ABSTRACT
Medical applications The physics of near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy are favorable for biological applications, especially for in situ measurements. The low absorptivities inherent in NIR allow the radiation to penetrate deeper, resulting in longer pathlengths. The sources are intense, giving more radiation to work with; detectors are sensitive and nearly noise-free, giving a more precise and accurate spectrum. The detector and lamp provide a sensitivity advantage even at very low light fluxes. These physical realities allow for measurements through tissue, muscle, fat, and body fluids with great precision. Fiber optic probes complete the picture and make NIR spectroscopy a technique adaptable to any lab or clinic.
