Terahertz Detectors Based on Carbon Nanomaterials

Abstract Various applications of terahertz (THz) radiation and the importance to fundamental science make the development of THz technology one of the key areas in modern applied physics. THz detectors are a key component of THz technology, whose performance determines the application market. One feasible approach to fabricate high performance THz detectors is to utilize carbon nanomaterials, particularly, carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and graphene. Their novel thermal, optical, and electronic properties make them promising in the field of THz technology. In this review, based on a brief introduction of the unique properties of graphene and CNTs, the fundamental principles of thermal, electronic, and photonic effects in carbon‐based THz detection are thoroughly discussed, together with the detailed summary of major progresses in the past decades. Finally, the challenges and opportunity of such THz detectors are presented from three aspects of precise preparation of carbon nanomaterials, mechanism of THz detectors and device technology.