Abstract:
This chapter considers the challenge of using terahertz (THz) techniques for the detection and recognition of explosives. There are two general approaches to this problem: (1) imaging, which uses the penetration capability of THz radiation to “see” the image of the explosive, and (2) spectroscopy, which allows the chemical signature to be recognized. The former is beyond the scope of this volume and has been well addressed previously. The latter can be divided into two subcategories: the detection and recognition of the explosive itself and the detection and recognition of its precursors, additives, or decay products. Most reports claiming detection of these materials, hereafter collectively called “explosives,” have only considered laboratory measurements of them in pure form and have not considered the greater challenge of recognizing these materials among naturally occurring compounds or mixed with other compounds and shielded in containers. When these challenges are considered seriously, the exquisite recognition specificity afforded by gas-phase THz spectroscopy may only be used to detect and recognize explosives in very limited circumstances.
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