Analysis of the THz response of a simple periodic graphite-based structure

We report the observation of the dichroism effect in simple wire grid structures made of graphite on a paper substrate, i.e. we investigate the feasibility of drawing polarizers for the THz band using conventional graphite-based lead pencils. The displacement of the maximum frequency of the selective absorption phenomenon by varying the wire pitch hints at a polarizing behavior. Measurements of the maximum and minimum of transmission efficiency, extinction ratio and degree of polarization are carried out with a transmission fiber THz-TDS setup. Experimental results show a 9 dB extinction ratio for an inexpensive (<1$) home-made component. (C) 2014 Optical Society of America