Near-Infrared Reflectance Spectrometer
Near-infrared (900–1700 nm) reflectance spectroscopy is a non-invasive analytical technique used in the scientific examination of artworks to investigate materials beyond the visible range. In this spectral region, many pigments, binders, and alteration products exhibit characteristic absorption features related to molecular overtones and combination bands. By measuring how light is reflected from a surface across 900–1700 nm, conservators and researchers can gain insights into pigment composition, hydration state, and certain organic materials. NIR reflectance spectroscopy is particularly valuable for differentiating visually similar pigments and for supporting technical art history, condition assessment, and conservation decision-making without sampling.
Table of Contents
Polychromix DTS-1700 NIR Spectrometer
The DTS-1700™ uses a MEMS spatial light modulator featuring a single InGaAs detector. It covers the 930-1690 nm wavelength range and uses the Digital Transform Spectroscopy (DTS™) Technology. Polychromix’s DTS™ Spectrometer uses a grating for spectral dispersion onto the MEMS spatial light modulator. Each spectral region can be modulated on or off and then measured by the system’s single-element InGaAs detector in a timed sequence. The resulting time-varying transform is processed to create a spectrum. The DTS™ technology automatically corrects for stray light.
Features
Spectral Range ~ 930 -1690 nm
Absolute Wavelength Accuracy ±0.6nm fixed temperature (with parabolic fit)
Resolution: Pixel Spacing 8 nm. Optical Resolution 12 nm
Stray Light <0.01% transmission of 10mm water at 1405 nm using Halogen lamp & RGT 850 filter
Dynamic Range 10,000 single acquisition with optimum light levels
Photometric Stability <0.05% over 6 hrs.
Measurement time <10 millisec. per spectral mask,<1 sec. per spectrum.
Download Spectra Databases
Case Studies
Scientific Art Examination – Resources:
Getty Conservation Institute (GCI) – USA
The British Museum – Scientific Research Department – UK
Scientific Research Department – The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, USA
C2RMF (Centre de Recherche et de Restauration des Musées de France) – France
Rijksmuseum – Science Department – Netherlands
