A Perspective on Terahertz Next-Generation Wireless Communications

Abstract

In the past year, fifth-generation (5G) wireless technology has seen dramatic growth, spurred on by the continuing demand for faster data communications with lower latency. At the same time, many researchers argue that 5G will be inadequate in a short time, given the explosive growth of machine connectivity, such as the Internet-of-Things (IoT). This has prompted many to question what comes after 5G. The obvious answer is sixth-generation (6G), however, the substance of 6G is still very much undefined, leaving much to the imagination in terms of real-world implementation. What is clear, however, is that the next generation will likely involve the use of terahertz frequency (0.1–10 THz) electromagnetic waves. Here, we review recent research in terahertz wireless communications and technology, focusing on three broad topic classes: the terahertz channel, terahertz devices, and space-based terahertz system considerations. In all of these, we describe the nature of the research, the specific challenges involved, and current research findings. We conclude by providing a brief perspective on the path forward.

Ultra-Wideband Terahertz Channel Propagation Measurements from 500 to 750 GHz

“…This extraordinary need for higher data rates has led the research community in exploring parts of the EM (Electromagnetic) spectrum that can allow future expectations to be met. The THz band (0.1-10) has been identified as a candidate for major advances in the fields of wireless mobile communications such as high-speed Local Area Networks (LANs), nano-machine communications in nano-networks, chip-to-chip connectivity and security [2]- [5]. It holds several advantages such as high-speed data transmission, negligible latencies and terabit-per-second (Tbps) throughput.…”

“…The specific attenuation due to atmospheric gases is given in (1) where γ and γ ω are the specific attenuations resulting from the effects of water vapor and oxygen. N"(f) is the imaginary part of the complex refractivity given in (2).…”

Towards Fingerprint Spoofing Detection in the Terahertz Range

“…In the past decade, terahertz (THz) radiation within the range of 0.1–3 THz has been used in a growing number of applications, including explosive detections [ 30 ], security screening [ 31 , 32 ], nondestructive evaluation [ 33 ], telecommunication [ 34 ] and biomedical investigations [ 35 , 36 , 37 , 38 , 39 , 40 , 41 , 42 ]. Terahertz radiation penetrates a variety of nonpolar non-conducting materials and is inherently safe for living tissues and DNA, because it is not ionizing thanks to low photon energy.…”

6G Ecosystem: Current Status and Future Perspective

“…In [52,156,157], the authors proposed several solutions such as multi-hop service, recommendations for the front, mid, and backhaul, 3D coverage through drones and satellites, and spectrum co-existence to bridge gap in connectivity. [111,113,153,132] [ 57,26] THz Communication…”

“…In [153], the authors reviewed the recent trends in THz communication, its challenges, and future research directions with respect to THz devices, THz channel, and space-based THz systems. In [57]…”