Detection and identification of explosives using terahertz pulsed spectroscopic imaging

The absorption spectrum of the explosive 1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazacyclohexane (RDX) has been measured using a conventional Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and by terahertz pulsed spectroscopy. Seven absorption features in the spectral range of 5–120cm−1 have been observed and identified as the fingerprint of RDX. Furthermore, the spatial distribution of individual chemical substances including RDX, has been mapped out using reflection terahertz spectroscopic imaging in combination with component spatial pattern analysis. This is the terahertz spectroscopy and chemical mapping of explosives obtained using reflection terahertz measurement, and represents a significant advance toward developing a terahertz pulsed imaging system for security screening of explosives.