UK based firm TeraView and US security firm Smiths Detection have partnered to develop airport and building security scanners.
The detection systems will use Terahertz - an advanced technology used to identify concealed weapons and drugs that eliminates the health risks of x-ray.
"This technology detects multiple threats and will represent a significant leap forward over existing hand-held metal detectors," said Bill Mawer, president of Smiths Detection. "We will develop a commercial product that will strengthen any security checkpoint."
Terahertz light, which lies between microwave and infrared in the electromagnetic spectrum, detects metal, ceramic or plastic weapons. It also allows substances such as explosives to be identified from their characteristics.
