Terahertz quantum cascade (QC) lasers are well suited for the exploration of active metamaterial concepts in the terahertz frequency range. Terahertz composite right/left handed (CRLH) transmission line metamaterials can be integrated with quantum cascade laser gainmaterial in order to compensate for losses, and enable laser waveguides with new functionality. In particular, we consider the use of metamaterial transmission lines as travelling wave antennas. After presenting the characteristics of a 2.5 THz quantum-cascade laser, calculated radiation characteristics and beam patterns for a leaky-wave antenna based upon a balanced 1D CRLH transmission line waveguide are shown.
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