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The Cockcroft Institute

THz Lab

THz Lab

The THz lab is primarily used to study the interaction between electron beams and laser-generated terahertz (THz) radiation – enabling new approaches to electron bunch diagnostics and compact schemes for accelerating electrons to MeV energies. It is located in a bespoke, radiation-shielded bunker and its capabilities support a broad range of applications, including:

  • Materials and device testing for THz applications (e.g. sources, detectors and waveguides)
  • Sample irradiation
  • Materials characterisation using advanced tools such as ultrafast electron diffraction

Application Areas

The facility supports a range of research and development activities, including:

  • THz systems development
  • Photonics and optoelectronics development
  • Materials characterisation

Technical Details

Key specifications of the electron beam and laser systems:

  • Electron beam: 100 keV, available in continuous or pulsed modes, with pulses down to ultrafast timescales
  • Laser: regeneratively-amplified Ti:Sapphire system
    • 8 mJ pulse energy
    • 1 kHz repetition rate
    • 800 nm central wavelength
    • 40 fs pulse duration

THz Acceleration Group

The THz Acceleration Group at the Cockcroft Institute investigates novel concepts for particle acceleration by combining picosecond THz sources with dielectric and metallic structures.

  • The group is comprised of physicists and engineers from Lancaster University, the University of Manchester, and STFC’s Accelerator Science and Technology Centre.
  • More information on the group’s work can be found at: https://www.thzag.uk/

Work With Us

researcher setting up optics in the terrahertz bunker

We're happy to work with industry and offer a range of collaboration mechanisms designed to suit your needs — from small, focused projects to large-scale programmes. Funding is also available to support collaborative work with industry partners. Get in touch via the link below to find out more.

Get In Touch