Noninvasive technology can read closed books
25 September 2002
News
A form of electromagnetic imaging which is sensitive enough to 'see' writing on each page in a book, while the cover remains closed, has been developed by researchers. Called terahertz imaging, the technique offers scholars and the wider public the opportunity for examining the contents of precious books and manuscripts without contributing to their deterioration which is likely, if they are handled frequently.
As well as looking at historical documents and watermarks, the researchers will work with the York Archaeological Trust and take images of paintings and ceramics. They will discover what lies beneath the outer painting or glaze and be able to identify the substances involved. This can provide important information on the creation of the artefact and the technologies used by its maker.
Dr Nikolay Zinovev (left), from St Petersburg, Russia, places a book in the imaging system located in the Institute of Microwave and Photonics, at the University of Leeds, England. Principal researcher Dr Robert Miles looks on
Dr Miles explained: "Until now, we have been concentrating on the medical applications of the technology. Unlike X-rays, terahertz waves are not harmful, so there are no exposure worries for practitioners or patients." Terahertz imaging is sensitive enough to show the chemical nature of the object studied. Terahertz waves make molecules vibrate and the frequency of the vibration reveals the chemicals present and also if there are chemical reactions taking place - features of the technology which greatly increase the range of its application."
The technology can also be applied to determine the composition of foodstuffs, as well as for analysing the wear and tear of fibres that are used in advanced clothing (such as breathable clothing) and industrial situations.
For more information contact the School of Electronic and Electrical Engineering, University of Leeds, UK, [email protected] or see www.teravision.org
Further reading:
Engineering in a world that cannot assume connectivity
Technews Publishing
Editor's Choice News
Across industrial automation, networking, and defence systems, engineers are rediscovering the importance of resilience and autonomy in an increasingly connected world.
Read more...
IOT secures major industry partnership
IOT Electronics
News
IOT Electronics has announced a new strategic partnership with Powell Electronics, becoming an Official Authorised Reseller in South Africa.
Read more...
Successful Proteus training conference
Dizzy Enterprises
News
Dizzy Enterprises recently hosted two hands-on Proteus Training Conferences, bringing together electronics professionals, designers, and enthusiasts to explore the latest capabilities of the Proteus Design Suite from Labcenter Electronics.
Read more...
Hitachi reinvents asset management solution
News
Hitachi Energy, in collaboration with Microsoft, is accelerating the digital transformation of essential infrastructure - from electricity networks and transportation corridors to heavy industrial operations - by reinventing how critical assets are managed and maintained.
Read more...
Mycronic releases mixed Q4 results
News
Mycronic reported mixed Q4 results for the year ended January to December 2025, while delivering record full year order intake and net sales.
Read more...
AGOA: Businesses should diversify or face significant exposure
News
Cross-border payments platform Verto has called on South African and African businesses to accelerate their transition toward a “post-AGOA” trade strategy following President Donald Trump’s signing of a one-year extension to the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).
Read more...
European components distribution growing
News
European electronic components distribution returned to growth in the fourth quarter of 2025, according to newly released figures from DMASS Europe.
Read more...
Silicon Labs reports strong growth
News
Silicon Labs has reported robust financial results for the fourth quarter and full year 2025, with significant YoY revenue gains and shifting market dynamics.
Read more...
Siemens acquires Canopus AI
ASIC Design Services
News
The acquisition extends Siemens’ comprehensive EDA software portfolio with computational metrology and inspection to help chipmakers solve critical technical challenges in semiconductor manufacturing.
Read more...
Micron breaks ground on new wafer fabs
News
Micron Technology has advanced two major semiconductor manufacturing initiatives that together reflect the company’s strategic response to sustained global demand for memory solutions.
Read more...
printer friendly version