How Subtera detects CUI

How does Subtera’s technology detect concealed corrosion and moisture?

Carbon steel pipework and process vessels are a similar temperature of the process fluid contained within.

Due to the electrically conductive nature of metals, uncorroded steel is a poor emitter of THz light.

When corrosion occurs, the change in molecular state from carbon steel to iron oxide, enables the iron oxide (corrosion) to radiate THz light at a greater intensity than uncorroded metal. The radiated intensity is dependent on a range of factors including temperature, specific composition, and thickness of the corrosion.

The insulation surrounding the asset is also heated through conduction, and as it is non-electrically conductive, it too radiates THz light; again, in proportion to its temperature, composition, and thickness.

THz light from corrosion and moisture, transmits through the insulation and polymeric cladding, and then it is then measured by Subtera.