Grant: Research Tools and Instruments

Terahertz time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) is widely recognized as a unique tool for understanding the conductivity of semiconductors, metals and superconductors. It is also increasingly useful in industrial applications, from monitoring automotive paint coatings during manufacturing to characterizing materials for use in 6G wireless systems. It plays an indispensable role in the collaborative research of the applicants, which is aimed at understanding the fundamental properties of superconductors and other quantum materials. It is also essential for the individual research program of one of the applicants (Dodge), who specializes in THz-TDS and uses it both to understand quantum materials and to develop industrial applications. The proposed equipment is a commercial THz-TDS spectrometer that will replace a system that has stopped functioning due to a laser failure. This disruption has stalled multiple research projects and hindered the progress of highly-qualified personnel (HQP) who are being trained by both applicants. It is the only system of its kind in its region and is required for the applicants to continue their NSERC-funded research. The new equipment offers better performance and acquisition speed, and it is based on newer laser technology that is expected to have a much longer useful lifetime than the previous equipment. This equipment will support several scientific projects. The applicants will use it to evaluate the limits that quantum mechanics places on resistive heating in metals, develop the theory of high-temperature superconductivity, and investigate the rate of electron-electron scattering in metals at low temperatures. The equipment will also provide opportunities for industrial collaborations and will support the development of open-source research software. The new equipment will enhance the quality and extent of hands-on student training in optics, statistical analysis, signal processing, electromagnetic properties of matter, software development, superconductivity, semiconductor physics, low-temperature physics, and more. This training will provide marketable skills and opportunities for employment in various fields, from optical engineering to quantum computing. By funding this equipment, NSERC will be supporting research that will have important scientific, industrial, and social impact. It will enable groundbreaking research on the quantum-mechanical properties of superconductors, and it will provide collaborative opportunities for industry to explore new applications of terahertz technology. It will support training of highly qualified personnel for technical jobs that play an important role in Canadian society. The benefits to Canada will include scientific recognition, technological development, and training of highly qualified personnel for jobs in technological sectors.