thermografische

Thermography, also called thermographic imaging, is a non-contact diagnostic method that visualizes the temperature distribution on the surface of objects by detecting infrared radiation they emit. The adjective thermografische (or thermographic) describes anything relating to this technique. An infrared camera captures thermal radiation and converts it into an image, where colors or gray levels correspond to temperature. Accurate temperature measurement requires calibration for emissivity, distance, and atmospheric absorption, since different materials emit infrared radiation differently.

In passive thermography, the object's own heat sources are used and no external energy is applied; in active thermography, an external stimulus such as heat, cooling or light is applied to induce thermal contrasts that reveal hidden features or defects. Modern thermography relies on sensitive detectors, thermal cameras, and software to analyze temperature patterns.

Applications are diverse: building diagnostics for energy loss, moisture, and insulation; electrical and mechanical engineering for monitoring hot spots in circuits, bearings, and welds; process control in manufacturing; medical and veterinary thermography for detecting inflammation or circulatory disorders; research and safety inspections in aviation and energy sectors.

History: The concept dates to the discovery of infrared radiation by William Herschel in the 1800s; practical infrared cameras emerged in the 20th century and have become widespread with digital detectors.

Limitations: Temperature readings can be influenced by surface emissivity, reflectivity, distance, and environmental conditions; thermography provides surface temperatures, not always internal properties, and requires expertise for interpretation.