A Novel Fingerprint Scanning Method Using Terahertz Imaging

In this work., we propose a high spatial resolution terahertz (THz) imaging setup for fingerprint biometrics. THz waves can penetrate into outer drier layers of the skin allowing subsurface imaging for advanced security biometrics or for diagnosis of diabetic diseases. Due to the short wavelengths and significant penetration depth, THz imaging allows to non-invasively probing the finger skin and can provide images of the underlying tissue traits with high spatial resolution. Additionally., THz waves” ability to penetrate thin., non-conductive materials., allows fingerprint scanning even when protective gear is used (e.g. nitrile gloves). In this paper., the theoretical background of the method are discussed along with the proposed imaging configuration. Finally., in-vivo fingerprint images are presented for the first time., establishing the imaging performance of the proposed setup.