Scientists have made a remarkable advance in manipulating light by embedding exotic “topological insulator” materials into nanostructured resonators to generate both even and odd terahertz (THz) frequencies through a process called high-order harmonic generation. This development brings us one step closer to devices that operate at terahertz speeds — frequencies between microwaves and infrared — potentially powering ultra-fast wireless communications, high-resolution sensors and next-generation imaging technologies.
The key lies in these topological insulators: materials that behave as insulators in their bulk but conduct electricity on their surface in a robust way. By integrating them into resonators at nanometre scale, the research team was able to drive conversion of input light into a spectrum of terahertz frequencies, including ones that were previously difficult to access. The ability to generate both even and odd harmonics means greater control over the light signal, which is critical for applications where precision is paramount.
What makes this relevant for tech companies and innovation ecosystems is the potential ripple-effect across several fields. For instance, future wireless systems may exploit terahertz frequencies for ultra-high data-rate transmission; imaging systems might use them for non-invasive scanning or security; sensor systems in industry and infrastructure could become far more sensitive and compact. Moreover, turning advanced physics into practical devices will involve new materials, new manufacturing methods and new system integration — opportunities both for research-intensive firms and for regional clusters seeking to build advantage.
For regions and organisations focused on innovation-led development, this breakthrough signals that we are entering another wave of “materials + photonic systems” that will underpin what comes after Moore’s Law. It suggests that investment in specialised photonics infrastructure, nanofabrication capabilities, and local partnerships between academia and industry could pay off. In short: the frontier is shifting, and local ecosystems that align with it can capture value.
