Angle-resolved scattering spectroscopy of explosives using an external cavity quantum cascade laser

Jonathan D. Suter; Bruce E. Bernacki; Mark C. Phillips

doi:10.1117/12.908653

20 January 2012 Angle-resolved scattering spectroscopy of explosives using an external cavity quantum cascade laser

Jonathan D. Suter, Bruce E. Bernacki, Mark C. Phillips

Proceedings Volume 8268, Quantum Sensing and Nanophotonic Devices IX; 82681O (2012) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.908653
Event: SPIE OPTO, 2012, San Francisco, California, United States

Abstract

We present a study of the spectral and angular dependence of the diffuse scatter of mid-infrared (MIR) laser light from explosives residues on surfaces. Experiments were performed using an external cavity quantum cascade laser (ECQCL) tunable between 7 and 8 μm (1270 to 1400 cm^-1) for surface illumination. A mercury cadmium telluride (MCT) detector was used to detect backscattered spectra as a function of surface angle at a 2 meter standoff. A ferroelectric focal plane array was used to build hyperspectral images at a 0.5 meter standoff. Residues of RDX, tetryl, and TNT were investigated on surfaces including a painted car door for angles between zero (specular) and 50 degrees. We observe spectral signatures of the explosives in the diffuse scattering geometry which differ significantly from those observed in transmission geometries. Characterization of the scattered light spectra of explosives on surfaces will be essential for understanding the performance of standoff explosives detection instruments and developing robust spectral analysis techniques.

Citation Download Citation

Jonathan D. Suter, Bruce E. Bernacki, and Mark C. Phillips "Angle-resolved scattering spectroscopy of explosives using an external cavity quantum cascade laser", Proc. SPIE 8268, Quantum Sensing and Nanophotonic Devices IX, 82681O (20 January 2012); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.908653

ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

INSTITUTIONAL
Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.

SELECT YOUR INSTITUTION

PERSONAL
Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.

PERSONAL SIGN IN

No SPIE Account? Create one

PURCHASE THIS CONTENT

SUBSCRIBE TO DIGITAL LIBRARY

50 downloads per 1-year subscription

Members: $195

Non-members: $335 ADD TO CART

25 downloads per 1 - year subscription

Members: $145

Non-members: $250 ADD TO CART

PURCHASE SINGLE ARTICLE

Includes PDF, HTML & Video, when available