Exploring new application fields of liquid crystals in millimeter-wave and THz-wave regions

Abstract

Millimeter-wave and THz-wave regions are positioned between radio frequencies and optics within the broader electromagnetic wave spectra, which had long remained unexplored. However, they have now become crucial for wireless communication technology due to the rapid advancement of mobile communication systems. Unlike the radio frequency region, beam propagation control devices are essential for utilizing these high-frequency regions. Among many functional materials capable of achieving such devices, liquid crystals (LCs) are primary candidates due to their low loss and low power consumption. Although this potential of LCs was not recognized decades ago, another potential of LCs has been steadily investigated alongside the shining LC display development.