In 2015 7, it was proposed that a standard be created for MMW imaging systems similar to that for x-ray computed tomography (CT) systems used in the scanning of baggage at airport security checkpoints 18. To this end, the EMXLAB has been developing image quality tools (IQTs) for the testing of active MMW imaging systems 6, 7 to supplement the methodologies that currently exist in the literature 12- 17.
Additionally, while commercial systems may have internal calibration and fault check methodologies, it is desirable to have a tool (or tools) that can be used to independently test the operation/performance of the system from developmental testing through daily commissioning at the checkpoint. As MMW imaging systems are deployed at security checkpoints in a number of venues, each with its own specific detection requirements, knowledge of the ability of individual systems to detect threats of interest is crucial to the acquisition process. The ability to objectively determine the operating characteristics of MMW imaging systems is of interest to the TSL and its stakeholders. By measuring the complex dielectric constant of explosives, it is possible to create inert simulants of explosives for the safe testing of MMW imaging systems 3, 11, and most recently, the EMXLAB has engaged in efforts to directly identify explosives via wideband MMW imaging 8- 10. Activities have included the measurement of the optical properties of explosives and inert materials in the GHz – THz frequency range 1- 11 for the purpose of understanding the phenomenology of MMW imaging.
Department of Homeland Security’s Transportation Security Laboratory (TSL) has been engaged in research and development to support the test and evaluation of millimeter wave imaging systems for the screening of personnel at security checkpoints for over 10 years. The Electromagnetic Signatures of Explosives Laboratory (EMXLAB) at the U.S.
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