Unique THz 'fingerprints' will identify hidden explosives from a distanceA major breakthrough in remote wave sensing by a team of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute researchers opens the way for detecting hidden explosives, chemical, biological agents and illegal drugs from a distance of 20 meters. The new, all-optical system, using terahertz (THz) wave technology, has great potential for homeland security and military uses because it can "see through" clothing and packaging materials and can identify immediately the unique THz "fingerprints" of any hidden materials. Terahertz waves occupy a large segment of the electromagnetic spectrum between the infrared and microwave bands which can...