Dynamic large-array terahertz imaging display based on high-performance 1D/2D tellurium homojunction modulators

Mixed-dimensional van der Waals systems could improve terahertz modulators’ performance by utilizing the advantages of different dimensional materials. However, the reported available mixed-dimensional heterojunctions using two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional materials usually sacrifice the modulation speed to realize a higher modulation depth. Here, we creatively integrate one-dimensional (1D) nanowires with 2D nanofilms to construct the novel mixed-dimensional tellurium (Te) homojunction and achieve optimal indices with an ultrahigh modulation depth and a shorter carrier lifetime. In addition, a Te-based large-array imaging element was fabricated to successfully reproduce the painting colors under specific pump conditions as well as the dynamic multicolor display. Further measurements with the introduction of metamaterials prove that the required energy consumption can be significantly reduced by one order of magnitude. Our proposed 1D/2D integration strategy opens a new way to build high-performance terahertz functional devices and greatly expands the application fields of Te nanomaterials.