We describe the latest progress on two new terahertz (THz) prototype systems for security screening applications. Firstly, we show a terahertz stand-off detection system, working at a distance of 0.5 m, and with a dynamic range of ~60 dB. This allows the measurement of spectral features from 0.1 to 2.5 THz. Using this prototype, we present the reflection spectrum of an explosive material collected at 0.5m stand-off and compare it with the predicted spectrum. Secondly, a hand held wand using multiple terahertz detectors has been assembled. This resembles a metal detector wand in operation, and is designed for detecting explosives as well as both metallic and non-metallic weapons hidden under clothing or possibly in bags. The first data from this system is presented, showing that objects can be distinguished using their spectral features.

Date Published: 16 December 2004
PDF: 8 pages
Proc. SPIE 5616, Optics and Photonics for Counterterrorism and Crime Fighting, (16 December 2004); doi: 10.1117/12.573603

Published in SPIE Proceedings Vol. 5616:
Optics and Photonics for Counterterrorism and Crime Fighting
Tim P. Donaldson; Colin Lewis, Editor(s)