Applications of Terahertz FMCW Radar Reflectometry with Plastic Waveguide

This paper presents a compact 122 GHz Terahertz FMCW radar using a plastic hollow-core dielectric waveguide for non-destructive testing. The guided approach simplifies the system, avoiding complex free-space optics and alignment, while improving the signal-to-noise ratio by isolating endpoint reflections from internal ones. Various configurations, including solid immersion lenses, enhance spatial resolution and imaging capabilities. Experiments combine 3D electromagnetic simulations and raster scanning to image fine details and detect subsurface defects. Applications span aerospace, automotive, and art conservation. Results demonstrate that the guided FMCW radar is a cost-effective, portable, and reliable alternative to traditional free-space setups, enabling broader, practical implementation across industries.