Simulation of spatiotemporal terahertz pulse shaping in 3-D using conductive apertures of finite thickness

The need for short, high-frequency pulses for spectroscopy and imaging has motivated the search for methods to shape these pulses. Conductive apertures are used for spatiotemporal shaping of terahertz pulses. Computer simulation can facilitate the design of such apertures by allowing one to evaluate different configurations and their related parameters. Three-dimensional simulations using the finite-difference time-domain method with techniques described make this possible without the need for extraordinary computer resources. The accuracy of this method is confirmed by comparison with previously published experimental data. The versatility of the method is demonstrated by the simulation of apertures of various shapes and sizes.