What’s happening?
Adelaide University researchers are collaborating with fabrication specialists to advance terahertz technology for 6G.
The Terahertz Engineering Laboratory is working alongside the Australian National Fabrication Facility SA at Mawson Lakes.
Together, they are designing and building devices that use terahertz waves.
Why it matters
The collaboration aims to move terahertz research into reliable hardware for future wireless systems.
Professor Withawat Withayachumnankul said early fabrication input is essential.
“Their advice helps us to navigate challenges early in the design stage, ensuring our devices can be manufactured reliably and with the precision required,” he said.
Local impact
The partnership supports advanced research and fabrication capability in South Australia.
Both teams contribute specialist knowledge throughout design and manufacturing.
By the numbers
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Researchers are developing terahertz devices capable of data rates above one terabit per second.
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ANFF-SA contributes fabrication facilities valued at about $30 million.
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Components are produced with features just a few microns wide.
Zoom in
Fabrication includes terahertz antennas and silicon components created using specialised processes.
Through-silicon vias are among the structures produced for sensing and communication.
Zoom out
Dr Jing-Ho Pai said the work highlights shared expertise.
“Working closely with the research team, we are exploring fabrication options for these complex structures, ensuring reliability at every step,” he said.
What to look for next?
The hardware is expected to underpin 6G networks.
“The work being done today at Adelaide University will help unlock wireless speeds vastly beyond what is possible today.”
