Diffuse Reflection of InfraRed

[idz]

Hello, i have a very basic question about reflection of infrared light.

What types of materials will give a diffuse reflection of light in the near IR spectrum (around 850nm)?
Is the original wavelength affected by this reflection?

thx in advance,
michael .

 

[Andy Resnick]

InfraGold is the 'gold standard' (no pun intended). Many types of textured surfaces will produce diffuse scatter in the waveband you are interested in- textured paints, for example.

As long as the scattering is elastic, the scattered wavelength will be the same as the incident wavelength. Simply find out if the material absorbs at your waveband of interest.

 

[astrokreng]

Hello Michael,

Thank you for your question about diffuse reflection of infrared light. Diffuse reflection occurs when light is scattered in different directions upon hitting a rough or irregular surface. This type of reflection is different from specular reflection, which occurs when light is reflected at a specific angle and maintains its original direction.

To answer your question, materials that have a rough or irregular surface, such as paper, cloth, and matte surfaces, will give a diffuse reflection of light in the near IR spectrum (around 850nm). This is because the irregularities on the surface cause the light to be scattered in different directions, resulting in a softer, less intense reflection.

The original wavelength of the infrared light will not be affected by this type of reflection. However, the intensity of the reflected light may be reduced due to the scattering of light in different directions.

I hope this helps answer your question. If you have any further inquiries, please don't hesitate to ask. Best of luck with your research!