Multicolor T‐Ray Imaging Using Multispectral Metamaterials. Issue 7 (25th March 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Zhou, Zhitao; Zhou, Tao; Zhang, Shaoqing; Shi, Zhifeng; Chen, Ying; Wan, Wenjian; Li, Xinxin; Chen, Xinzhong; Gilbert Corder, Stephanie N.; Fu, Zhanglong; Chen, Liang; Mao, Ying; Cao, Juncheng; Omenetto, Fiorenzo G.; Liu, Mengkun; Li, Hua; Tao, Tiger H.
• Is Part Of: Advanced science. Volume 5:Issue 7(2018)
• Page Start: n/a
• Page End: n/a
• Publication Date: 2018-03-25
• Subjects: metamaterials -- multicolor imaging -- T‐ray imaging; Science -- Periodicals; 505
• DOI: 10.1002/advs.201700982
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2198-3844

Abstract

Abstract: Recent progress in ultrafast spectroscopy and semiconductor technology is enabling unique applications in screening, detection, and diagnostics in the Terahertz (T‐ray) regime. The promise of efficaciously operation in this spectral region is tempered by the lack of devices that can spectrally analyze samples at sufficient temporal and spatial resolution. Real‐time, multispectral T‐ray (Mul‐T) imaging is reported by designing and demonstrating hyperspectral metamaterial focal plane array (MM‐FPA) interfaces allowing multiband (and individually tunable) responses without compromising on the pixel size. These MM‐FPAs are fully compatible with existing microfabrication technologies and have low noise when operating in the ambient environment. When tested with a set of frequency switchable quantum cascade lasers (QCLs) for multicolor illumination, both MM‐FPAs and QCLs can be tuned to operate at multiple discrete THz frequencies to match analyte "fingerprints." Versatile imaging capabilities are presented, including unambiguous identification of concealed substances with intrinsic and/or human‐engineered THz characteristics as well as effective diagnosis of cancerous tissues without notable spectral signatures in the THz range, underscoring the utility of applying multispectral approaches in this compelling wavelength range for sensing/identification and medical imaging. Abstract : A real‐time, multispectral T‐ray (Mul‐T) imager based on multispectral metamaterial focal plane array and frequency switchable quantum cascade lasers is reported. Non‐destructive material identification and defect inspection for concealed tablets based on the Mul‐T imager are implemented successfully.