Fraunhofer Institute for Industrial Mathematics ITWMNon-contact, non-destructive Terahertz measuring technology offers a number of advantages over alternative non-destructive testing methods. Unlike X-ray or UV radiation, terahertz waves, due to their comparatively low energy, do not induce a change in the chemical structure of the material under investigation, and they are not harmful to humans. This makes terahertz technology an interesting tool for industrial quality control.
Harnessing terahertz technology for industrial quality control is the object of several projects. This involves the development of powerful components and the development of complete systems for special applications.
Scientists at the Institute together with international partners are developing systems for security applications and product testing. Some systems for quality control of modern materials such as glass-fiber reinforced plastics (GFRP), plastics or ceramics and systems for the detection of explosives and drugs have already been realized. They demonstrate that the time has come for the industrial use of terahertz measurement technology.