THz detection cell for sub-wavelength bio-molecular sensing

Design rules for a novel terahertz (THz) detection cell are presented that offer the potential for the first-time development of a microscope-system capable of collecting THz-frequency (e.g., 0.3-1.0 THz) spectroscopic signatures directly from microscopic targets such as bio-molecules. The proposed technological approach utilizes the sequential transfer of single electrons through a system of coupled quantum dots that has been designed to facilitate a statistically-based measurement of the radiation intensity. This paper focuses on the design of a suitable single-electron source (SES) that allows for required injection characteristics for a previously defined THz radiation detection cell (THz RDC).