Scientists at Britain’s University of Strathclyde have developed a technology for producing terahertz pulses—a safe form of radiation that could be used in medical imaging, biological research, or homeland security. The nanotechnology, developed by Dr Klaas Wynne and Gregor H. Welsh, can be used to cultivate a range of imaging technologies from new machines to detect cancerous cells to security systems to reveal weapons and explosives concealed under clothing. The scientists found they could generate terahertz pulses by firing an ultra-fast laser at a small, nano-engineered piece of grooved glass topped with gold. According to Mr. Welch, “Our method of producing terahertz is a bit like a modern, ultra-fast version of Henrich Hertz’ 1886 experiment with which he discovered radio waves, but scaled down in size and duration by a billion times.” For more information, see the press release at the University of Strathclydewebsite.
UK Researchers’ Terahertz Pulses Could Boost Medical Imaging Technology
