Near-infrared (NIR) and mid-infrared (MIR) spectroscopic techniques for assessing the amount of carbon stock in soils - Critical review and research perspectives

► Near-infrared (NIR) and mid-infrared (MIR) spectrometry were reviewed for C stock measurement. ► We present a comprehensive table comparing NIR and MIR technical and economic performances. ► Performances of NIR calibration models depend on the origin of calibration and validation samples. ► Mass concentration of C could be measured on fresh soil samples by NIR but accuracy is still an issue. ► In-field C stock estimation for Kyoto Protocol requires that bulk density also is measurable by NIR.