising tool for analyzing the dynamics of biomolecules, but water molecules cause signal losses, hindering sensitive measurements. This study presents a high-sensitive approach for on-chip terahertz spectroscopy of high-loss liquids, capable of resolving the permittivity of water.