Broadband Multimode Terahertz Imaging for Detection of Corrosion and Defects Under Hull Coatings Navy SBIR FY2012.1 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2012.1 Topic No.: N121-064 Topic Title: Broadband Multimode Terahertz Imaging for Detection of Corrosion and Defects Under Hull Coatings Proposal No.: N121-064-0049 Firm: PNTS Incorporated 11 Deerpark Drive Suite 219 Monmouth Junction, New Jersey 08852 Contact: Richard Skibo Phone: (732) 355-9550 Web Site: www.pntsystems.com Abstract: In this Phase I SBIR program, we propose to utilize earlier DoD funded research in terahertz spectroscopy and imaging, image processing, feature extraction, and dynamic processing of large datasets to craft a scalable architecture for nondestructive defect analysis defect analysis of large naval structures. PNTS teaming partners at Wright State University (WSU) have been at the forefront of the development of terahertz-based non-destructive evaluation (NDE) measurements. The team's collective work has demonstrated that both continuous-wave and time-domain terahertz (THz) spectroscopy and imaging techniques are effective for the evaluation of the physical characteristics and intrinsic material properties of a wide range of structures and components. Given the myriad of platforms and processing technologies potentially useful for these tasks, the team's extensive experience in both time domain terahertz (THz-TDS) and continuous wave terahertz (THz-CW) will be leveraged to define an optimal suite of architectured solutions for this topic, without removal of the coatings to meet with unrestricted operation (URO) maintenance requirement card (MRC) specifications. The team will also employ both THz-TDS and THz-CW systems to analyze test coupons with surface coatings consistent with NAVSEA approved coatings for submarine exterior underwater hull anticorrosive and antifouling system preservation. Benefits: The team feels that its novel capabilities, with the potential for low cost for manufacturing and implementation, in the most highly integrated versions, and flexible configuration will allow its use in a wide range of venues. The results of this effort will lead to improved inspection of submarine hulls for corrosion and defects under coatings, and have applicability to other types of ship hulls as well. Resulting THz system SNR and speed performance improvements will benefit all applications which use the same region of the THz spectrum including space shuttle fuel tank hull and insulated pipe corrosion inspections. Return