Fraunhofer Institute for Industrial Mathematics ITWMTerahertz waves – a spectral range with a great deal of potential
The terahertz range has been comprehensively technically exploited for the first time in the last few years. With frequencies between 0.1 and 10 terahertz (THz), this spectral range lies between microwaves and infrared radiation. The corresponding wavelengths range from 3 mm to 30 µm.
Terahertz waves unite the advantages of the two neighboring spectral regions: high penetration depth and low scattering combined with good spatial resolution are characteristic properties of terahertz waves. Unlike UV radiation or X-rays, for example, terahertz waves do not change the chemical structure of substances and materials. Consequently, they are not harmful to humans.