Tomography(FD-CT) Technique

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Track Code 2014-011 Short Description A technique for detecting and imaging subsurface structural layers utilizing a frequency domain combined with THz radiation (FD-CT). Tags detection, imaging, tomography, spectrometer, interferometer, Michelson, radiation, terahertz, frequency Posted Date Jan 12, 2016 12:54 PM Background   Detecting and imaging devices are widely used today in the fast-growing security and medical industries. Currently, a majority of radiation detecting and imaging devices are based on a system utilizing a Michelson interferometer and a visible or IR radiation source. However, these existing forms of tomography cannot penetrate surfaces deeply enough when compared with terahertz (THz) radiation. Time domain THz coherence tomography exists, however it is too slow for many applications. A more efficient tomography device that is able to penetrate to deeper layers of an entity is needed. Technology   UMass Lowell researchers have developed a technique for detecting and imaging subsurface structural layers utilizing a frequency domain combined with THz radiation (FD-CT). The FD-CT includes a THz source, a Michelson interferometer, and a THz spectrometer. The beam splitter in the Michelson interferometer splits the incoming broadband THz beam into the reference and sample arms. The combined reflected signal from the reference and sample arms are sent to and spatially separated by the spectrometer. The frequency components are measured by the spectrometer using a Fourier transform, called an axial scan, in a single shot at video speed. Competitive Advantages   Frequency-domain method is more efficient than existing time-domain methods. THz radiation allows for a deeper look into objects than shorter wavelength IR and visible devices currently used. THz radiation is non-ionizing and safe to use. Applications   Security measures to look beneath the surface layer of a package or and individuals clothing. Medical applications to examine beneath surface tissue, such as cancer detection and burn wound imaging. Market Potential   The need for an efficient tomography device with a greater penetration depth for detection and imaging devices will grow drastically as the security and medical industries continue to develop. A report from BCC Research projects the terahertz radiation systems market to grow at a CAGR of 40.4% to $298.5 million by 2019 and additionally reach $1.2 billion by 2024 at a CAGR of 32.3%.