Emissivity estimation for accurate quantitative thermography

In this paper an emissivity measurement method is proposed; it relies on individual calibration functions, and is based on the spectral response of a specific IR sensor. The reflected temperature is kept constant during the test, and its knowledge is not required. Results of measurements on materials commonly used as emissivity references in quantitative thermography are reported. Computer simulations of indoor and outdoor thermographic inspections show the differentiated influence of emissivity and surroundings temperature on the measurement accuracy. Finally experimental results of absolute and differential temperature measurements are discussed.

► An emissivity method based on individual calibration functions is proposed.
► Results of emissivity tests on reference materials for IR analyses are shown.
► Simulations of indoor and outdoor temperature measurements via IR analysis are made.
► Measurements of temperature and temperature difference via IR thermography are made.
► A high accuracy is reached in measuring temperature difference by IR thermography.