Research Progress on the Application of Metasurfaces in Terahertz
Super-Resolution Imaging
LI Guang-ming1, 2, 3, GE Hong-yi1, 2, 3, JIANG Yu-ying1, 2, 4*, ZHANG Yuan1, 2, 3*, SUN Qing-cheng1, 2, 3, ZHENG Hui-fang1, 2, 3, LI Xing1, 2, 3
1. Key Laboratory of Grain Information Processing and Control, Henan University of Technology, Ministry of Education, Zhengzhou 450001, China
2. Henan Provincial Key Laboratory of Grain Photoelectric Detection and Control, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou 450001, China
3. School of Information Science and Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou 450001, China
4. School of Artificial Intelligence and Big Data, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou 450001, China
Abstract：Terahertz (THz) radiation, characterized by high penetrability, low energy, and unique fingerprint spectra, has extensive applications in nondestructive testing, biomedical imaging, security screening, and communications. However, traditional THz imaging systems are constrained by the long wavelength of THz waves and the scarcity of natural materials with high transmittance in this spectral range, resulting in limitations in resolution and sensitivity. These shortcomings hinder their ability to meet the technological demands of high-precision and trace-level detection.Metasurfaces, composed of subwavelength-scale structural units, enable precise control of THz wave propagation by modulating electromagnetic waves' phase, amplitude, and polarization. This capability allows them to overcome the diffraction limit of conventional optical systems, offering a viable solution for THz super-resolution imaging. This paper reviews the latest advancements in THz super-resolution imaging using metasurfaces, focusing on various structural types' design principles and application performance. Resonant structures enhance local fields at specific frequencies, enabling high-contrast imaging. Gradient-phase structures guide THz waves with precision through phase gradients. Multilayer metasurfaces leverage stacked-layer designs to achieve complex phase and amplitude modulation. Subwavelength gratings offer superior wavefront control, improving super-resolution imaging. Meanwhile, metamaterial reflective arrays achieve high-resolution wavefront modulation without needing lenses. Key design considerations for high-efficiency THz metasurfaces include structural design strategies, material selection, and precise phase and amplitude modulation techniques. The potential of optimized designs and novel materials in enhancing THz imaging performance and expanding its applications is also analyzed. Future research directions are proposed to address existing challenges in THz metasurface technology, such as complex fabrication processes, limited system compatibility, and material response constraints. These include: (1) developing novel low-loss materials to improve transmission efficiency and phase control; (2) integrating artificial intelligence to optimize metasurface design and performance; and (3) advancing system integration and miniaturization to facilitate the development of portable THz imaging devices for applications in high-precision imaging, medical diagnostics, and security screening. With continuous progress in new materials, intelligent design methodologies, and miniaturization technologies, THz metasurfaces are expected to achieve broader applications. Their advancement will drive the widespread adoption of high-precision imaging and portable devices, fostering new opportunities for scientific discovery and industrial innovation.
李广明，葛宏义，蒋玉英，张 元，孙庆成，郑慧芳，李 兴. 超表面在太赫兹超分辨率成像中的应用研究进展[J]. 光谱学与光谱分析, 2025, 45(08): 2101-2109.
LI Guang-ming, GE Hong-yi, JIANG Yu-ying, ZHANG Yuan, SUN Qing-cheng, ZHENG Hui-fang, LI Xing. Research Progress on the Application of Metasurfaces in Terahertz
Super-Resolution Imaging. SPECTROSCOPY AND SPECTRAL ANALYSIS, 2025, 45(08): 2101-2109.
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