- Mayer, Rafael A;
- Wehmeier, Lukas;
- Torquato, Mattheus;
- Chen, Xinzhong;
- Feres, Flavio H;
- Maia, Francisco CB;
- Obst, Maximilian;
- Kaps, Felix G;
- Luferau, Andrei;
- Klopf, J Michael;
- Corder, Stephanie N Gilbert;
- Bechtel, Hans A;
- González, Juan C;
- Viana, Emilson R;
- Eng, Lukas M;
- Kehr, Susanne C;
- Freitas, Raul O;
- Barcelos, Ingrid D
Polaritons, i.e., hybrid quasi-particles of light and matter resonances, have been extensively investigated due to their potential to enhance light-matter interactions. Although polaritonic applications thrive in the mid-infrared range, their extension to the terahertz (THz) range remains limited. Here, we present paratellurite (α-TeO2) nanowires, a versatile material acting as a platform for different types of phonon polaritons. Utilizing synchrotron infrared nanospectroscopy from 10 to 24 THz, we uncover the polaritonic properties of α-TeO2 nanowires, showcasing their dual functionality as both a Fabry-Pérot cavity and a waveguide for surface phonon polaritons. Furthermore, near-field measurements with a free-electron laser as a THz source reveal a localized optical contrast down to 5.5 THz, an indication of hyperbolic bands. Our findings complement the repertoire of polaritonic materials, with significant implications for advancing THz technologies.