Terahertz imaging: a report on progress

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to provide details of recent developments in terahertz (THz) imaging technology and its applications.Design methodology approach - This paper first discusses the properties, perceived imaging uses and sources of THz radiation. It then describes passive and active imaging systems through reference to commercial products and their applications. Finally, it considers future prospects and key technological developments.Findings - This paper shows that the commercialisation of passive and active imaging systems has been gradual but uses are emerging in a range of security, material testing and healthcare applications. Market development has been hindered in part by the high cost of systems and certain technological and operational limitations. Research which aims to overcome these problems is widespread and much involves the development of improved sources and detectors.Originality value - The paper provides a detailed insight into the present state of THz imaging technology and its applications and identifies and describes critical technological developments.