Nonlinear Dielectric Metasurfaces for Terahertz Applications

The terahertz (THz) region of the electromagnetic spectrum, spanning from 0.1 to 30 THz, represents a prospering area in photonics, with transformative applications in imaging, communications, and material analysis. However, the development of efficient and compact THz sources has long been hampered by intrinsic material limitations, inefficient conversion processes, and complex phase-matching requirements. Recent breakthroughs in nonlinear optical mechanisms, resonant metasurface engineering, and advances in the fabrication processes for materials such as lithium niobate (LN) and aluminum gallium arsenide (AlGaAs) have paved the way for innovative THz generation techniques. This review article explores the latest theoretical advances, together with key experimental results and outlines perspectives for future developments.