The millimeter-wave and terahertz regions of the electromagnetic spectrum have a long and rich history in the area of high-resolution, gas-phase molecular spectroscopy that is based on well-established physics. This has led to the detection of molecules in space and the ability to monitor molecules in the upper atmosphere that are associated with stratospheric ozone chemistry. This spectral region also possesses a unique combination of attributes that include high transmission through most dielectric materials along with the ability to develop imaging systems, properties associated with the microwave and infrared/optical regions of the spectrum, respectively. Due to these advantages and through the utilization of the technologies developed for remote sensing, several terrestrial applications that are now under development that include radar systems for the standoff detection of human vital signs and imaging systems for non-destructive evaluation.  This talk will discuss the fundamental physics for each of these applications and include a discussion of emerging technologies, commercial opportunities and technical challenges.

Bio

Doug Petkie received a Bachelors of Science degree in Physics from Carnegie Mellon University and a Ph.D. in Physics from Ohio State University where he focused on experiment molecular spectroscopy.  He is currently an Associate Professor of Physics and Electrical Engineering at Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio where he is the co-director of the Engineering Physics program.  He is also a Faculty Program Director of Emerging Technologies for the Wright State Research Institute and involved in several State of Ohio Third Frontier initiatives, such as the Terahertz Collaborative Research Center, that are collaborative efforts between universities, government labs, and industry partners to promote the development and transition of new technologies and to provide a framework for workforce development.