Thermal infrared energy is a kind of heat or light which is invisible to the human eye. However, human skin is able to detect the infrared. The web defines thermal infrared as electromagnetic radiations which have wavelengths varying between 3 to 25 micrometers.
Light which originates from a radiant source like the sun or a glowing bulb is visible to our eyes. Similarly, light which is reflected from any other surface can allow us to see objects which do not release their own light. Thermal infrared light is first sent out and then reflected. Any object which retains a temperature above absolute zero emits infrared light. More hotter the temperature, brighter is the infrared light.
Thermal infrared light helps in capturing images and making it visible at day or at night without any kind of external lighting. Thermal infrared can catch moving images and images in dark with accuracy. It can also be used to detect hidden metal or plastic parts which remain undetected normally. Modern technological equipments employing the use of thermal infrared has proved to be beneficial for the security and military services.
Thermal infrared has been used by firefighters to steer through smoke and spot victims as well locate the origin of fire. Building efficiency professionals also use thermal infrared to trace leakage in insulation systems. This technology is also used in thermal imaging cameras.
Thermal infrared technology has benefitted the medical world, military army surveillance and also building science.
