Updated screening devices in development

LIVERMORE, Calif., Jan. 23 (UPI) -- U.S. government scientists are developing screening devices that can find hazardous materials even if concealed in clothing or packaging.

Sandia National Laboratory researchers say the next generation of screening devices will work in the underutilized terahertz portion of the electromagnetic spectrum that lies between microwaves and infrared.

"The technology being developed ... can be used to scan for items such as concealed weapons or materials, explosives, and weapons of mass destruction," said Mike Wanke, principal investigator. "In addition, we believe it will find applications in advanced communication systems and high-resolution radars."

In addition to detecting concealed hazardous materials, Wanke said a terahertz system might also be used to monitor the air for toxic materials.

"We are very optimistic about working in the terahertz electromagnetic spectrum," Wanke said. "This is an unexplored area and a lot of science can come out of it. We are just beginning to scratch the surface of what (the terahertz spectrum) can do to improve national security."