Cutting-edge security screening technology There is a need for more effective security screening to detect an increasing variety of threats at border and security checkpoints. An EU initiative is developing technology to provide new capabilities in people screening. Digital Economy © Thinkstock Existing screening systems lack the technology to keep up with today's progressively demanding security needs. With the help of the EU-funded 'Multi-frequency multi-mode terahertz screening for border checks' (TERASCREEN) project, an innovative security screening technology is being designed that will enhance security and efficiency at critical checkpoints. The project partners are creating a security scanner prototype that will use electromagnetic waves called terahertz (THz) and millimetre-waves (mm-wave) to identify harmful objects on moving persons. For example, explosive materials and improvised explosive devices emit and reflect different amounts of THz and mm-waves at different frequencies. This imaging ability can be used to reveal an explosive and differentiate it from clothing or other materials. Hz and mm-waves are safe for screening people to automatically detect in real time metallic and non-metallic objects through clothing and other materials. The system does not use potentially harmful ionising radiation like X-rays. It will be non-invasive and safeguard privacy because no parts of the anatomy will be displayed or stored. The device will produce a generic computerised image of a human body with data on potential threats. The system will also be in line with EU laws for basic human rights and power restrictions. The automatic threat detection and classification features will require much less analysis from security personnel, thus leading to faster processing times. The checkpoint experience will be improved since people are not required to stop during scanning. Work has begun on developing components such as the antenna, scanning system and transmitter. The prototype will be demonstrated at a live control point in Bristol International Airport. Once ready, the TERASCREEN state-of-the-art prototype will offer faster and safer security checks at airports, border crossings, government sites and other vital infrastructures. Keywords Security, screening, checkpoints, terahertz, millimetre-wave
