Source: thznetwork.org;

    Thanks to technologies developed in the past two decades, particularly sources and detectors, terahertz technology is within striking distance of an extraordinary range of potential markets. Now, a new market study by Thintri, Inc. evaluates the state of today¡¯s technology, the obstacles on the path to commercialization of terahertz technology, and the viability of emerging market opportunities, along with forecasts for key segments.

    Already, viable applications for terahertz systems have emerged beyond the well-established astronomical and research instrumentation markets. NASA uses terahertz technology to inspect the foam insulation on the Space Shuttle for flaws. TeraView markets systems for inspection of packaged pharmaceuticals. The potential of terahertz technology for process control, product inspection and material evaluation by itself is a potentially enormous market segment, but is only one of several that could be captured by terahertz technology within the next decade.

    Security applications, both commercial and defense, are probably the most widely publicized (and over-hyped) of the emerging terahertz applications. Because terahertz systems can work in both imaging and spectroscopic modes, they can not only reveal a concealed weapon carried by an airline passenger but also inspect a material carried by that passenger and distinguish between a dangerous explosive, illegal contraband or harmless cosmetic.

    Beyond manufacturing and security, medicine and wireless communications are also significant market opportunities. Terahertz radiation has demonstrated its utility in detecting skin cancer, and markets in biochips and biosensors could grow quickly. Terahertz technology may also impact wireless communications, particularly in high bandwidth and secure campus communications systems.

    However, with the abundant promise of large terahertz markets, hype around some of the high profile applications, sometimes involving totally unrealistic estimates of the capabilities of terahertz systems, has led to a backlash. Some industry observers and participants, stung by the hype, are now overly pessimistic about the possibilities of new markets based on terahertz technology. Yet, within the terahertz community, a consensus is growing as to which applications stand a real chance of becoming significant markets.

    Movement toward wider commercial deployment has already begun and will continue, but successful markets will depend on technical progress in components and systems. Quantum cascade lasers, for example, which offer the possibility of small, inexpensive and high power sources, today require extensive cooling for proper performance, and only operate at the lower frequency range of the terahertz band. The viability of entire applications will hinge on improving the technology.

    Based on in-depth interviews with terahertz experts in government, industry and academia, Terahertz Systems: Technology and Emerging Markets surveys the state of today¡¯s terahertz technology, the formidable technical and commercial obstacles in the way of full commercialization, and the viability of the wide range of potential commercial and defense applications. Bracketed market forecasts for 2012 and 2017 are also provided.

    A flyer for the report can be found at www.thintri.com/Terahertz-report.htm.