Induced backscattering due to reflecting surfaces in highly scattering media

Abstract Reflecting surfaces embedded in highly scattering media show strongly enhanced scattering in time-resolved backscattering experiments. The reflecting surface manifests itself by a peak in the backscattered intensity at a time corresponding to the position of the surface. This peak is clearly visible even if the direct specular reflection of the surface does not enter the detection system. Monte-Carlo simulations are presented which reproduce the observations and lead to an understanding of the processes causing the visibility of the tilted reflecting surfaces.