Shortwave Infrared Thermal Imaging

Applications for the three typical wavebands used in infrared thermal imaging can differ quite significantly. Though sometimes used qualitatively, for example, as optical gas imaging devices, mid-wave (MW) and long-wave (LW) cameras are predominantly advertised as temperature-calibrated instruments for quantitative investigations. In contrast, short-wave (SW), also called near infrared (NIR), cameras, are mostly used for qualitative visualization and their use as temperature calibrated instruments is just one amongst many other potential applications. This chapter discusses a large variety of applications of SW IR imaging including high temperature measurements, reflectography, NIR photography, moisture detection and, e.g., image contrast enhancement.