Detection and selective destruction of bacteria colony at THz frequencies

Abstract

In this paper, theoretical investigation has been carried out to determine the usefulness of electromagnetic wave for detection and selective destruction of bacteria colony at THz frequencies. To carry out the investigation, a realistic three dimensional electrical model of bacteria colony has been developed and placed between a pair of dipole antennas designed at THz frequencies. The model is simulated using Finite Difference in Time Domain (FDTD) based in-house numerical code developed with MATLAB. Results obtained from the simulations show that significant electromagnetic energy absorption occurs in the bacteria cell at THz frequencies near their electrical resonance frequencies. THz frequencies are also found suitable for detection of dimensions and density of bacteria cells in a colony, and selectively destroy them.