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In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, one domain that has emerged as a beacon of innovation is the realm of terahertz (THz) technology. Over the past few years, this once niche field has catapulted into the limelight due to its remarkable potential in various applications, particularly in defense and security. The terahertz technology market is experiencing a surge in growth, driven by the increasing demand for advanced solutions in these critical sectors. In this article, we delve into the fascinating world of terahertz technology, its pivotal role in defense and security, and the factors propelling its rapid industry growth.
Unveiling Terahertz Technology: Beyond the Visible Spectrum
Terahertz radiation occupies a unique position within the electromagnetic spectrum, lying between microwave and infrared radiation. It offers a wide spectrum of applications, from imaging and spectroscopy to communication and sensing. What sets terahertz technology apart is its ability to penetrate various materials that are opaque to visible light while being non-ionizing, making it safe for both humans and the environment. This distinctive characteristic makes terahertz radiation a game-changer in fields where accuracy and precision are paramount.
Terahertz (THz) represents the portion of the electromagnetic radiation between the microwave and the infrared region. It is within the frequency range of 0.1–10 THz, corresponding to wavelengths of radiation from 3000 to 30 µm. The advantages of the terahertz light are that they are non-invasive, intrinsically safe, and non-ionizing, along with being non-destructive.
This radiation does have some uniquely attractive qualities: For example, it can yield extremely high-resolution images and move vast amounts of data quickly. And yet it is nonionizing, meaning its photons are not energetic enough to knock electrons off atoms and molecules in human tissue, which could trigger harmful chemical reactions. Terahertz may revolutionize medical imaging, security screening and manufacturing quality control because of THz’s non-ionizing property and capability to penetrating dielectrics, fabrics and body tissue.
The terahertz (THz) frequency band is a fascinating and relatively unexplored part of the larger electromagnetic spectrum (EMS). The terahertz frequency range can be disruptive force in sectors as diverse as from medical imaging, biological research, pharmaceutical monitoring, manufacturing and quality control, and semiconductor testing to communications, and security and defence. Science and technologies based on terahertz frequency electromagnetic radiation have developed rapidly over the last 30 years.
Being non-ionising as well as non-destructive, THz waves can pass through non-conducting materials such as clothes, paper, wood and brick, making them ideal for applications in areas such as cancer diagnosis, detection of chemicals, drugs and explosives, coating analysis and quality control of integrated circuit chips. Current application (as an imaging tool) includes non-destructive testing and quality control (QC) of various materials, including plastics, concrete, and ceramics.
Recently, THz imaging has been used in laboratory tests and security screening to examine the condition of space shuttle components, examine text in books that are too sensitive to examine physically, and to localize illicit drugs based on specific composition. Due to the power constraints, its use has been restricted to an approximate distance of 10 meters or less. THz radiation is being used to optimize materials for new solar cells, and may also be a key technology for the next generation of airport security scanners.
Terahertz will also key technology in future 6G wireless communications. 6G could also satisfy Military’s growing requirements to gather, analyze, and share information rapidly; to control an increasing number of automated Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) assets; to command geographically dispersed and mobile forces to gain access into denied areas.
Terahertz Technology: Fundamentals, Devices, and Applications
Advancements Driving the Industry Forward
The rapid growth of the terahertz technology market can be attributed to the constant advancements and innovations taking place in the field. Researchers and engineers are continually pushing the boundaries of what terahertz technology can achieve, resulting in more compact, efficient, and cost-effective systems. The development of high-performance terahertz sources and detectors has paved the way for the integration of terahertz technology into a broader range of applications.
Additionally, the convergence of terahertz technology with other cutting-edge fields, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, has amplified its potential. AI-powered algorithms can enhance the accuracy of terahertz imaging and data analysis, further bolstering its effectiveness in security and defense scenarios.
Defense and Security: A Catalytic Force for Growth
One of the most significant driving forces behind the burgeoning terahertz technology market is its adoption in defense and security applications. The unprecedented capabilities of terahertz radiation have unlocked a myriad of possibilities for enhancing security measures and military operations. One notable application is terahertz imaging, which enables the detection of concealed objects, weapons, and explosives that might be missed by conventional screening methods.
Terahertz can also provide revolutionary capabilities in defense, including Secure Terahertz communications, Chemical and Biological Agent detection and anti-stealth THz ultra wideband radar. Successful military operations depend upon freedom of action in the warfighting domains of air, space, ground, sea, and cyberspace. Today, effective command and control and situational awareness depend upon radio communications and sensors. Domination of the electromagnetic spectrum (EMS) enables joint force commanders to gain tactical, operational, and strategic advantage over a potential adversary. EMS is broken down into frequency bands defined by certain physical characteristics, which include radio waves, microwaves, millimeter waves, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet radiation, x-rays, and gamma rays.
Moreover, terahertz radiation’s ability to penetrate clothing, paper, and even certain types of plastic without causing harm to human health is being harnessed for personnel screening purposes. This is particularly valuable in high-security environments such as airports, government buildings, and public events, where efficient and non-intrusive screening is crucial.
Diverse Applications: Beyond Defense and Security
While defense and security applications are prominent drivers of terahertz technology growth, the potential of this technology extends far beyond these sectors. Terahertz spectroscopy has found use in pharmaceutical research, materials testing, and quality control due to its ability to identify molecular vibrations and structural properties of materials.
Furthermore, terahertz communication is being explored as a solution for high-speed, wireless data transfer. Its ability to transmit large amounts of data while avoiding the congestion experienced by traditional radio frequencies has generated significant interest from the telecommunications industry.
Terahetz Market
The global terahertz (THz) radiation systems market is expected to reach $1.9 billion by 2030, up from $800 million in 2023. The global terahertz technology market was valued at USD 0.6 billion in 2022. The average annual growth rate of the market for THz radiation systems is expected to be around 5%, with the majority of that increase occurring in the United States.
Some of the terahertz systems are spectroscopy, Terahertz imaging, Terahertz radar, and Terahertz sensing. Enabling technologies include Portable Terahertz imaging Cameras, Terahertz detectors, Generators, Terahertz sources, Spectroscopes, Communication devices, Computing devices, and Antennas.
Drivers –Terahertz Market
The adoption of terahertz systems in the semiconductor industry are among the factors driving the growth of the terahertz technology market. The key drivers responsible for the growth of this market include the increase in demand for terahertz technology-based products in the defense & homeland security and medical sectors and the high adoption rate of these products for laboratory research applications. Increasing adoption of terahertz technology in industries such as aerospace and defence and homeland security and increasing investment in R&D activities are some of the factors that are contributing the growth of market.
Furthermore, terahertz-based non-destructive testing has seen considerable benefits in the manufacturing sector, ranging from heavy machinery to consumer product manufacture. Terahertz radiation can be used to detect internal faults, cracks, or inclusions in metals, ceramics, and polymers, allowing producers to ensure product quality and longevity. Manufacturers may avoid costly recalls, decrease waste, and improve customer satisfaction by detecting flaws early in the manufacturing process.
Security concerns have been a major issue across the entire world. The the number of security application has been increasing that are driving the growth of terahertz market. Increasing utilization of plastic and new chemical & biological weapons by criminals is creating the need to use terahertz devices. Security checks and surveillance have been the areas of concern in airports and other security critical places where there is a risk of terrorist attack.Companies are currently collaborating with this defense and security industry to develop sophisticated devices to detect threats. The government and private enterprises has invested a large amount of money owing to growing terrorist activity.
The growing number of applications of the technology in security applications has been the primary driving force for the growth of the market in the recent past. With increasing innovations and better imaging capabilities, security organizations are investing in upgraded devices for better performance. Also, increased safety provided by the technology gives it a considerable advantage over existing X-ray scanners and detectors. The ability to detect different types of materials, including non-metallic substances, is helping the security sector handle threats. Handheld scanners are being deployed in airports and other public spaces for security screening. The technology is also being deployed for package scanning in airports. Growing terrorist threats around the world and increasing criminal activities are driving investments in many countries to establish security infrastructure. This is expected to aid the growth of terahertz technology in the coming years.
Furthermore, terahertz-based non-destructive testing has seen considerable benefits in the manufacturing sector, ranging from heavy machinery to consumer product manufacture. Terahertz radiation can be used to detect internal faults, cracks, or inclusions in metals, ceramics, and polymers, allowing producers to ensure product quality and longevity. Manufacturers may avoid costly recalls, decrease waste, and improve customer satisfaction by detecting flaws early in the manufacturing process.
Increasing Demand for Terahertz Technology in Medical Sector
Medical Terahertz Technology Market Size Worth $349.00 million by 2028 to Rise at a Stellar CAGR of 17.1% from 2022 to 2028.
Increasing application of high-end terahertz devices in biology and medical science sectors and also high demand in research laboratory and process control monitoring processes are some factors driving the growth of market. Terahertz has shown a great potential in biomedical research owing to its unique features such as non-invasive and label-free identification of living cells and medical imaging. Terahertz technology is widely used for blood cell detection, cancer cell characterization, bacterial identification, and biological tissue discrimination that are increasing the growth of terahertz market.
Another main drivers of the growth of this market include the increasing adoption of terahertz technology-based products for laboratory research applications in various universities & research firms globally and the growing demand for these products in various cancer treatment institutes & hospitals worldwide for more informative results. In addition, the demographic factors (population), shifting consumer landscape (consumer adoption levels), and economic factors are also propelling the growth of the market.
Terahertz technology is also used for diagnosing dental disorders. As per the CDC, in 2019, in the US, 13.2% of children aged 5-19 years and 25.9% of adults aged 20-44 have untreated dental caries. The presence of major market players in the country offering medical terahertz systems is likely to favor market growth. For instance, Terasense Group Inc. is a leading manufacturer of innovative portable terahertz (THz) imaging systems, Terahertz imaging cameras, THz sources, and THz detectors. It offers a cutting-edge technological product portfolio and several competitive advantages.
Challenges – Terahertz Market
The terahertz technology market is not mature. On the other hand, the market players are filing patents for the same. Moreover, the cost incurred in R&D is quite high due to the use of laser and other costly technologies. Also, because of the requirement of high initial investments to develop terahertz technology-based products, the medium and small players cannot afford to develop these products. This is a major factor limiting the demand and supply of terahertz technology-based products which, in turn, restraining the growth of the market.
The continuous developments in the technology due to focused research carried out in various universities worldwide create more opportunities for the adoption of terahertz technology for various new applications such as food quality inspection. However, for such researches, there is a need for more precise products. This requirement proves to be the key driving factor for the growth of the market for laboratory research applications. This market held the largest market share in 2015 and is expected to grow at the highest CAGR between 2016 and 2022.
Key Trends:
- Advancements in Terahertz Sources and Detectors: Continuous advancements in terahertz sources and detectors are driving the market. Innovations include the development of compact and efficient terahertz sources, such as quantum cascade lasers, and sensitive detectors, enhancing the capabilities and accessibility of Terahertz Technology.
- Integration with Other Technologies: A growing trend involves integrating Terahertz Technology with other technologies. Collaborations with artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are enhancing data analysis capabilities, enabling automated identification of substances and patterns in terahertz imaging and sensing applications.
- Terahertz Imaging for Cultural Heritage Preservation: Terahertz imaging is gaining prominence in cultural heritage preservation. Its ability to reveal hidden layers in artworks, manuscripts, and historical artifacts without causing damage makes it a valuable tool for conservators and researchers in the field of cultural heritage.
- Wireless Communication and Spectral Efficiency: Research and development in terahertz communication are driving the trend towards utilizing terahertz waves for wireless communication. The vast bandwidth of terahertz frequencies holds the potential for achieving ultra-fast and high-capacity wireless communication, addressing the increasing demands for data transfer.
High Cost of Terahertz Technology
High cost of terahertz technology and lack of awareness regarding terahertz technology can result into slow adoption rate and concerns regarding accuracy and reliability issues are some factors that are restraining the growth of market. According to National Institute of Information and Communications Technology, the cost of terahertz technology is high and is estimated to increase about $100,000 owing to use of laser and other costly technologies. So, limited penetration of terahertz technology, scattering effect, limited sensitivity and low limit detection are some factors that are challenging the growth of market.
Disruptive technologies in some sectors can face the barriers of customer skepticism and resistance from incumbents already selling into these areas. The cost of the technology is expected to fall over the coming years, owing to the high demand from the market. Thus, the adoption is expected to further grow due to emerging countries looking to upgrade security.
Overall, the technology is expected to see a huge demand in the coming years, in turn, driving the market’s growth. There has been a significant rise in the number of manufacturing companies in the developing countries, creating a huge demand for precise security systems, thus driving the growth of the terahertz technologies market. The increasing awareness about the optoelectronic approaches based on modern laser technologies as well as high-power electronic emitters help the market grow.
Application- Segment Analysis
Industrial NDT segment is the major segment by application for the Terahertz market. This is owing to the properties that this technology has that improve various industrial operations. Terahertz imaging is widely used in aircraft, spacecraft non-destructive testing applications. In aircrafts, exterior is coated with specialty chemicals that are particularly difficult to measure. Terahertz pulses can be used to measure coating thickness once the coating gets dried. Adoption of portable terahertz scanners in aircrafts in providing the necessary information to assemble the airframe in order to ensure that parts are properly aligned is set to drive the terahertz market.
In 2021, terahertz imaging segment accounted for the largest share of the terahertz technology market. Terahertz imaging is a scanning technique that uses extremely high-frequency waves to penetrate dense surfaces. They can pass through clothing, paper, cardboard, wood, masonry, plastics, and ceramics and penetrate fog and clouds. Due to this, terahertz imaging is increasingly being used in application areas such as medical & healthcare.
Satellite communications surge the demand for terahertz communications systems, and the market players are highly focusing on their organic growth to strengthen their terahertz communication portfolio. For instance, in September 2021, ADVANTEST CORPORATION launched a high-frequency resolution option for its TAS7400TS terahertz optical sampling analysis system. The system enables materials characterization for beyond 5G/6G next-generation communications technology and millimeter-wave radar technology. Therefore, these factors are expected to create lucrative opportunities for the growth of terahertz communication system manufacturers in the near future.
Sensor Type – Segment Analysis
Some of the terahertz sesnors include Schottky barrier diode, Golay cell, Micro bolometer, Pyroelectric detector, Broadband antennas, High electron mobility transistor, and Superconductive hot-spot air-bridge bolometer.
Micro Bolometer is analysed to grow at highest rate during the forecast period. Micro bolometers are used as detector in thermal cameras. Micro bolometers detects the terahertz radiation and changes the electrical resistance. The development of terahertz imaging systems based on narrow band micro bolometers sensors and novel diffractive lens are successfully applied for spectroscopic microscopy applications. The narrow band micro bolometer sensors (NBMS) is a sensitive terahertz frequency selective sensor which is widely used nowadays for the development of compact all electronic systems for multispectral terahertz measurements. The terahertz using micro bolometers for sensing applications are the most suitable detectors for terahertz imaging and spectroscopic applications.
Geography – Segment Analysis
Americas dominated the terahertz market in 2019 majorly attributed to the Adoption of this technology, in initial stages. North America, being the largest market for technology-based solutions, is expected to be a strong player in the global economy, especially in the development and implementation of new technologies. Owing to terahertz being a new technology and North America being one of the earliest adopters, the market for this technology is the largest in the region. Increase in the production of helicopters and commercial aircrafts in the United States is also expected to drive the market for terahertz technology in this region. The huge aerospace industry of the United States exports more than 60% of all aerospace production. Also, there is high production and export of terahertz devices from this region for defence sector, further contributing to its dominance.
However, Asia-Pacific region is estimated to be the fastest growing region and will witness a CAGR of 30.34% during the forecast period 2020-2025. Large amount of investments as well as the research are being performed in these countries are resulting in the rapid growth of terahertz technology in this region for the coming years. The number of manufacturing companies is increasing in several developing countries, such as China, India, and Japan, in the region, which is driving the growth of the market in APAC.
The terahertz technology market in Asia Pacific is expected to grow at the highest CAGR ~16.6% during the forecast period, while China in the Asia Pacific region accounted for the largest share of the terahertz technology market in 2021; a similar trend is seen during the forecast period. This growth can be attributed to the expansion of the Chinese economy, as China plans to modernize its economic infrastructure and increase the number of industries. Along with this, Chinese scientists are focusing on developing new technologies based on terahertz technology.
For instance, in January 2022, Chinese scientists developed 6G technology for hypersonic weapons communication and tracking to solve the blackout problems that occur at five times the speed of sound or faster. The laser device can generate continuous electromagnetic waves in the terahertz band that could be used for next-generation communications.
China Unicom has begun research into Terahertz communication, one of the main 6 G technologies. The company, in collaboration with 20 other companies and research organizations, has formed a research organisation, the Millimeter Wave Terahertz Joint Innovation Centre. The research collaboration will create several demonstration projects and establish a dozen or more standards, helping to expand the terahertz market.
Market Landscape
The terahertz technology market is highly competitive and consists of several major players. In terms of market share, few of the major players currently dominate the market. Terahertz market is expected to be dominated by major companies such as
Advantest Corporation, Acal PLC, Advanced Photonix, Inc., ADVANTEST CORPORATION (Japan), Digital Barriers PLC, Luna Innovations (US), TeraView Limited. (UK), TOPTICA Photonics AG (Germany), HÜBNER GmbH & Co. KG (Germany), Menlo Systems (Germany), Microtech Instruments, Terasense Group Inc. (US), Gentec Electro-Optics (Canada), QMC Instruments Ltd. (UK), and TeraVil Ltd. (Lithuania) are some of the key players in the terahertz technology market. These major players with prominent shares in the market are focusing on expanding their customer base across foreign countries. These companies are leveraging on strategic collaborative initiatives to increase their market shares and profitability.
Acal BFi Limited, Advantest Corporation, Teraview limited, Toptica Photonics AG, Terasense Group Inc., Microtech Instrument Inc., Menlo Systems GmbH, HÜBNER GmbH & Co. KG, Luna Innovations Inc., and Insight Product Company are the key companies operating in the medical terahertz technology market.
Product launches, acquisitions, and R&D activities are key strategies adopted by players in the Terahertz market. The companies operating in the market are also acquiring start-ups working on terahertz technologies to strengthen their product capabilities.
TeraView (U.K.) manufactures instruments that provide a reliable and robust source of terahertz light and exploit its properties to characterize a wide range of materials. The company has adopted the expansion approach to grow in the terahertz technology market; for example, in June 2014, the company established its presence in Asia by setting up a new office at Seoul (South Korea) to enhance the service, technical support, and application-specific expertise for its customers and commercial partners in the region. It has marked its presence in the market by launching TPS Spectra 3000, a terahertz imaging and spectroscopy system.
Recent Developments
- In February 2022, Menlo Systems launched YLMO Mid-IR — YLMO Mid-IR is a compact, powerful, and tunable mid-IR fiber laser for broadband spectroscopy applications as well as time-resolved measurements. The device offers broadband spectroscopy applications and time-resolved measurements.
- In November 2021, ADVANTEST CORPORATION acquired R&D Altanova, Inc., a supplier of consumable test interface boards, substrates, and interconnects for high-end applications. With this acquisition, R&D Altanova’s engineering and manufacturing capabilities, customer base, and first-rate technical team will support the expansion of ADVANTEST’s semiconductor test equipment business.
- In October 2021, HÜBNER Photonics acquired VALO Innovations GmbH, a developer and manufacturer of ultrafast fiber laser systems. VALO Innovations’ proprietary fiber laser technology provides short pulse performance for bioimaging, spectroscopy, and micro-machining applications. With this acquisition, HÜBNER will strengthen its product portfolio.
- In October 2021, Menlo Systems announced the opening of a subsidiary in China, Shanghai Menlo Systems Quantum Laser Technology Co., Ltd. This expansion is expected to strengthen the company’s position in the photonics market in China.
- In July 2021, ADVANTEST CORPORATION rebranded its subsidiary in India, w2bi Mobile Technologies Pvt. Ltd. (WMTI), to Advantest India Private Limited (AIN), a wholly owned subsidiary of Advantest America, Inc. under the corporate mantle. The name change will allow ADVANTEST to promote its brand and naming convention across subsidiaries and across the world.
In June 2018, TeraMetrix has launched New Products for the Non-Destructive Testing Market at ECNDT. In February 2019, Advantest Corporation completes the acquisition of semiconductor level test business from Astronics Corporation.
The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities
As with any burgeoning technology, the terahertz market does face challenges. These include the development of cost-effective components, standardization of testing methods, and addressing regulatory concerns related to privacy and safety. However, these challenges also present opportunities for innovation and collaboration across academia, industry, and government bodies.
In conclusion, the terahertz technology market is undergoing a transformative phase, with its growth propelled by the demand for advanced solutions in defense and security applications. Its unique ability to unveil hidden information and provide accurate insights is reshaping the way we approach security measures and military operations. As advancements continue and applications diversify, terahertz technology is poised to revolutionize various industries, making its mark as a powerful and versatile tool in the modern technological landscape.
References and Resources also include:
https://www.industryarc.com/Report/15502/terahertz-technology-market.html
https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/terahertz-technology-market-71182197.html
