In less than a decade, this previously hidden section of the electromagnetic spectrum has caught the imagination of scientists around the world.

T-rays are non-ionizing and do not require heavy lead shielding, and they can be focused, creating much sharper pictures. They can give spectroscopic information about the chemical composition as well as the shape and location of the object being imaged.

The unique properties of THz radiation allow it to see farther and in more detail than imaging methods such as X-rays, ultrasound, and radar. For example, T-rays have been demonstrated to effectively image skin burn severity, tooth cavities, and skin cancer. Land-mine detection and prescreening sealed envelopes and cardboard or plastic containers to identify chemical and biological hazards applications are in the works. A T-ray imaging system can look through walls and doors to see people and weapons within a building.

Center for Terahertz Research, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Breaking developments in the field at Physorg.