title: Scaling submillimeter single-cycle transients toward megavolts per centimeter field strength via optical rectification in the organic crystal OH1.
abstract: We present the generation of high-power single-cycle terahertz (THz) pulses in the organic salt crystal 2-[3-(4-hydroxystyryl)-5.5-dimethylcyclohex-2-enylidene]malononitrile or OH1. Broadband THz radiation with a central frequency of 1.5 THz (λ(c)=200 μm) and high electric field strength of 440 kV/cm is produced by optical rectification driven by the signal of a powerful femtosecond optical parametric amplifier. A 1.5% pump to THz energy conversion efficiency is reported, and pulse energy stability better than 1% RMS is achieved. An approach toward the realization of higher field strength is discussed.
authors.affiliation: Paul Scherrer Institute, 5232 Villigen, Switzerland. clemens.ruchert@psi.ch
authors.forename: Clemens
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Ruchert
authors.forename: Carlo
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Vicario
authors.forename: Christoph P
authors.initials: CP
authors.lastname: Hauri