Flexible tunable terahertz metasurface sensor based on single-walled carbon nanotubes

Research on terahertz (THz) modulation plays a vital role in advancing the development of THz devices. Nevertheless, there remain significant challenges in developing portable devices capable of real-time modulation. Here, we design and fabricate a flexible tunable THz metasurface sensor using single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). This sensor has excellent tensile strength and flexibility, allowing for dynamic control of THz waves through mechanical deformation. The unique properties of SWCNTs make them highly suitable for sensing applications. Results show that the device achieves a 50 GHz tuning range under only 9% strain and exhibits a limit of detection (LOD) of 3.3 mM for<i>γ</i>-aminobutyric acid (GABA). These results indicate the vast potential of SWCNT-based metasurfaces in THz wave manipulation and sensing applications.