What’s happening?
Ultra-fast 6G research at Adelaide University is progressing from theory to physical hardware through a partnership centred on advanced manufacturing.
The Terahertz Engineering Laboratory is working with the Australian National Fabrication Facility SA to build devices that operate using terahertz waves.
These frequencies sit between microwaves and infrared light in the electromagnetic spectrum. Researchers say this part of the spectrum has only recently become accessible due to advances in engineering and manufacturing.
The work focuses on translating terahertz concepts into devices that can be built with consistency, accuracy, and repeatability.
Why it matters
For future wireless systems, speed alone is not enough. Devices must also be reliable, manufacturable, and precise.
TEL Group Leader Professor Withawat Withayachumnankul said fabrication is central to turning terahertz ideas into practical technology.
“We’re exploring devices that could enable wireless data rates above one terabit per second across several kilometres,” he said.
Local impact
The collaboration is based at Mawson Lakes, where specialised fabrication facilities support university-led research.
TEL researchers focus on device design and measurement, while ANFF-SA specialists assist with manufacturing, refinement, and troubleshooting of components.
The partnership strengthens South Australia’s role in precision fabrication and next-generation wireless research.
By the numbers
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Wireless data rates above one terabit per second are being targeted using terahertz technology.
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Fabrication relies on ANFF-SA facilities valued at approximately $30 million.
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Silicon structures are produced at micron scale to meet strict performance requirements.
Zoom in
Fabrication techniques used in the collaboration include photolithography and deep reactive ion etching.
These processes allow researchers to create intricate silicon structures, including through-silicon vias, which are required for high-performance sensing and communication devices.
Such precision enables terahertz antennas and components to perform as designed once integrated into larger systems.
Zoom out
ANFF-SA Microfabrication Team Lead Dr Jing-Ho Pai said precision underpins next-generation communication technology.
“These silicon components are extremely precise, often perforated with patterns just a few microns wide,” he said.
“This level of detail is vital for achieving the performance required for next-generation communication systems.”
What to look for next?
The devices being developed through this fabrication-focused collaboration are expected to form part of the foundation for 6G networks.
“With their vast bandwidth, sensing capabilities and ultra-low latency, terahertz waves are set to become a cornerstone of future telecommunications.”