Real-time monitoring of composite materials in the mid-infrared
In many manufacturing environments, FTIR-type analysis remains confined to the laboratory, providing only a snapshot of material properties based on isolated samples.
NLIR’s mid-infrared spectrometers bring FTIR-type capabilities directly to the production and QC lines, enabling inline and in situ monitoring of chemical properties across the full surface and throughout the entire process. This approach enhances visibility into material behaviour as it evolves, rather than after production is complete.
Features & Benefits of NLIR's Mid-Infrared Spectrometers
NLIR’s mid-infrared spectrometers are engineered to support demanding composite production environments.
Real-Time Monitoring Performance
- kHz readout
- Captures rapid chemical transient events during production
- Enables immediate feedback for process adjustments
Robust and Integrable Design
- No moving parts provides stability in industrial environments
- Operates at room temperature without external cooling
- Compact and OEM-ready for inline installation
Advanced Mid-IR Spectroscopy Solutions
- Optical bandwidth: 2.0 – 5.0 µm
- Sensitivity of 130k counts/(ms μW)
- Upconverting mid-infrared signals into near-visible wavelengths for improved detection efficiency
Key Capabilities for Real-time Monotoring of Composite Materials
- kHz full-spectrum readout
Non-Contact Reflection Measurements
Plug and Play Design
2.0 – 5.0 µm Optical Bandwidth
High Sensitivity and Resolution
OEM Ready
By enabling inline monitoring of composite materials at production speed, the MIDWAVE Spectrometer reduce downtime and chemical consumption, and supports tighter process control and faster qualification of new material formulations.
MId-infrared measurements of composite materials
Real-Time Monitoring
kHz readout
OEM Ready
No moving parts provides stability in industrial environments
High Sensitivity
130k counts/(ms μW) with non-contact measurements
Excellent Service
Consult with our experienced optical engineers
Comparison: Inline Monitoring vs Lab-Based FTIR
NLIR’s mid-infrared spectrometers offer significant advantages over traditional tools like FTIR systems. Here’s how they compare:
Applications and Use Cases in the Composite Industry
NLIR’s mid-infrared spectrometers are designed to monitor chemical properties directly on the production line. Bringing FTIR-type analysis directly onto the production belt enables continuous tracking of chemical composition, material consistency, moisture content and contamination.
Explore a few application areas in greater details below.
Prepreg and Resin Monitoring
- Monitoring of resin distribution and homogeneity during prepreg production
- Monitoring of resin distribution and homogeneity during prepreg production
- Inline validation of impregnation quality
- Detection of chemical inconsistencies in resin mixtures
- Tracking additive dispersion in real time
Cure Monitoring and Polymerization Tracking
- In situ monitoring of resin cure state during processing
- Tracking of polymerization dynamics in real time
- Optimization of curing cycles for consistency and performance
Large Surface and Continuous Scanning
- Continuous scanning of large composite surfaces
- Detection of thickness inconsistencies across coatings and layers
- Identification of localized defects or variations
- Monitoring during rolling, coating, or layup processes
Coating and Layer Characterization
- Real-time monitoring of coating thickness and uniformity
- Verification of chemical composition during deposition
- Detection of defects or contamination during application
Go to our blogpost about composite analysis to see a list of materials that can be measured in the composite industry.
Monitor composite materials in real time with our REFLECTION Measurement System
Reflection Measurement System
REFLECTION Measurement System
Reflection system that can be tailored to your setup
Reflection Measurement System with NLIR's OEM Spectrometer
OEM Spectrometer
Readout full transmission spectra in milliseconds
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Take the Next Step to Monitor Your Composite Materials
Are you looking to improve composite material inspection beyond visual checks and offline lab measurements?
NLIR’s mid-infrared spectroscopy solutions can help bring composite monitoring directly to the production line. Whether you need to monitor composite material production, or explore inline QA/QC integration, our team can help evaluate the right measurement approach for your application.
If you have a specific composite material monitoring challenge, contact us to discuss your sample, setup, and production requirements.