Obtaining spectrally selective images of objects in attenuated total reflection regime in real time in visible and terahertz ranges

Abstract

An imaging attenuated total reflection (ATR) spectrometer for the terahertz range is created for the first time. The spectrometer uses a powerful free-electron laser. Images are recorded with a microbolom-eter detector array as a source of frequency tunable monochromatic radiation. Recording spectrally selective images of dynamic objects at a rate of 20 frames per second in the visible and terahertz ranges is demonstrated. In the terahertz range, images of the interdiffusion of liquids with strongly differing optical constants are obtained. Optimal configurations for the operation of the ATR spectrometer are found. Merits and demerits of the method are considered, as well as ways of improving the quality of image.