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.
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:
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
- Up to 400 spectra per second
- Captures rapid chemical transitions during production
- Enables immediate feedback for process adjustments
Robust and Integrable Design
- No moving parts for 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
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
- 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
Example List of Materials That Can Be Measured in the Composite Industry
NLIR’s mid-IR spectrometers are designed to handle demanding composite industry applications with precision and speed. For example, spectrometers’ ability to capture spectral data in milliseconds allows real-time monitoring, making the instruments indispensable for fast-paced environments. Traditional FTIR systems, while still used for many off-line and laboratory applications, often struggle with slower acquisition times and their sensitivity to vibrations. NLIR overcomes these limitations by enabling live monitoring in composite production or quality control. Explore a few monitoring applications below.
Choose the Right NLIR Spectrometer for Your Needs
Built for modern workflows, NLIR’s mid-IR spectrometers can be easily integrated into existing industrial setups, enabling continuous inline monitoring and lowering operational costs.
Full-Spectrum Readout at 400 Hz Rate
MIDWAVE Spectrometer
For routine quality control and standard gas monitoring (up to 400 Hz acquisition rate).
Full-Spectrum Readout at 1.4 kHz
Flex BUNDLE Spectrometer
Ideal for rapid dynamic phenomena, turbulent combustion environments, or dynamic-event monitoring
Full-Spectrum Readout at 130 kHz Rate
Edge BUNDLE Spectrometer
Ideal for rapid, dynamic event monitoring requiring maximum speed and sensitivity
Take the Next Step with Inline Mid-Infrared Monitoring
Bringing FTIR-type analysis directly to the production line changes how composite materials are monitored, moving from passive quality control to continuous process insight. NLIR’s mid-infrared spectrometers support inline and in situ measurements of chemical properties, cure states, and material consistency across large surfaces.
If you are exploring how to implement real-time monitoring in your composite production, reach out to us below to discuss your specific application with our team.
