Parallel temporal signal processing enabled by polarization-multiplexed programmable THz metasurfaces

Under the trends of multifunctionality, tunability, and compactness in modern wave -based signal processors, in this paper, we propose a polarization-multiplexed graphene-based metasurface to realize distinct mathematical operators on the parallel time-domain channels enabled by vertical and horizontal polarizations. The designed metasurface is composed of two perpendicularly-oriented graphene strips for each of which the chemical potential can be dynamically tuned through a DC biasing circuit. The programmable metasurface exhibits two orthogonal channels through which the time-domain input signals are elaborately processed by separate mathematical functions. Several illustrative examples are presented demonstrating that the proposed device can operate on different time-domain analog computing modes such as fractional-order differentiator and phaser at the same time. The strategy introduced in this paper will enable real-time parallel temporal analog computing and has potentially essential applications in terahertz spectroscopy architectures, communication systems, and computing technologies.(c) 2022 Optica Publishing Group under the terms of the Optica Open Access Publishing Agreement