Thermal Patterns of Defects

• The presence of cracks and defects changes the thermal properties of materials. Infrared imaging provides unique insights for remote inspection of various objects such as electronic components and artworks where non-contact analysis is more suitable. The correct interpretation of thermal flows can reveal the presence of structural changes within the material and prevent failures.



Detection of Defects in Laser Fibers

• By launching a mid-infrared laser signal in a fiber core and recording its side scattering with a wide spectrum infrared camera, scientists are able to screen optical fibers for defects – an crucial step in the development of high-power infrared lasers. Images courtesy of Université Laval, Quebec, Canada.
  

Plasma Research

• Nuclear fusion represents one of the best alternative for generating electricity in order to meet the future needs for power. Research on high-temperature and high-density plasma is carried out in tokamaks, stellarators, and helical devices. Since plasma can reach temperatures of the order of tens of thousands of degrees, it needs to be contained in a strong magnetic field. High-speed infrared imaging can help to characterize the integrity of the material forming – for example – the divertor and the armor wall during the experiments.