Optoelectronic-Based High-Efficiency Quasi-CW Terahertz Imaging

Abstract—We demonstrate an optoelectronic-based high-efficiency
terahertz (THz) imaging system. Based on a micron-sized
photonic transmitter operating at room temperature, an improved
signal-to-noise ratio with a reasonable spatial resolution can be
achieved. Biomedical THz imaging was demonstrated with a dried
seahorse and a fresh flower, which were hidden in plastic sample
holders and were invisible. Tissue and water distributions of
distinct regions of the bio-samples were clearly resolved, showing
the high imaging contrasts of the demonstrated system. These
results reveal the possibility to construct a high-sensitivity THz
imaging system with less than 1-mW optical excitation.