Infrared Cameras and Thermal Imaging Systems

 

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Emissivity

What is Emissivity?

Physics of Emissivity

Affects of Emissivity

Emissivity Examples

Increasing Emissivity

Calculating Emissivity

Emissivity Table

Emissivity Testing

Infrared Theory

Microbolometers

 

 

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Emissivity in the Infrared

Methods of Increasing Emissivity

The surface characteristics of a material determine its emissivity.  To increase a material’s emissivity, it is necessary to increase the emissivity of its surface.  Following are several methods of altering a material's surface to increase its emissivity.  For a given material, one or more of these approaches may be effective.  Choose the method that is easiest to apply/remove and that has minimum affect on the temperature of the material.  Apply coatings, treatments, liquids, tapes, or powders as thin as possible to prevent altering the thermal behavior of the original material.

  • Apply a thin layer of tape

  • Apply a thin layer of paint, lacquer, or other high emissivity coating

  • Apply a thin coating of baby powder or foot powder

  • Apply a thin layer of oil, water, or other high emissivity liquid

  • Apply a surface treatment such as anodizing

  • Roughen the surface (may require substantial roughening)

 

 

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