A terahertz security body scanner developed by Brainware Terahertz Information Technology Co Ltd is introduced at the Hefei metro. [Photo/WeChat account: hefeigaoxinfabu]

A terahertz security body scanner developed by Brainware Terahertz Information Technology Co Ltd was introduced at the Hefei metro this February, helping ensure safety and increase the efficiency of security checks amid COVID-19 epidemic.

This contactless machine is capable not only of carrying out terahertz security checks but also of infrared temperature measurements. People just need to walk through a scanner and any prohibited items will be detected.

During the epidemic, artificial temperature measurements created a risk of cross infection and often lead to crowding due to their lack of efficiency. The new equipment is capable of measuring temperatures quickly and efficiently. It is nearly five times faster than manual measuring.

A terahertz wave is a type of electromagnetic wave whose frequency ranges from 0.1 to 10 terahertz and was discovered by scientists through trial and error at the end of last century. Countries such as China, Japan, and the United States have placed high value on the development of terahertz technology.

Brainware Terahertz, located in the Hefei National High-tech Industry Development Zone, is leading the commercialization of terahertz technology to create products and attract market orders, boosting the development of the industry.

The product developed by the company detects prohibited objects (with the exception of metal) and sends out warnings based on the pattern of the terahertz waves emitted by the human body and blocked by hidden objects in clothing. Because different items absorb and obstruct terahertz waves to different degrees, the technology is able to determine the shape and position of suspicious items.

The company has also developed another vehicle-mounted mobile security detector as a temporary quick security check.

The company has promised to respect the privacy of individuals being checked. The terahertz security body scanner mainly presents two-dimensional images, showing only the outline of the human body and not an individual's private parts.

Terahertz security checks have been widely applied at metro stations, checkpoints, customs areas, hospitals, and more. Scientists are still looking into more possible applications.

Terahertz technology is expected to bring about major changes in histopathological examinations of the skin, nondestructive testing, and even 6G communications.