Recent advances in terahertz imaging: 1999 to 2021

We discuss the progress in the field of THz imaging based on time-domain spectroscopy during the last 20 years emphasizing several highlights. These include 3D mapping of the water distribution of plants, THz reflection imaging of samples with arbitrary shape, burn wound imaging and the early diagnosis of diabetic foot disease. These applications greatly benefit from the introduction of fibre-coupled THz time-domain system operated by rugged and portable femtosecond fibre-lasers. THz imaging is a versatile measurement method that has a plethora of practical applications and great promise for the future.

Automated summary

This article discusses the progress made in the field of THz imaging based on time-domain spectroscopy over the past 20 years, highlighting several important applications including 3D mapping of plant water distribution, THz reflection imaging of samples with arbitrary shape, burn wound imaging, and early diagnosis of diabetic foot disease. These applications have greatly benefited from the introduction of rugged and portable femtosecond fiber lasers for fiber-coupled THz time-domain systems. THz imaging is a versatile measurement method that has a wide range of practical applications and holds great promise for the future.