Real-time imaging using a 2.8 THz quantum cascade laser and uncooled infrared microbolometer camera.
Real-time imaging in the terahertz (THz) spectral range was achieved using a milliwatt-scale, 2.8 THz quantum cascade laser and an uncooled, 160 x 120 pixel microbolometer camera modified with Picarin optics. Noise equivalent temperature difference of the camera in the 1-5 THz frequency range was estimated to be at least 3 K, confirming the need for external THz illumination when imaging in this frequency regime. Despite the appearance of fringe patterns produced by multiple diffraction effects, single-frame and extended video imaging of obscured objects show high-contrast differentiation between metallic and plastic materials, supporting the viability of this imaging approach for use in future security screening applications.
Behnken
Barry N
BN
Department of Physics, Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, CA 93943, USA. bnbehnke@nps.edu
Karunasiri
Gamani
G
Chamberlin
Danielle R
DR
Robrish
Peter R
PR
Faist
Jérôme
J