The power of near infra-red rays

The rapid and low cost analysis of air, water, vegetation, pork and even Viagra tablets using near infra-red rays were just a few of the topics discussed at a recent meeting in Spain of international scientists, including Charles Sturt University (CSU) Professor Graeme Batten.

The conference in Cordoba, Spain discussed how scientists use near infra-red light (NIR) to analyse the composition of a diverse range of materials. NIR works when infra-red light shines on or through a sample and the energy in the light excites some of the compounds in the sample. Any changes in the light can be measured and used to predict the composition of the sample.

Analysis using NIR is favoured by scientists because it is rapid and accurate, low cost as well as user and environment friendly. Prof. Batten, from the CSU School of Agriculture, was invited to the 11th International Conference on Near Infra-red Spectroscopy to review the ability of NIR to analyse the composition of soil, air, water and vegetation.

"CSU is a world leader in developing near infra-red analyses for soils, crops such as rice and wheat, citrus vines and vegetables," said Prof. Batten. "The analytical industry can thank the cereal industry for recognising and developing the potential of the near infra-red technique to establish the make-up of various materials". Analysis of wheat for its protein content is a common use of near infrared light.

Among the other scientists at the Spanish conference was Dr Bill Foley from the Australian National University, who revealed how the near infra-red technique can predict which trees in a particular area are attractive to koalas.

Spain's Professor Ana Garrido-Varo discussed how she can determine if the famous Iberian pigs were fed acorns by analysing pork at the point of sale.

Among the more novel applications for NIR analysis aired at the conference was the ability to distinguish fake Viagra tablets from tablets which contain the real formula.

The next conference in this series will be held in New Zealand in 2005.

Item provided courtesy of Charles Sturt University