Thermal-wave radar

Abstract

Using matched-filtering principles and linear frequency modulation a powerful photothermal depth-profilometry method is introduced. Unlike FD-PTR, in thermal-wave radar (TWR) the frequency of the optical excitation increases linearly within the chirp period, enabling the method to scan a depth range in a single iteration. Simulations and experimental results suggest a significant improvement in the dynamic range when using TWR instead of conventional PTR. Analytical solutions to the TWR heat diffusion problem for both opaque and transparent solids are provided. © 2010 IOP Publishing Ltd.