We demonstrate principal limitations of standard Time Domain Spectroscopy based on a broadband THz pulse for the detection and identification of substance using paper napkins as a sample. To avoid these limitations we propose a new high effective algorithm for this purpose. We demonstrate its applicability in realistic and simulated situation for various substances under consideration. The interaction of a THz pulse with a disordered layered structure was simulated in order to show the influence of the disordered layers on the spectral characteristics of the transmitted and reflected signals. Spectral characteristics of these signals were analyzed in a direct comparison with the spectrum of the incident pulse as well as by means of Spectral Dynamics Analysis method and integral correlation criteria. The efficiency of the detection and identification method, based on integral correlation and likeness criteria, is confirmed on the basis of computer simulation. To demonstrate the possibilities of the integral correlation criteria in real experiment, they were applied for the identification of explosive HMX in the reflection mode.

Date Published: 21 October 2015
PDF: 19 pages
Proc. SPIE 9652, Optics and Photonics for Counterterrorism, Crime Fighting, and Defence XI; and Optical Materials and Biomaterials in Security and Defence Systems Technology XII, 96520B (21 October 2015); doi: 10.1117/12.2195809

Published in SPIE Proceedings Vol. 9652:
Optics and Photonics for Counterterrorism, Crime Fighting, and Defence XI; and Optical Materials and Biomaterials in Security and Defence Systems Technology XII
Roberto Zamboni; Douglas Burgess; Gari Owen; François Kajzar; Attila A. Szep; Harbinder Rana, Editor(s)