Soil Analysis with NIR Spectroradiometers

Reflectance spectroscopy in the near infrared is a non-destructive tool for evaluating soil properties. Water, carbon, nitrogen, organic matter, and other soil constituents can be measured using a UV/VIS/NIR field spectroradiometer, providing critical information on soil health.

Traditional soil sampling processes are slow and expensive – gathering soil samples, preparing them for analysis, sending them to the lab, and waiting for the data. As concerns about efficient agricultural practices, the effects of climate change, chemical fertilization, erosion, and pollution grow, the availability of field spectrometry for soil science has become increasingly popular. Spectral Evolution field-portable spectroradiometers offer a fast, reliable, and accurate method of characterizing soil and land changes in situ.

Materials have unique spectral signatures defined by reflectance or absorption as a function of wavelength. The spectra of a soil sample may reveal mineral compositions, organic matter, clay content, water, iron, salinity, and particle size distribution if present in the soil. The data collected provides a picture of soil health and fertility to aid in food source management and security, natural resource management, and land conservation
or development.

Spectral Evolution’s UV-Vis-NIR field-portable spectroradiometers are rugged and specifically designed for the challenges of environmental remote sensing. Our NIR spectroradiometers offer the best combination of high resolution and high sensitivity resulting in the most precise spectral data from any field instrument available on the market. The wide variety of accessories & fore optics make our instruments the most versatile spectroradiometers for all types of measurements, including reflectance, radiance, irradiance, & transmittance.