Test & Measurement

Terahertz time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) has emerged as a powerful tool for non-destructive layer thickness measurement of paints, varnishes, and functional coatings. Short terahertz pulses penetrate dielectric materials and reflect at layer interfaces, allowing precise determination of individual layer thicknesses—without contact and without damaging the sample.

These systems are driven by ultrafast femtosecond lasers that generate and detect broadband terahertz radiation. Compact, robust femtosecond fiber lasers provide the required pulse duration, timing stability, and reliability for inline industrial measurements.

Terahertz radiation is also ideally suited for inspecting plastic components and composite materials. It enables the detection of voids, inclusions, delaminations, or structural defects hidden beneath the surface—capabilities that are difficult or impossible to achieve with conventional optical methods.

Here again, femtosecond laser-based terahertz sources deliver high signal-to-noise ratios and excellent depth resolution. Lateral resolution is diffraction limited – providing the required resolution for imaging. Their non-ionizing nature makes terahertz inspection safe for both operators and sensitive materials, opening new possibilities for quality control in automotive, aerospace, and packaging industries.