Optimizing Terahertz Laser Systems for Enhanced Airport Security
School Name
South Carolina Governor's School for Science and Mathematics
Grade Level
12th Grade
Presentation Topic
Engineering
Presentation Type
Mentored
Abstract
Ensuring passenger safety through effective airport security screenings is crucial. My research aims to optimize terahertz laser systems to improve the accuracy and efficiency of these screenings. To achieve this, I conducted experiments using cutout notepads to simulate dielectric mirrors and filters, measured with pulse lasers. This setup helped evaluate their capability in detecting different materials. Additionally, I simulated security screenings using mock-ups with metal parts to assess the practical application of these lasers. The findings revealed that while terahertz lasers are promising, their current resolution is inadequate, potentially leading to false alarms. To address this, continuous lasers were used to measure refractive indices, providing essential data for better material differentiation. By optimizing laser filtering with dielectric mirrors and refining continuous laser technology, this research aims to deliver faster, more reliable, and safer security solutions. These improvements can reduce wait times and enhance the overall travel experience for passengers. Furthermore, the advancements in terahertz laser technology have broader implications for security and medical imaging especially in cancer cell detection, contributing to public safety and health.
Recommended Citation
Yanagi, Shie, "Optimizing Terahertz Laser Systems for Enhanced Airport Security" (2025). South Carolina Junior Academy of Science. 50.
https://scholarexchange.furman.edu/scjas/2025/all/50
Location
PENNY 217
Start Date
4-5-2025 11:00 AM
Presentation Format
Oral Only
Group Project
No
Optimizing Terahertz Laser Systems for Enhanced Airport Security
PENNY 217
Ensuring passenger safety through effective airport security screenings is crucial. My research aims to optimize terahertz laser systems to improve the accuracy and efficiency of these screenings. To achieve this, I conducted experiments using cutout notepads to simulate dielectric mirrors and filters, measured with pulse lasers. This setup helped evaluate their capability in detecting different materials. Additionally, I simulated security screenings using mock-ups with metal parts to assess the practical application of these lasers. The findings revealed that while terahertz lasers are promising, their current resolution is inadequate, potentially leading to false alarms. To address this, continuous lasers were used to measure refractive indices, providing essential data for better material differentiation. By optimizing laser filtering with dielectric mirrors and refining continuous laser technology, this research aims to deliver faster, more reliable, and safer security solutions. These improvements can reduce wait times and enhance the overall travel experience for passengers. Furthermore, the advancements in terahertz laser technology have broader implications for security and medical imaging especially in cancer cell detection, contributing to public safety and health.
