InGaAs/InAlAs superlattice detector for THz radiation

We report the use of an InGaAs/InAlAs superlattice for detection of THz radiation pulses generated by a free-electron-laser (FELIX). The detector showed a response corresponding to a reduction of the direct current through the superlattice. The current reduction is attributed to the THz-field induced modulation of Bloch oscillations performed by miniband electrons. The detector response was measured in a frequency range between 4 and 12 THz and showed strong minima at the frequencies of infrared active transverse optic phonons.