Room temperature terahertz phase shifter based on magnetically controlled birefringence in liquid crystals

We present the use of magnetically controlled birefringence in a nematic liquid crystal cell for phase shifting of electromagnetic waves in the range of terahertz frequencies. This device can be operated at room temperature. A maximum phase shift of 141degrees has been demonstrated at 1.025 THz and the results are in good agreement with theoretical predictions. (C) 2003 American Institute of Physics.