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Applications of Terahertz FMCW Radar Reflectometry with Plastic Waveguide
1 , 2 , 2 , 2 , 1 , * 3
1  Centro de Física Aplicada y Tecnología Avanzada, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Querétaro, México
2  Centro de Ingeniería y Desarrollo Industrial, Querétaro, México
3  Bordeaux University - IMS Laboratory 351 Cours de la Liberation 33405 Talence France
Academic Editor: Jean-marc Laheurte

https://doi.org/10.3390/ECSA-12-26504 (registering DOI)
Abstract:

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 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 guided FMCW radar as a cost-effective, portable, and reliable alternative to traditional free-space setups, enabling broader, practical implementation across industries.

Keywords: Terahertz; FMCW radar; plastic waveguide; non-destructive testing; reflectometry; imag-ing; millimeter-wave; resolution enhancement; guided waves
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