Theory and measurements of harmonic generation in semiconductor superlattices with applications in the 100 GHz to 1 THz range

This manuscript describes harmonic generation in semiconductor superlattices, starting from a nonequilibrium Green's functions input to relaxation rate-type analytical approximations for the Boltzmann equation in which imperfections in the structure lead to asymmetric current flow and scattering processes under forward and reverse bias. The resulting current-voltage curves and the predicted consequences on harmonic generation, notably the development of even harmonics, are in good agreement with experiments. Significant output for frequencies close to 1 THz (7th harmonic) at room temperature, after excitation by a 141-GHz input signal, demonstrate the potential of superlattice devices for gigahertz to terahertz applications.