Sequestim

Sequestim Ltd started as a joint collaboration between Cardiff University and QMC Instruments Ltd in 2016 to commercialise the next generation of terahertz imaging technology developed by the partners for security screening applications. Our walk-through scanners use space technology to image human body heat. Computer learning (AI) allows the scanner to distinguish between threats and non-threats but without the need for passengers to keep still or remove outer clothing. The scanner combines a number of world-leading technologies. The human body acts as a source of “light” by which the new scanner can see hidden objects which appear as a shadow. This is in contrast with existing scanners which process reflected and scattered radiation from a source within the machine. Sequestim scanners allow passengers to walk normally through security without the need to take off coats and jackets, or to remove personal items such as phones. It can also see inside moving curtain-sided lorries. The detector technology was originally developed to study the most distant astronomical phenomena. Its inventors want to know more about how stars are born from gigantic clouds of gas and dust. The scanner detects millimetre-waves, which are just like the light we see with our eyes, but at more than a thousand times longer wavelength. The ability of the scanner to reveal hidden objects has also attracted interest from Border Force, responsible for the UK’s frontline border control operations at air, sea and rail ports. Images from the new scanner do not show anatomical details so there are no ethical issues. In addition, the Sequestim is designed so that the whole system will operate automatically, and no-one will see the images generated. Finally, the passenger is not exposed to potentially harmful radiation like x-rays.